When Should I Change My HVAC Air Filters?

Being a homeowner takes some work to ensure your home is in good repair. One simple yet crucial bit of home upkeep will help you breathe easily — changing your home’s HVAC air filters.

Generally, you should change standard 1-inch air filters every 90 days or three months.

Why Do I Need to Change My Air Filters?

Your HVAC system impacts your home’s comfort and air quality, and central to this system are the air filters, which trap dust, pollen, pet dander, and other airborne particles, preventing them from circulating throughout your home.

Think of your air filter as your indoor air quality’s first line of defense. Clogged or dirty filters prevent the filters from doing their job.

How Air Filters Affect HVAC Operation in Summer & Winter

Your filters have a higher airflow volume during peak seasons when your system works hard to cool or heat your home.

Check your air filters’ status halfway through summer and winter to determine if they need a mid-season replacement.

Factors That Affect How Often You Need to Change Your Air Filters

If any of these factors affect your home, you should check your air filters monthly and change them as needed:

1. You have pets: Pet dander and shedding hair can become airborne and circulate through the home. Your filter helps draw them out of the air, but dander and hair will clog your filter more quickly than household dust.
2. You smoke indoors: We advise against smoking indoors because it can have adverse health effects on your HVAC system and everyone in your home.
3. You live near a construction zone: Outdoor dust can make its way into your home and pollute your indoor air quality.
4. You have family members who have allergies or other health issues: Clean air filters will help to keep the indoor air quality at its best.
5. You use your fireplace often: Wood-burning and gas fireplaces release emissions every time you use your fireplace. Small particles from fireplace smoke can quickly clog your filters.

You should immediately change your filter if it’s bent, damp, or moldy.

Request HVAC Maintenance From Len The Plumber Heating & Air

In addition to inspecting your filters, a trained technician needs to inspect your HVAC unit annually. It allows them to quickly evaluate and address any issues with your system.

Len The Plumber Heating & Air is dedicated to keeping your HVAC system in peak condition. Let our expert staff maintain your air conditioner and heating system to ensure it runs at peak performance.

If your system breaks down or has a major malfunction, you can count on our team for your 24/7 emergency heating and AC repairs.

Call Len The Plumber Heating & Air now to request same day HVAC services in the Baltimore area.