Did you know that over 50% of people in the United States claim to deal with allergies of some kind on a regular basis? If you notice your allergy problems occurring more when you're in your home, it's probably time to change your HVAC filter.
Knowing when to replace air filters in your HVAC system can not only help you control your allergies, but it can prolong the life of your HVAC system, too. But how do you know when it's time to replace your HVAC filters? And what kind of filters will work best for your home?
In this article, we'll give you the answers to those questions, plus a few more tips that you can use to make the filter-changing process easier. That way you and your loved ones can breathe better and live happier inside of your home.
How Often Should You Change Air Filters?
So, how often should you change your air filters? Well, that depends on a few different variables, as no two houses are the same.
With that in mind, it's worth noting that older houses and houses with pets usually need to have their HVAC filters changed more frequently. Perhaps the best way to tell if your filter needs to be changed is to check it monthly to see if it's dirty or not. That way, if your filter does indeed need to be changed monthly, you'll be able to do so easily.
It's important to note that no HVAC filter should go unchanged for longer than 6 months. So, at worst, you need to be sure to change your filters at least twice a year.
Tips for Changing Air Filters
Looking for a few tips and tricks that you can use to change your air filters? We've got you covered! Below you'll find a few different things that you can do to make the filter-changing process a bit easier for you.
We'll also help you decide if a higher-quality filter is right for you and your home.
Use the Date Trick
Using throwaway filters? Want to make it easier to keep track of when you last changed your filter? Write the date on the side of a new filter right before you install it.
In doing so you'll have a record of when the last time you changed your filter actually was right on the filter inside of your HVAC system. Setting a calendar reminder in your phone for a few months after the date you changed it is also a neat trick you can use to stay on top of things.
Buy Your Filters in Bulk
One of the worst things about having to change your filter is having to actually purchase the filters themselves. This is especially true if your home has more than one filter, as the costs of those filters can add up rather quickly.
A pro tip? Try to buy your filters in bulk if you can, that way you can save a few bucks on each filter. Try to find an HVAC supply store nearby that will sell to you, as it's cheaper to get filters than from local hardware stores.
Clean Your Filter Grilles
While you most likely won't need to do this often, you will notice that your filter grilles need to be cleaned once or twice a year. The best way to do this? Take them down, lay them down on your driveway, and rinse them off with your garden hose.
This takes a bit of effort to do, but it will help cut down on dust, mold, and mildew, which means that it's worth it. And if you think you need a new filter grille for your home, these commercial products are worth investing in, as they'll last longer and are easier to clean.
Invest in Quality Filters
Notice that your filters need to be replaced each month. Worried that dirt and dust are still getting into your HVAC system and into your home? Invest in a higher-quality filter to help better protect you and your family.
This is an even better idea if you or someone in your home has issues with allergies, or even asthma, as there are filters out there that can make breathing in your home easier. Again, your local HVAC supply store is the best place to get these filters, although your HVAC company should be able to recommend some options for you, too.
Make Sure Your Ductwork is Clean
It's worth noting that even a clean filter can't prevent all dirt and debris from entering your home. If you have older ductwork or ductwork that has been damaged, you can have serious issues with the air inside your home as a result.
This is, unfortunately, not a task that you can handle yourself. Your HVAC company should be able to look at your ductwork and let you know if there's any cause for concern or not.
If there is an issue with your ductwork, be sure to correct it ASAP, as putting it off can only lead to bigger problems with your HVAC system down the line.
Need More Help Deciding When to Replace Air Filters?
When to replace air filters in your HVAC system depends on a few different variables. With that in mind, monthly filter checks, to see if your filter needs changing, is a good rule of thumb to follow.
Also, don't forget that other filter options exist should you feel the need to upgrade from disposable ones. Those filters can help make the air in your home easier to breathe, making them worth investing in for many homeowners.
Looking for more ways you can take better care of your home? Check back to our blog often, as we're always giving out useful tips and tricks for homeowners.
