Maintaining a clean air filter is crucial to keeping your HVAC system running efficiently, your energy bills low, and your indoor air healthy. But how do you know the right time to replace it? B & J Refrigeration recommends following these expert guidelines to ensure peak performance and comfort.
Every 90 Days Is the Standard
For most residential HVAC systems using standard 1-inch disposable filters, changing them every 90 days (3 months) is widely recommended. This interval supports optimal efficiency and indoor air quality. However, this timeline can shift if your system runs more frequently or if other household factors impact air quality.
More Frequent Changes May Be Needed
Fiberglass filters, while affordable, trap fewer particles and typically need changing every 30 days. Pleated filters, offering better filtration and surface area, can generally last up to 90 days, though this can vary based on home conditions. If you are unsure which would work better for you, B & J Refrigeration can offer guidance based on your heating and cooling system’s needs.
Adjust Timing Based on Your Home’s Environment
Homes with shedding pets may need filter changes every 60 days or even every 20-45 days, particularly for allergy-sensitive households. For occupants with allergies or respiratory concerns, filters may need replacement every 50 days or as often as monthly. Homes in dusty, windy, urban, or wildfire-prone areas may require monthly filter checks and potential changes.
Use Visual Inspections to Be Sure
Even when following recommended replacement timelines, it’s best to use a monthly visual check as your guide. Hold the filter up to the light. If you can’t see much light coming through or the filter looks dirty, it’s time to replace it, even ahead of schedule. If you’re unsure what a clean filter should look like, our team at B & J Refrigeration can show you the difference between a fresh one and a clogged one.
Why Regular Replacement Matters
Clogged filters restrict airflow, making your HVAC system work harder. This leads to higher energy bills, overheating motors, iced coils, and potential system failure. A fresh filter also traps allergens, dust, and other particles, while a clogged one circulates them into your home, worsening respiratory issues and allergy symptoms.
Seasonal HVAC Usage and Pro Tips
During peak cooling or heating seasons, HVAC systems run more often. Aim for monthly replacements in these periods to reduce strain and maintain air quality. B & J Refrigeration recommends these visual and maintenance checks as part of routine seasonal care, especially as part of twice-yearly professional heating and air tune-ups.
Choosing the Right Filter
Pleated filters with higher MERV ratings (8-13) offer better filtration without excessive pressure on your HVAC system, capturing more allergens and particulates. Avoid HEPA-level density inside your central HVAC unless it’s designed for it. Stick to MERV-13 or lower for most home systems.
Ready to improve your indoor air quality and protect your heating and air conditioning system? Schedule a maintenance visit with B & J Refrigeration. Our experts will help you choose the right filters, inspect your system, and keep your home comfortable and efficient year-round. Contact us for expert HVAC maintenance in Tucson, AZ.
Whether you require installation, repair, or maintenance, our technicians will assist you with top-quality service at any time of the day or night. Take comfort in knowing your indoor air quality is the best it can be with MOE heating & cooling services Ontario's solution for heating, air conditioning, and ventilation that’s cooler than the rest.
Contact us to schedule a visit. Our qualified team of technicians, are always ready to help you and guide you for heating and cooling issues. Weather you want to replace an old furnace or install a brand new air conditioner, we are here to help you. Our main office is at Kitchener but we can service most of Ontario's cities
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