How Often Should I Replace My Air Filter?

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Most homeowners don’t give much thought to their AC systems if cold air is produced when needed. Much of the routine, preventive AC maintenance is also best left to trained professionals, but there is one proactive thing you can do: Replace its air filter on a regular basis. How often, however, is a “regular” basis? Sure, you don’t want to needlessly cause your system to run inefficiently. Then again, you don’t want to spend any more than you must on high-quality air filters.

Determining How Often I Should Replace My Air Filter

Homeowners frequently ask, “How often should I replace my air filter?” The short answer is: It depends. That’s because you’ll have to answer the questions below to determine the right schedule for you.

While air filters help your AC system run more efficiently and last longer, they also have a direct impact on air quality in your home. If you’re concerned with the larger issue of overall air quality, you should contact your local AC experts for an in-home assessment.

1. What Kind of Filter are You Using?

Depending on the quality of the air filter you’re using, the rate at which you’ll need to change it will vary:

  • Fiberglass: These economy panel filters are what homeowners typically use, but they are not particularly efficient and should be changed every thirty days.
  • Pleated: These filters are up to 60% more efficient than their fiberglass counterparts because they contain significantly more fiber per square inch and can last anywhere from three to six months.
  • Electronic: The most expensive option, this filter is the most efficient in collecting dust and other airborne particles as it utilizes an electric charge as opposed to just fiber. These filters last up to six months.

2. Who Lives in Your Home?

If you live by yourself and have no pets, you can get away with changing your air filter much less often – perhaps every six to twelve months – because less dirt and dust is being moved around. If you have a spouse, children, and pets, however, you may need to change your filter every twenty to thirty days.

3. What is the Air Quality Inside and Outside Your Home?

If you or anyone else living inside your home has allergies, you will need higher quality air which necessitates more frequent filter changes. Or, if you have an indicator of compromised air quality such as an ongoing musty smell, the filter will need to be replaced more often. If you have a vacation home away from cities or highways, filters can be changed less frequently. Living in a dense urban area or near a major roadway will require you change filters every twenty to thirty days.

AC System Maintenance

There’s more to maintaining your AC system than just your answer to the question, “How often should I replace my air filter?” To maximize the efficiency and longevity of your AC, you should invest in a regularly scheduled maintenance program. You can always trust our trained technicians to keep your system running smoothly over the course of its lifespan.

Contact Bell Plumbing and Heating for AC maintenance in Denver today!  

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