There are several benefits to replacing your HVAC system’s air filter. This simple maintenance task can increase the lifespan of your heating and air conditioning systems while improving your home’s comfort. However, many homeowners still don’t know exactly when to replace HVAC filters.

So, how often should you really be changing your air filters? You can follow a general rule of thumb, but a few factors can also influence how frequently you replace your home’s filters.

The General Rule of Thumb

It’s generally recommended to replace your air filter every 90 days or three months. Believe it or not, your air filter can become clogged and dirty over time so replacing your air filter on a regular basis will help your air conditioner run efficiently.

However, it’s worth noting that different types of air filters, home sizes, and indoor air quality needs can affect how often you should really be changing your air filters. Ask an expert from our team about your home’s specific air filter needs. 

Consider Your Filter Type

When discussing when to replace HVAC filters, you should know that there isn’t a “one size fits all†answer. For example, fiberglass filters will need to be replaced every 30 days, while pleated air filters should be changed at least every 90 days. Why the difference?

When it comes down to it, pleated air filters have a Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values (MERV) rating of five, while fiberglass filters have a MERV rating of one to four. The higher the MERV rating, the more effective the filter is at capturing pollutants in the air. Since pleated filters are of higher quality, they can often last longer than their cheaper counterparts.

Take Your Home’s Size Into Account

The size of your home can have a significant impact on how often you should really be changing your air filters. If you have a larger home, your air conditioner and heating system have to circulate a lot of air in order to keep your family cool. As a result, you will likely need to replace the air filter more frequently in a larger home. If you have a smaller home, you can usually get away with replacing the filter less often.

Of course, how often you use your heating and cooling systems can also impact when to replace HVAC filters. For instance, your air filter will get dirty quicker if you are constantly using your air conditioner during the summer months. If you are trying to create a filter replacement schedule, make sure you consider how often you use your heating and air conditioning unit.

Assess Your Household’s Needs

Every household is unique, which means the air filter in your home will have unique needs, too. If you have allergies or asthma, it’s a good idea to change your air filter on a more frequent basis. If your air filter collects even the smallest amount of pollutants — such as dust, pet dander, and pollen — you can experience worsening allergy or asthma symptoms.

You may also want to consider replacing your HVAC air filter more often if you have pets. Pet hair can easily clog your filters — which can negatively affect your HVAC system’s performance and indoor air quality.

Schedule AC Services With Adon Complete

As you can see, knowing precisely when to replace HVAC filters can be a bit challenging. You’ll need to consider several factors, such as the size of your house and your family’s indoor air quality needs.

Now that you know how often you should really be changing your air filters, you can create a schedule that works for you. Adon Complete Air Conditioning & Heating offers air filter replacements and McKinney HVAC services to help keep your HVAC units running in peak condition.

Our HVAC technicians know how important it is to care for the HVAC system in your home. We are proud to offer various residential heating and cooling services along with our air filter replacements. Contact us to schedule an AC service in McKinney, TX, today!