Don’t Underestimate The Value Of Changing HVAC Filters

The upkeep of your HVAC system’s filter is very important but easy to neglect. Changing HVAC filters regularly not only helps remove contaminants from the air and raise indoor air quality, but also greatly improves your system’s performance and helps you save energy.

How often should you consider changing HVAC filters? A lot of it depends on the type of filter you have, as well as your household’s lifestyle. Older models of filters, and often the ones that come standard in a new HVAC system, clog more quickly and should be replaced more often. They’re also only able to remove larger particles from the air and can be ineffective against smaller and more harmful contaminants. Things like mold spores, pollen and bacteria, which can cause allergies and other illnesses, will pass right through these filters.

When you’re changing HVAC filters, you’d do better to upgrade as well. Many newer filter models are more efficient, using an electrostatic charge to attract and trap much smaller particles and greatly improving your indoor air quality. These filters should be checked every three months and replaced when the filter looks dirty. While these filters are more efficient, however, it’s also more important that you don’t neglect to change them. They restrict airflow much more when clogged, wasting energy and preventing your home from being heated or cooled effectively.

There are also mesh filters that can be washed or vacuumed and reused. While these filters don’t have the efficiency of one with an electrostatic charge, upkeep is easier and more cost-effective.

If you have multiple indoor pets or someone in your household smokes indoors, your filter may become clogged more quickly. It’s a good idea to check your filter every month. If it appears dark and dirty, it’s time to change it.

For more tips on improving indoor air quality by changing HVAC filters, contact our experts at Sobieski Services.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Wilmington, Delaware and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC & plumbing systems).

Image Credit: Mariano Kamp