How Often to Change HVAC Filters: Seasonal Maintenance Guide

Your HVAC system keeps you warm and cool as per the season, and maintaining it properly is a prerequisite. Proper HVAC installation is extremely important to avoid long-term defects. Air filters situated inside the air handler trap pollutants, which helps to keep your system clean and improve the air quality inside your home.

The U.S. Department of Energy mentions that you must change a dirty, clogged filter with a clean one to improve energy efficiency by 15 %. Whether you have just finished a new HVAC installation or are planning to hire an HVAC company in Monroe, NJ, seasonal filter changes can go a long way in purifying your air and stopping unexpected breakdowns.

Why Should You Change or Replace Your Air Filters?

Air filters serve more than one purpose; they help to remove dirt, keep your room clean, prevent HVAC damage, and maintain consistent comfort. When you ignore filter replacement, it can lead to excessive repairs, high energy bills, and poor air circulation.

• Promote Better Air Quality – The main task of air filters is to circulate clean air throughout your home or business. Air filters help to trap dirt and pollen and prevent them from floating in the air. So, replacing air filters from time to time with a premium HVAC company in Freehold, NJ reduces the risk to your health. 
• Prolong the Life of Your Unit – Your HVAC system will thank you for replacing or cleaning your filters. When the air filters are clogged, your unit works overtime, leading to inefficient air filtration. So, when you inspect and maintain air filters, it extends the life of your HVAC unit.
• Lower the Frequency of Technician Visits – Maintenance is a proactive step that can prevent frequent collapse of your HVAC unit. So, go for a seasonal or annual maintenance with an HVAC company in NJ, who will take care of your entire unit, including air filters, and keep them completely clean and clog-free. 
• Helps to Control Temperature – Changing the air filters promotes home heating efficiency. A report by TrueBlue states that a clogged filter can increase energy consumption, which testifies to the importance of regular inspections.

How to Understand That Air Filters Need Replacement?

Commercial HVACs especially take a lot of beating. When maintenance doesn’t work longer, replacement remains the only alternative. Recognizing the warning signs listed below can prevent your system from shutting off unexpectedly.

• Easy to spot dirt, dust, or discoloration on the filter

Dirty air filters look discolored and darkened and can easily trap new particles, reducing airflow. It is no longer effective and time for replacement.

• Worsening of Allergy Symptoms

Clogged air filters fail to stop pollen, dander, and dust particles. This worsens the allergy or asthma symptoms, especially for children inside your home.

• Spike in energy bills

Block filter means hard-working HVAC. It strains to push cool air inside your home. So, it doubles up energy costs, reflecting a hike in your monthly bills. 

• Airflow from vents remains inconsistent

When you see that one room cools or heats up more than the other, your filters are clogged. The restricted airflow stops air from circulating evenly.

• Unusual Smells from your HVAC

Unusual smells like burning, must, and dusty odors mean your filter is due for replacement. Consistent odors coming from your HVAC are a sign of trapped particles and improper air circulation.

How to choose the right filters for your HVAC?

“ In recent years, comparative risk studies performed by EPA’s Science Advisory Board (SAB) have consistently ranked indoor air pollution among the top five environmental risks to public health.” 

This study shows the importance of air purification in preventing health issues. If you connect with a reputable HVC company in Monroe, NJ, they can help you understand the type of filters required for your unit.

• Check the MERV Ratings – Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rates of different air filters in capturing dust and debris. The scale goes from one to 20, where higher numbers indicate improved filtration. If you suffer from asthma or have four-legged friends, choose a filter with a higher MERV rating. Also, check your system’s capability to handle the filter type you are choosing. 
• Choose Pleated filters – Fiberglass filters require frequent replacing, while pleated filters cover a greater surface area to trap dust and last longer. It makes them a more cost-effective choice for most homes.
• Use HEPA Filters for Better Protection – High-Efficiency Particulate Air HEPA filters capture up to 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. They are ideal for families with asthma, allergies, or other respiratory concerns, provided your HVAC system supports them. 
• Follow the System Manual – Each HVAC system comes with its own filter type. Besides, the user manual also contains the usual replacement intervals. According to the magazine Consumer Reports, most disposable air filters last between three and twelve months. However, if you are not sure, connect with an HVAC company in Monroe, NJ for a better understanding. 
• Reusable Filters Also Work Fine – Reusable filters can be washed, cleaned, and inserted to reduce energy wastage and save money. However, if you want to use them effectively, clean them frequently. 

Final Thoughts

Blueair survey reveals 45% of Americans have not taken steps to improve home air quality. Changing your HVAC filters ensures a clean, healthy, and comfortable home. It also reduces energy bills and saves you money. Choosing the right filtration for your HVAC also goes a long way in ensuring clean air. Consistent maintenance also avoids sudden breakdowns to your systems when you need them the most.

If you’re searching for a reliable HVAC company in Monroe, NJ, trust Aircare heating & Cooling . Our professional technicians ensure peak performance from your system and put your comfort first. Breathe cleaner air and keep diseases at bay by contacting our trained staff today.