The Best Practices for Air Filter Replacement 

Air filters are an absolutely essential part of the home’s HVAC system. They maintain indoor air quality, reduce the potential for allergy and asthma-related health issues, and just generally help increase the efficiency of the system as a whole. 

Learning more about how to recognize the signs that they need to be changed, as well as how often and what the benefits of a change may be, is what expert HVAC technicians are here to teach.

What Signs Indicate an Air Filter Change Is Overdue?

Let’s start with the signs that an air filter change may be overdue. 

An air filter change may be overdue if people are experiencing more symptoms of asthma and allergies like sneezing, coughing, wheezing, and more. 

An increase in the electricity bill may also signal the need for an air filter change. This can indicate a decrease in the efficiency of the system, which can be due to clogging or buildup on the system or the air filter itself. 

One last sign to look for is standing dust and dirt around the house. When an air filter reaches its maximum filtration, all of that dust, dirt, pet hair, etc. will not be filtered out and will continue to circulate around the home. 

What Are the Benefits of an Air Filter Change?

Air filters weren’t built to last indefinitely. Because of what they do and how they work, over time the dirt, dust, and pollutants will build up on the surface of the filter and eventually block the flow of air.

The benefits of an air filter change are numerous, especially for the health of anyone living in the home.

Air filter changes can extend the lifespan of the HVAC system by removing much of the buildup that can slow it down in the first place. That also makes the system more efficient. It also cleans the air, removing dirt and allergens that can make people allergic or sick. This is beneficial for asthmatics and even improves sleep.

Finally, there is a financial benefit to changing the air filter regularly. Due to the increase in efficiency, this can provide, it naturally lowers the electricity bill.

How Often Should an Air Filter Be Changed?

The frequency with which an air filter should be changed really depends on a variety of different factors. The model of the air filter plays into it, as does the number of pets and size of the household. Local air pollution, as well as the quality of the air inside the home, can be a factor.

In homes that are located in Mediterranean climates, like here in Berkeley, air filters may also need to be changed frequently (especially in the summer, where HVAC units tend to run constantly).

30 to 60 days is the average that an air filter can go without being changed. Homes without occupants year-round may be able to change filters less frequently (around 6 to 12 months depending on how frequently it’s occupied), while those mentioned above (like homes with pets) should be changed at least once a month.

About Albert Nahman Services

Albert Nahman Services is a local family-owned and operated, licensed, and insured plumbing company. All of their plumbing and HVAC services are performed by their extensively trained technicians in Berkley, CA. Give them a call today for top-notch service and exceptional customer experience.