How Often Should You Replace Your AC/HVAC Filter?

Perhaps you’ve noticed it already – a thin layer of dust all over your home. Not only that, but your kids are sniffling so much that it sounds like a broken record around your house. Oh! And you can’t forget how it feels like your HVAC system is in a fight for just a little bit more power to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

So, when was the last time you changed your air filter? It’s been a bit, hasn’t it? Probably a few months back. Or, if you really want to be shocked, open up the spot where the filter is located and take a look at the large layer of dust and hair that’s sitting on top of it. We won’t judge, but we’re here to tell you that if you have to ask yourself when you last changed your filter, it’s probably beyond time to do so.

The good news is that Hickory Sheet Metal Company is here to help demystify how often to change your HVAC filter. Let’s get down to the cold, hard facts.

So, How Often Should You Change Your AC Filter?

If you’re wondering how often to change an AC filter, start with this habit: check it every month.

Many common filters need replacement somewhere within a 30-to-90-day window, although the correct interval depends on the filter and your home. The EPA notes that manufacturers commonly recommend replacement every 60 to 90 days, but heavily soiled filters should be changed sooner.

In other words, the date printed on the package isn’t permission to completely forget about the filter until three months from Tuesday.

Your Home May Need More Frequent HVAC Filter Replacement

Some filters get dirty faster than others. If you have pets, for example, your filter may collect additional hair and dander. Heavy HVAC use also matters. When your system runs frequently during a North Carolina summer, more air passes through the filter, giving it more opportunities to collect debris.

Home renovations, nearby construction, a particularly dusty house, and other indoor-air conditions can also shorten the replacement interval. Carrier recommends considering factors such as pets, system runtime, home conditions, and filter type when determining a replacement schedule.

The calendar is useful. Your eyeballs are better.

What Happens If You Don’t Change the Air Filter?

Eventually, a dirty AC air filter can restrict airflow through your HVAC system. Your equipment then has to work harder to move conditioned air throughout your home. ENERGY STAR warns that dirty filters can increase energy use and contribute to equipment problems or premature failure.

You might also notice weaker airflow from the vents or difficulty keeping rooms comfortable.

Before assuming your air conditioner has decided to retire during the hottest week of July, check the filter. Sometimes the simplest piece of AC troubleshooting starts there.

How Can You Tell When the Filter Is Dirty?

Take the filter out and look at it. If it’s visibly coated with dust and debris, don’t overthink this one. Replace it.

You can make the job easier by keeping replacement filters in the house. Write the installation date on the filter frame, put a recurring reminder on your phone, or tie the inspection to something you already do every month.

Most importantly, use the correct filter size and a filtration level appropriate for your equipment. The EPA recommends using the highest-efficiency filter your system can accommodate, noting that an HVAC professional can help determine what’s appropriate for a particular system.

Make Filter Changes Part of Regular HVAC Maintenance

A clean filter helps, but it doesn’t replace professional maintenance.

Hickory Sheet Metal has provided HVAC services since 1928, and today we provide residential maintenance, repair, and replacement services throughout Hickory and surrounding communities. Our factory-trained technicians can help identify airflow, cooling, heating, and equipment problems that go beyond a dirty filter.

So, change your air filter regularly, give it a quick look every month, and don’t let that little rectangle of pleated material become the hardest-working neglected employee in your house.

And if you’ve replaced the filter but your HVAC system still isn’t keeping you comfortable, give Hickory Sheet Metal a call. We’ll help you figure out what’s going on and get your home comfortable again.