How confused are you by your HVAC air filters?
Some say they’re for air quality, yet others say they’re for your HVAC system. Some say they need to be changed every month, others say every other month. Some say a reusable air filter is the same quality as a disposable one.
What’s the truth?
Whether you’re a homeowner or a renter, you need to know about your HVAC filters to keep your central air working right. Read on to learn everything you need to know about how to maintain them.
The Function of HVAC Air Filters
One of the biggest myths about the HVAC filter is that its purpose is to improve your air quality. In reality, its purpose is to preserve the longevity of your A/C unit and the rest of your HVAC equipment.
These filters actually don’t do an enormous amount to minimize the number of particles in the air around you or protect you from inhaling microscopic debris, but they do help.
Studies show that indoor air quality today can actually be incredibly harmful to your health, too. That’s why it’s so important to get it straight that your HVAC filters aren’t completely solving this problem for you.
Get yourself some indoor plants that clean the air!
One Size Fits All?
If you’re new to changing your air filter, you might be unsure what size to purchase. Here’s your first tip: HVAC filters are not one size fits all.
The filters are typically sized according to width. They usually show the size right on the side of the filter. Before you head to the hardware store, check your existing filter for sizing requirements.
How Often Should You Change It?
Just like filter sizes, this question isn’t one size fits all, either. It depends on your lifestyle. Ask yourself a few questions before you determine how often you need to change your HVAC filters.
- Do more than two people live in your home?
- Do you have pets?
- Does anyone smoke indoors?
- Does anyone in your home have allergies?
For each question that you answered “yes” to, you’re going to want to increase the frequency with which you change your air filters. Smoke, pet dander, and skin molecules clog air filters up quickly.
If you answered “yes” to all of the above, you should probably change yours out monthly.
As your air filter becomes clogged, it restricts the airflow in your HVAC system. This strains your air handler, which can cause the system to overheat and burn out. Changing frequently, therefore, increases the life of your HVAC system
Replacing your filter can also lower your AC unit’s energy consumption by as much as 10%. Washable HVAC filters aren’t as effective as disposable ones, either; they’re MERV ratings usually aren’t in the same league!
How’s Your HVAC?
Keeping up with your HVAC air filters is essential for a long and happy life for your HVAC system. How’s yours doing?
Whether you’re a new homeowner, business, or just haven’t had your HVAC system looked at in a while, we can help!
We specialize both in new installations and in service and repair. Get in touch to make an appointment today!