Something’s In the Air (So Change Those Filters!)

Winter months are a great time to refresh your HVAC filters

Air filters are an essential component of your home’s HVAC system. While the benefits of clean air filters may be clear, many homeowners often neglect to change them regularly (life gets busy, we get it!), however, this can lead to poor air quality, higher energy bills, and even system breakdowns. In colder months, we tend to spend more time indoors, especially as the holidays near and large groups gather for festive meals and visits. This makes it even more important to ensure the best air quality possible. Understanding why and when to change your air filters is crucial for maintaining a healthy home and a functioning HVAC system.

First, let’s look at the two main functions of your home’s air filtration system:

1. Air Quality: Air filters capture pollutants like dust, pet dander, pollen, and mold spores, which can significantly affect indoor air quality. In homes with allergy sufferers or people with respiratory conditions like asthma, these particles can exacerbate symptoms. A clean air filter helps to reduce the amount of airborne contaminants, providing fresher and cleaner air to breathe. In addition to allergens, air filters also capture bacteria, viruses, and other microbes, preventing them from circulating through your home.
2. HVAC Efficiency: Your HVAC system works by drawing air into the return ducts, passing it through the air filter, and then distributing the conditioned air back into the home. When the air filter becomes clogged with dirt and debris, the system has to work harder to push air through. This can strain the blower motor, reduce airflow, and decrease system efficiency. A clogged filter forces your system to use more energy, leading to higher utility bills. Over time, the strain on your system can result in costly repairs or even a complete breakdown.

Symptoms that your HVAC system is struggling to perform:

Along with circulating increased allergens and other particles in the air and possibly shortening the lifespan of your HVAC system, there are other issues that can arise:

• Higher Energy Bills: When the air filter is clogged, the HVAC system has to work harder to pull air through the filter and distribute it throughout the house. This added strain on the system causes it to consume more energy, leading to higher electricity or gas bills. In fact, a clogged filter can increase your energy consumption by as much as 15%.
• System Damage: The increased strain on the motor and fan can lead to overheating, while the buildup of dust and debris can clog coils, causing the system to freeze. This can result in the need for expensive repairs or a full replacement of the system.
• Reduced Airflow: A dirty filter restricts airflow, making it harder for the system to distribute air throughout your home.
• Visible Dirt on the Filter: If the filter is visibly dirty, clogged, or covered in dust and debris, it’s time for a change. In most cases, vent covers open easily to inspect your filters and sometimes, built up dust can be visible through the vent grating.
• Strange Noises:  Unusual noises, such as rattling or humming, could be a sign that the air filter is clogged. This can strain the system and lead to further issues if not addressed.

Now, the big question: “How often should I change my air filters?”

The frequency with which you should change your air filter depends on several factors, including the type of filter, the size of your home, the presence of pets, and the local environment.

Here are some of our general guidelines for how often you should change your air filter:

• The Average Standard: For most households, it is recommended to change the air filter every 90 days (3 months). This is a general guideline for standard filters in homes without pets or major air quality issues.
• Homes with Pets: If you have one or more pets, it’s a good idea to change your air filter more frequently, typically every 60 days. Pets shed hair and dander, which can accumulate quickly in the filter, reducing its effectiveness.
• Homes with Allergies or Respiratory Conditions: If someone in your household suffers from allergies or has a respiratory condition like asthma, it’s advisable to change the filter every 30-60 days. This will ensure that allergens such as dust, pollen, and pet dander are consistently removed from the air, helping to improve indoor air quality and alleviate symptoms.
• High-Efficiency Filters: High-efficiency filters, such as HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters, are designed to trap smaller particles and provide cleaner air. These filters last longer than standard filters, typically requiring a change every 6-12 months, depending on usage and the conditions in your home.
• Environmental Factors: If you live in an area with a lot of dust, pollen, or pollution, you may need to replace your air filter more often. Homes near construction sites or with outdoor air quality issues may require more frequent filter changes to maintain air quality inside.
• Seasonal Considerations: If you use your HVAC system seasonally, it may not run continuously. However, it’s still essential to check your filter before and after each season to ensure it’s in good condition. For example, if you use air conditioning in the summer, check your filter before turning it on for the season. Similarly, inspect the filter before turning on the heat during the winter months. Regularly checking your filter before seasonal use can help prevent clogged filters from affecting your system’s efficiency.

Your One Hour Heating and Air professionals can inspect your air filters during seasonal system maintenance checks and provide instruction on how to do it if you are unsure. Changing out HVAC air filters is relatively easy and quick once you know where they are located.

Here’s 6 easy steps to DIY change your HVAC air filters:

1. Turn off the HVAC system: Before replacing the filter, turn off your heating or cooling system to avoid sucking air through the ducts while you’re working.
2. Locate the filter: Find the air filter compartment in your HVAC system. This is usually near the air handler, which may be in your furnace or ductwork.
3. Remove the old filter: Carefully remove the old filter. Be cautious, as dust and debris may fall from the filter.
4. Check the filter size: Make sure the replacement filter matches the size of the old one. The size is typically printed on the side of the filter.
5. Insert the new filter: Place the new filter in the compartment, ensuring it fits snugly and is oriented in the correct direction (usually indicated by arrows on the filter).
6. Turn the system back on: Once the new filter is in place, turn your HVAC system back on.

Changing your air filter is a simple yet crucial task in maintaining a healthy home and efficient HVAC system. By regularly replacing your filters, you ensure that your system operates optimally, your indoor air quality remains high, and you avoid costly repairs. By following the guidelines and paying attention to signs that your filter needs replacement, you can ensure that your home’s air is clean and your HVAC system runs smoothly throughout the year.

Any questions? Give us a call today! Our professionals are your go-to HVAC team in Charlotte and the surrounding area, including Indian Trail, Concord, and Mooresville.
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