Furnace Filters: How Often Should You Change Them?

Mar 22

The air filter has one job: to filter out dirt, dust, and other contaminants. As it does its job, these sifted elements stay on the filter. If not removed, these could cause problems to your furnace later.

As a furnace owner, you probably have heard people tell you how important it is to replace your furnace filter over time. But how often should you do it? The answer depends on many factors. While there is no definitive answer to that question, this article will tell you the guidelines you should follow to determine the frequency of filter replacement your household needs.

The Furnace Filter Replacement Guideline
Why Change Your Filter?

Regularly changing your filter would bring you the following benefits:

It makes your system more inefficient
Clearing up your filter could help you reduce your energy costs
Regularly changing your filter would also decrease your maintenance costs
You breathe healthy air within the house
It prevents symptoms such as sneezing, dizziness, eye irritation, and other respiratory problems
Your unit would last longer if its filter is replaced regularly

How Often Is Changing Furnace Filters Necessary?

In general, furnace filters should be replaced depending on the thickness of the filter you use. Here is a quick guide for reference:

For one to two inches: Change once every three months
For four inches: Change once every six months
For five inches: Change once every year

How to Know If You Need a Filter Replacement Now

Although guidelines are mentioned above, the frequency you need to replace your furnace filter depends on many factors. If you notice any of these signs, even if you are not yet meeting the recommended number of months, consider replacing your filter immediately.

There is apparent dirt on your filter. When you see that the filter is covered entirely by dust and other contaminants, change your filter soon.
You increased the frequency of your furnace or air conditioner usage.
You start to notice more dust appearing inside your home.
There is a strange smell coming from your unit.

Other Factors That Can Affect the Frequency of Your Filter Replacement

Here are the other factors that could affect your filter replacement schedule:

You Keep Your Windows and Doors Open a Lot

When your house is openly absorbing the dirt and contaminants from the outside, chances are, your filter would get more dirt than it would typically get. Make sure to conduct a regular check on your unit’s filter if you are guilty of this.

You Have Pets at Home

Pets shed their hair and dander every now and then. These can cause a quicker build-up and clog on your HVAC filter. If not addressed immediately, these could block the airflow and make the insides of the system dirty. Consider replacing your filter once every two months if you have a pet at home, regardless of whether they are furry or not. The more pets you have, the more often you should change your filter.

There Are Family Members Who Have Allergies

Dirty filters can trigger allergies and other respiratory problems. Regular replacing your filters can prevent this.

Conclusion

If you want your system to keep functioning as efficiently as possible, always make sure to include filter change in your routine unit care. Aside from replacing it, make sure to have regular tune-up and maintenance for your HVAC system. Doing these steps can help you keep your furnace running as smoothly as possible and avoid any potential problems later.

For your HVAC service needs in Chicago, contact us at Aircor. We are a licensed and insured HVAC service provider who wants every home in Chicago to have fully functioning heating and cooling systems. Whether you need heater installation, repair, or maintenance for residential or commercial areas, we can take care of that for you.