When it comes to air conditioning, one of the most important components is the air filter. It is responsible for trapping particles and keeping your heating and cooling system running at its best. But how often should you change your air filter?Purchasing a pleated air filter may be more expensive initially, but it can be worth the investment. These filters are more efficient at trapping particles and can last up to 90 days, depending on usage.
For instance, a one-inch oven filter should be changed every one to three months. A three- to four-inch filter can last six to nine months, while a five- to six-inch coarse-grained filter can last nine to twelve months. By replacing filters when necessary, you can ensure that your heating and cooling system works optimally and that you have clean air to breathe. It is recommended that the average use of air filters be 20 to 45 days. Any longer period can be detrimental to your health.
If you have pets in the house, it is best to change the air conditioning equipment (we are talking about filter traps, air filters, oven filters, etc.) more frequently as they can lose hair and other particles that can quickly clog filters. Children are more sensitive than adults to indoor air pollutants, such as mold, dust mites, dandruff, and pollen. To create an oasis for them, use quality air filters and change them before they get too clogged and dirty. The MERV rating is a scale that ranges from 1 to 20 and evaluates how well an air filter can remove particulates from the air. Additionally, candles may smell good and help improve the ambiance of any room but they can also cause unhealthy air quality. When the oven filter becomes clogged with contaminants, air cannot circulate properly through the system.
Filters are the medium that cleans the air before it comes into contact with the electrical components inside the system, such as the fan. They also remove dust, pollen, pet hair, and other small particles from the air so you don't breathe them in. For example, in small houses, an oven filter or an air conditioning system is needed to pump less air with the same temperature change as in larger houses where more air will need to be pumped. MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values which indicate the ability of a filter to capture larger particles between 0.3 and 10 microns. Denser filters have several advantages including a longer lifespan and better MERV rating.
As a general rule, lower home occupancy extends the life of the air filter while higher occupancy reduces it. A vacation home where you only live part-time will need far fewer filter changes than a large family home with many occupants. You should change them approximately every 90 days if you don't have allergies but air conditioning professionals usually recommend them every 45 days for maximum efficiency. In conclusion, when it comes to changing your AC air filters, it is important to consider your lifestyle and environment. If you have pets or allergies, it is best to change your filters more frequently than recommended.
By doing so, you will ensure that your heating and cooling system works at its best and that you have clean air to breathe.
