When To Change Your Air Filter
How often should you change your air filter? Air filters work around-the-clock to keep pollutants out, so you can stay cool. One of the most important things you can do to keep your AC system running fluently and efficiently is to change your filter regularly.
But, just how often do you really need to change it? The short answer is, “It depends.” Here are a few considerations to help you in determining a proper schedule.
Pets In Your Home
Our pets are family, there’s no doubt about it. However, pets can bring in excess dander, hair, and dirt which builds up on your filter.
If you have a pet that sheds a significant amount of fur or tends to track excessive dirt inside, consider replacing, or swapping out replaceable filters, every 30 days.
Type Of Air Filter
There are a variety of air filters from which to choose. Air filters differ in size and efficiency. Some filters are reusable, designed to last for months at a time. Others need to be replaced more often. MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) is the standard method for comparing the efficiency of an air filter. The higher the rating, the more successful it is at catching particles.
Do you or any of your family members suffer from allergies? if so, it is best to change your filter at least once a month. High Energy Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are designed to block very small particles, to help your air stay cleaner. If you’re unsure which air filter is the right choice for your home, call our office for assistance, 239-693-9005
AC System Use
As a SW Florida snowbird, you may only reside in your home for the winter months. South Floridians love the winter when you can open windows and enjoy the cool tropical breeze.
If this is the case, you may not operate your AC as often, meaning you can get away with replacing or changing your filter about every 3 months. For those of us here year-round, we need to be extra diligent about replacing our air filters regularly. We recommend once a month during the summer.
Home Air Quality
Do you have smokers in your family? Or, perhaps you enjoy the ambience of burning scented candles? If so, you will want to change your filter more often. Without proper filtration, oil-based candles can cause a significant problem throughout your home as a result of the soot they emit. Be diligent with your filter changes when using these types of products.
In conclusion, changing your air filter is one of the easiest ways to preserve your air conditioning system and avoid challenges down the road. In addition, be sure to maintain your AC equipment on a regular basis, to keep it running proficiently for years to come.
Our goal is to educate you and help keep your AC equipment operating smoothly and efficiently. Call us for more information, 239-693-9005
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