Your HVAC system in Mineral, VA contains a filter that traps particulate matter. By removing it from your heating and cooling system, this can protect the inner components of your HVAC equipment. Also, this is a great way to improve your indoor air quality (IAQ). When you’re frequently exposed to things like pet dander, dust, mold spores, pollen, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), this can increase allergy symptoms, asthma attacks, and other health issues. Let’s look at how often you need to change your HVAC filters.
Frequency Based on Filter Recommendations
Most filters will come with a recommendation for how often you should replace them. This advice is often based on factors such as the type of material used, the filter’s density, etc. If you neglect to follow these guidelines, you may need more frequent HVAC repairs, and your IAQ may decrease. Most filters should be changed once every 30 to 90 days.
There are more expensive filters that can last closer to 6 to 12 months. There are also reusable filters that you remove from your system, wash, let dry, and then place back in your system. The downside to these washable filters is that they aren’t always the best option for people with allergies. Some particulates can remain in the pores of the filter, causing your symptoms to flare.
Consider Your Indoor Environment
You’ll also want to consider the different factors that impact your filter from a lifestyle perspective. Homes with pets benefit from more frequent filter changes. If you live in an area where there is a lot of pollution, it can also be wise to change your filters more often. Running your heating and cooling equipment frequently can also impact the need for filter changes. Other factors include people smoking in your home, frequent cooking, allergies, and how often you run your HVAC system.
Considering Other Filters
Aside from the typical filter that is in your HVAC system, you may have other filters to monitor and change. For example, a whole-house purification unit may utilize one or more filters to remove additional particulate matter from your home. These filters can last anywhere from one month to several months. There are some types of equipment, such as electrostatic filtration devices, that do not use filters at all. They have electronically charged collection plates that should be removed from the unit, cleaned, and replaced.
Evaluating Your HVAC Filter
If you’re unsure how long it’s been since you last changed your furnace filter, there are some things you can do to check its condition. Pull the filter out, and inspect it for any buildup of debris. A dirty or clogged filter will accumulate particles in a way that’s visible to the naked eye. You may notice that the filter is no longer clean and white. If it’s dirty, it will be gray or brown. Light can pass through a clean filter. Hold your filter up to the light to see how dirty it is.
You also need to inspect your filter for any signs of damage. Swap it out with a new one if you notice that the filter is bent, torn, or damaged in any way. This damage can compromise the filter’s ability to properly filter particulate matter. If your house appears to be getting dustier in a shorter of amount of time lately, it could be the result of a dirty filter.
We’re Here to Help
If you would like to learn more about changing the filter in your HVAC system, reach out to the team here at Air Nerds. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have. We can also provide the installation, repair, and maintenance of different heating and cooling systems. We perform indoor air quality services like IAQ assessments and the installation of whole-house filtration equipment. We can clean your ductwork and upgrade your thermostat, too.
Contact Air Nerds today to schedule an appointment!
