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In our world of video tutorials and DIY shows, homeowners are looking for ways they can be involved in the home maintenance process. Air filters are our favorite HVAC component to talk about because they’re an easy way for a homeowner to be proactive about home maintenance. With a lot of homeowners looking for DIY solutions to things that should only be left to professionals, an air filter is something they can certainly replace on their own.
However, knowing how often an air filter should be replaced is a bit tricky. There are several factors to consider when determining how often to change your air filter. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have questions about air filter replacement or need to schedule Bozeman HVAC service.
How Often Should I Change My Air Filter?
Generally speaking, air filters should be replaced every 1-3 months. While this is a good rule of thumb to follow, this answer can change based on certain factors such as:
- If you have indoor pets and how many
- How many people live in the home
- If you have household members with allergies or respiratory conditions
- If you reside in your home part-time
- The age of your HVAC system and equipment
- The type of filters you use
It makes sense that the more you use your home, and the more people and pets live in your home, the more you need to change your air filter. A family of eight with 5 pets will obviously need to replace their air filter much more often than a family of 2 with no pets. Let’s take a look at a couple of these in more detail.
Pets In the Home
If you have pets in the home, you should consider changing your filter more often. Pet fur and dander can clog your air filter and reduce its effectiveness. For each shedding dog you have, replace the filter a month sooner than you would in a home with no pets. The same applies to cats, although they usually do not shed as much as dogs. Also, dogs tend to shed more in the spring and fall so you might find that you need to replace your air filter after the “shedding season” is over.
If you’re still not sure how often to change it because of pets, let your indoor air quality determine it for you. If you find your allergies to pet hair and dander are worse than usual, check the air filter, look for dirt and clogs, and decide if it’s time for it to be replaced.
Family Members with Health Conditions
If you have people living in your home who suffer from allergies, respiratory conditions, or who are immunocompromised, we recommend changing your filter every 20-45 days, or monthly. Air filters capture and trap dust, pollen, mold spores, and other allergens in your home’s air. The last thing you want is for those things to be floating around inside your home, especially when you have family members who suffer from allergies, respiratory conditions, or who are immunocompromised.
If you’re having problems replacing your filter, you’re not the only one. Contact Ambient Air Solutions today for professional assistance. Simplifying Heating & Cooling!