A home air filter is an essential part of any home's HVAC system. It helps to keep the air clean and free of pollutants, dust, and other debris. But how often should you change your air filter? The answer depends on several factors, such as the type of filter, the size of your home, and the number of occupants. A 2-fold air filter should be changed every 3 months, while a 3-fold air filter should be changed every 120 days.
A 4-fold air filter should be replaced every 6 months, and a 5- or 6-fold air filter should be changed every 9-12 months. The only way to be sure how often your air filter should be changed is to visually inspect it every month. After a few months, you'll get an idea of how quickly it gets dirty. You'll need to re-evaluate if you have a new pet or if the outdoor air quality has been poor. A pleated air filter should be replaced approximately once every three to six months.
However, the frequency of air filter replacement depends on several important factors, such as your home, occupants, and location. The lifespan and replacement cycle of the boiler and air conditioner filter are affected by outdoor and indoor air quality. External factors, such as excess pollen, nearby construction, or home renovation, can also shorten the lifespan of an air filter. Keeping up with air filter changes is one of the best ways to have a healthy, energy efficient home. Air filters with a MERV index ranging from 17 to 20 are designed for areas that require absolute sterility, such as operating rooms or rooms for immunosuppressed people.
During allergy season, air filters can work overtime to remove allergens, dust, and other debris circulating through the heating and cooling system. For mild to moderate allergies, residents will want to try replacing air filters every 30 days. Numerous pollutants and debris, including excess dust, can cause air filters to become clogged and reduce air circulation throughout the house. Likewise, homes with multiple people will need to replace air filters more often than homes with a single occupant. When you buy a new air filter, check the manufacturer's recommendations for a basic idea of how often you should change it.
Pleated air filters are more expensive at first but they're also more efficient at trapping particles and can last up to 90 days depending on use. In smaller homes, the air conditioning system has to move less air which may mean that air filters are replaced less frequently. In most cases, air filters with a MERV rating equal to or lower than 16 are designed for residential, commercial, and institutional air conditioning systems. The easiest way to find an air filter that's right for your home is to locate the filter that's already installed. Now that you know what role an air filter plays in a home let's look at the benefits of changing them regularly. Some manufacturers recommend replacing them every 30 to 60 or 90 days depending on the type of filter. Regularly changing your home's air filter is essential for maintaining good indoor air quality and energy efficiency.
It helps keep your HVAC system running smoothly and prevents dust buildup in your home. To ensure that your home's HVAC system is running efficiently and effectively it's important to check your filters regularly and replace them when necessary.
