How Often Should Air Filters Be Replaced?
Did you know that the average person takes about 20,000 breaths per day?
You probably take at least half of these breaths inside your house or apartment — even more, if you work from home. And just like you don’t consciously think about breathing, you might not think about your home’s air quality.
When was the last time you thought about replacing your air filters? How often should you change your home air filters anyway? Keep reading as we discuss this important (but often overlooked) topic.
Factors That Affect Home Air Quality
As a general rule of thumb, you should be replacing air filters every 30-90 days. However, the ideal amount of time depends on a number of different factors.
The Size of Your Home
The larger your home, the more air gets circulated through your HVAC system. The air filters in larger homes tend to get dirtier faster and need replacing more often than air filters in apartments or small houses.
Pets & Allergies
We love our pets, but they release fur and dander into our home’s atmosphere. They also track in dirt, pollen, and other contaminants from the outside. If you’re prone to allergies or you have multiple pets, you’ll want to replace your air filters more often.
Outdoor Air Quality
If you live in the country and the air is relatively clean, you can go longer without replacing air filters. On the other hand, if you live in a big city or an area with heavy air pollution, you’ll need new filters more frequently.
Time of Year
In most areas, you use your HVAC system less during the spring and autumn months. When you’re heating and cooling your home during the summer and winter months, you’ll want to change your air filters often.
How to Change Your Air Filters
When you call for AC repair, no doubt the technician will install new air filters. But what if your HVAC system is working fine and you only need to replace the filters?
In most cases, you can do this yourself.
First, turn off the AC unit or shut down the system at the circuit breaker. Then locate the filter, which is usually either in a return duct or the air handler located in a basement, attic, or utility closet. Remove the cover or grille so you can access the filter.
Check to see if you have a fiberglass or a pleated air filter and take note of its size (usually printed on the side). You may also see the manufacturer’s recommendations for when to replace it. Buy a replacement filter that’s the same shape, size, and type or, if you already have one, install it and replace the cover.
Is It Time for New Air Filters?
If it’s been a while since you thought about your home’s air quality, it’s time to inspect your air filters. Use the information above to determine if and when to install new air filters in your home!
Changing air filters isn’t the only topic we’re discussing today. Keep browsing our site for more helpful home and lifestyle advice.
