During the hot summer months, there’s nothing more refreshing than blasting the air conditioning inside your home. The same can be said during the winter; there’s no better feeling than cranking up the heat when the weather is frightful.
Believe it or not, your HVAC system wouldn’t be able to heat and cool your home as it does without an air filter. Although this air filter is small, it’s certainly mighty and can play a significant role in your comfort. Because of its importance, many HVAC experts recommend replacing the air filter regularly.
Some homeowners don’t know when to change HVAC filters, and that’s okay. It’s never too late to learn!
Let’s go over some of the signs it’s time to replace your HVAC filter.
What Is an HVAC Air Filter?
When air passes through an HVAC air filter, the filter’s main responsibility is to trap any dust and debris it comes across. These filters can also trap pet hair, pollen, mold spores, and more.
Most HVAC experts recommend replacing the filter once every 90 days. However, this is only a general rule of thumb. For example, the filter type can influence how often you replace it. You’ll want to change pleated air filters once every 60 days or so, while you should replace fiberglass filters every 30 days. If you have a smaller home or live without pets, you might also be able to get away with replacing the filter less frequently.
As you can see, it can be a little confusing to know when to change HVAC filters. Every circumstance has different requirements.
Sure, there are general rules to follow, but how do you know it’s time to replace the air filter in your home? Keep an eye out for these red flags.
Visible Dust Buildup
Have you noticed excessive amounts of dust inside your home? Is dust starting to collect around your vents? Whatever the case, it’s important to know that this is one of the top signs it’s time to replace your HVAC filter.
When the air filter becomes dirty or clogged, it’ll no longer be able to trap airborne contaminants lingering in the air. This is a cause for concern, as these contaminants can end up entering your home instead of getting filtered out.
High Energy Bills
Knowing when to change HVAC filters can be challenging, but sometimes all it takes is a quick glance at your electric bills. A dirty air filter could be to blame if your energy costs have steadily risen over the last few months. In fact, this is one of the most overlooked but common signs it’s time to replace your HVAC filter.
A dirty air filter can block the flow of air coming and going from your HVAC system. As a result, your air conditioner or furnace will have to work harder to meet your heating or cooling needs.
When your HVAC system has to work twice as hard, this can lead to excessive wear and tear — as well as higher energy costs. You might find yourself shelling out extra funds for your utility bills alongside a furnace repair in Montgomery County, PA.
Worsening Allergy Symptoms
Are your allergies acting up? Although you might be tempted to blame the weather or your furry friend, you should know that this is one of the top signs it’s time to replace your HVAC filter.
Your HVAC system’s air filter has one job: to stop harmful airborne particles from entering your home. If you have a dirty air filter, these particles can easily enter your living spaces and negatively affect indoor air quality.
Keep an eye on your family, and see if they exhibit allergy symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, and watery eyes. If so, you might want to replace the air filter much sooner than later.
Choose Dilling for Your Heating & Cooling Needs!
It’s not always easy to know when to change HVAC filters. Hopefully, this guide has taught you warning signs to look out for and will remind you to replace the air filter regularly.
It’s incredibly important to keep up with the needs of your heating and cooling systems, especially if you rely on them for your comfort. Fortunately, Dilling Heating & Cooling makes it easy to maintain your HVAC systems!
During an HVAC maintenance service, we’ll replace the AC filter or furnace filter, as well as perform various tests, cleanings, and inspections. Maintenance services help ensure that your heating and cooling systems will be able to work when you need them most.
Contact us today to learn more about our heating services in Bucks County, PA, and beyond!
