How Often Do You Need to Change Your HVAC Filter?

It’s an important question every property owner must ask: How often do you need to change your HVAC filter in Central Kansas, and what contributes to needing to change it? The answer is fairly straightforward, although there are some factors that can affect the frequency. Here’s what you need to know.

Type of HVAC filter

It’s important to understand the various types of air filters available for use in an HVAC system. The type you choose will greatly affect how often you should change the filter. A standard one- to three-inch filter typically lasts 30 to 60 days. However, even this number can change if other factors are present in the home. Keep reading to learn about these varied conditions.

Indoor air quality

Consider the air quality inside your home. Are there any smokers in the house? Are there other pollutants that might affect the quality of the air, such as heavy traffic nearby? If so, you may need to change your filter more frequently or use a specialized filter suitable to these conditions.

Personal allergens

If anyone in the home suffers from allergies, you may need to replace the filter more often. A typical filter that would otherwise last one to two months might need to be replaced every three weeks. You may also want to consider using a special allergen filter.

Furry family members

Do you have pets in the home? What kind and how many? Some dogs are hypoallergenic, meaning they do not shed dander and may have little effect on your HVAC filter. However, multiple pets or certain types of high-shed pets can cause your filter to clog quickly. Consult with your HVAC technician to confirm the appropriate frequency of filter changes for your system. Typically, if you have one pet, the filter will need to be changed at least every 60 days. For two or more pets, this might need to increase to as often as every 20 days.

Total family members

Consider how many people live in your home. A single person may only need to change their HVAC filter once per year. However, if your home is filled with a large family, you should change the filter more frequently, as often as once every three weeks.

Monthly and seasonal checks

A good rule of thumb is to check your air filter each month to see if it needs to be replaced. If it is dirty, replace it. To help you remember to perform this check, do so each time you pay your mortgage or rent. You should also schedule a professional tune-up of the entire system once each fall and spring.

Call for backup

For more information on how often you need to change your HVAC filter and what contributes to the need to do so in Central Kansas, contact the experts at KVK Inc. We have been the area’s go-to source for HVAC maintenance since 1996. Our experienced technicians specialize in a full range of HVAC installation, maintenance and repair services. Reach us today at 785-257-3224 with any questions or to schedule your next seasonal tune-up.

Categorised in: HVAC service, Indoor Air Quality

This post was written by Writer