An air filter is a vital piece of your HVAC system. The air filter is intended to protect your system components from dust and other debris that is circulated through the air when you run it. A dirty air filter negatively affects your HVAC system, as the buildup of dirt and debris eventually could pollute the entire system. This leads to extra repairs, service and parts you may have been able to avoid by changing your air filter. Replacing your air filter regularly is an easy, inexpensive way to extend the life of your system and help improve your indoor air quality.
So How Often Should I Change My Air Filter?
This will depend on a few factors. Filter type, heating system location, and environmental factors all play a role in how often your filter should be changed out. In general, standard disposable polyester or pleated air filters should at least be checked every 3 months, if not sooner. However, you may want to check it more frequently if your home experiences significant environmental factors such as pet hair, heavy foot traffic, and/or tobacco smoke.
You should be able to go 6 months to a year between changes for a high efficiency air filter, provided you are checking it regularly. Efficiency is determined by the air filter’s MERV rating, or Maximum Efficiency Reporting Value. This is an industry standard rating to let consumers know how well an air filter cleans the air passing through it. The higher the MERV rating, the smaller the particle it can grab. Changing your air filter will help your system run more efficiently, and is vital to your indoor environment.
During your HVAC maintenance appointment in Bolingbrook, IL, your HVAC technician will check your air filter and all other components. Contact DuAll Heating & Cooling today to make an appointment today!
