Is It Time To Replace the Air Filter?
Every heating and cooling system has an air filter. The air filter is usually located right inside the blower compartment, where the return air enters the furnace, or on the intake side of the air handler. Air filters are commonly rectangular, with a cardboard frame filled with spun fiberglass or pleated cloth. They come in a variety of sizes and qualities.
Those unfamiliar with their home's air filter should consult the owner's manual for the furnace or air conditioner for safety procedures and cleaning instructions. Here, homeowners will learn general tips on how to know when it's time to change the air filter, the benefits of changing the air filter, and how often they should do so.
Signs It's Time To Change the HVAC Air Filter
Routinely changing the air filter will keep the HVAC system healthy and working properly for many years. If the filter has not been changed in a long time, homeowners may start to notice these symptoms:
- Dusty or dirty air blowing from the vents
- The air filter looks dirty
- Strange noises from the motor, which could be the result of an accumulation of debris
- HVAC system frequently turns on or off
- HVAC system struggles to keep the house at a designated temperature
- Unit overheats and blows hot air
- Increased electric or fuel bills
Most of these symptoms indicate the air filter is way overdue to be changed, and the system could also benefit from inspection and tune-up. For those unsure how long the current air filter has been in place, change it anyway. Most air filters are inexpensive, and the benefits of replacing it save money in the long run.
The Benefits of Routine Filter Replacement
A good way to keep track of how often to change the HVAC air filter is to record the due date on a calendar. Having a visual alert will prompt homeowners to remember to change it. They should also use a black marker to write the installation date on the cardboard frame of the filter every time a new one is put in. This will eliminate any future doubt about how long it has been since it was replaced.
Routinely changing the HVAC air filter has many benefits, mainly:
- Improved air quality: Replacing the air filter reduces the amount of dust and allergens in the home, benefiting those with allergies or asthma and improving sleep.
- Increased unit longevity: The air filter also protects the inside of the heating and cooling unit; when the filters are dirty, dust and debris accumulate on the motor, blower fan, and evaporator coil, requiring costly cleaning and repair.
- Lower utility bills: When the air filters are clean, the HVAC system does not have to work as hard to push air. This results in lower fuel and electric usage, thus lower bills.
- Prevents expensive repairs: Dirty filters make the unit work much harder, causing the parts inside to fail sooner. An HVAC breakdown can be avoided entirely by simply changing the air filter routinely.
- Protects the air ducts: When the air filter fails to contain dust and debris, that dust and debris usually ends up settling in air ducts. This reduces air quality and provides a breeding ground for mold and mildew.
How Often Should the Air Filter Be Changed
How often homeowners need to replace their air filter depends on the quality of the filter they use. Most filters have the MERV rating and recommended time period printed right on the cardboard frame.
The MERV rating, which stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, measures how effective the filter is at filtering particles. The higher the MERV rating is, the more effective the filter will be. Higher rated filters can filter out a wider range of particles, including viruses and bacteria, smoke and smog, pet dander, pollen, dust mites, and mold. The more basic filters are only rated for dust and pollen.
Filters made from spun fiberglass usually have a very low MERV rating and should be replaced every thirty days. These filters are the cheapest, but they are less effective at filtering small particles and often need to be replaced.
Pleated cloth filters can last as long as ninety days. This style usually offers a higher MERV rating and is most effective at filtering pollutants. They may be more expensive, but they are long-lasting and do more to protect the health and HVAC system.
A licensed HVAC technician can provide an HVAC system tune-up, which usually includes replacing the air filter. They will be happy to discuss which type of filter will work best.
Trust the Pros at Barker Heating & Cooling
Barker Heating & Cooling has been providing Bay Area residents with dependable heating, cooling, and air quality services since 1998. The professionals at Barker Heating & Cooling are always on time and never overcharge or underachieve. As a family-owned company, they are proud to offer each customer the "Red Carpet Treatment"!
