How Often Should You Replace Your Air Duct Filters?
Some places require cooler ventilation than others - their weather is so hot that air conditioning systems are a must-have.
Here in Las Vegas, Nevada, is one of these particular places, which experiences high temperatures ranging from ninety to over one hundred degrees in the summer season alone. Factor in the city's dusty situations, and the AC's performance needs more than frequent check-ups.
Maintenance and replacements are necessary to ensure that the system is working to its optimum capacity, including changing air filters for proper ventilation and maintaining the overall health of your HVAC system and health of your family.
How Often Should You Change Your Air Filters?
Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems ensure that you have a high air quality in your home. While most people ignore its importance, a house that regularly changes air filters can enjoy clean air and benefit from the clean ventilation environment.
An air filter made from fiberglass should regularly be changed every thirty days, while filters with high-end pleats can last six months at maximum.
This replacement routine entirely depends on the size of the filter use and the general environment it is situated in. Most experts suggest changing air filters every three months to avoid dirt and debris accumulation.
The more you stay on top of routine air filter replacement, the less buildup that will accumulate in your ducts. This means you won't have to hire an air duct cleaning service as frequently, while breathing healthier air all year long.
Factors to Consider When Changing Your Air Filters
HVAC systems usually have a lifespan of ten years, and a few replacements here and there can even prolong their use. Here are some factors to consider when its time to change air filters:
Type of Filter Used: There are various air filters in the market, but two of the most commonly used are fiberglass and pleated air filters. Fiberglass filters are budget-friendly, but they require frequent changes. Pleated air filters are more on the expensive side. Still, they have a proven track record of filtering various types of mini particles.
Allergic Reactions: If you are sensitive to dust and have respiratory problems, it is best to be mindful of your air filters and change them every 50 days or so. This ensures that no debris and allergens in the ducts can trigger a severe allergic reaction.
Presence of Pets and Children: To avoid contaminating the air vents with too much fur and dirt, it is best to replace them every two months. This also applies to a household with children, as frequent changes in air filters can always improve air circulation and provide high-quality ventilation.
Frequency of Usage: Households who have their HVAC systems working on a daily basis need to have periodic renewal and clean-up of air filters. This is typical, especially for countries with hot climates.
Air Quality: Another thing not to be neglected when it's time to change air filters is the air quality inside and outside the house. The air filters can be affected by poor-quality ventilation. They should be regularly changed, especially in a dusty environment.
Why Replace Air Duct Filters?
People view ventilation as an engineering and architectural problem, but it is a public health topic that should be taken into serious consideration.
Take note that the duration of the air filters in your home correlates to the amount of dust and allergic particles accumulated over that period. If you have neglected your HVAC maintenance and air filters' status check, then be prepared with the clogging and decreased ventilation efficiency.
Here are some of the reasons why you should frequently change air filters:
More breakdowns and system failures: An HVAC system's performance depends largely on the quality of the air filters being used. When your filter is clogged due to dirt and debris, there is an obvious strain on the unit, resulting in frequent breakdowns. This also requires an expert's hand for replacement which can cost quite a lot.
Expensive bills: When your HVAC filter is clogged, its workload doubles. This is because there is a hard time pulling air inside the room to either increase or decrease temperature. The air conditioning system also works overtime, resulting in high electric bills.
Health Risks: When your air filter is not frequently changed, it collects many allergic particles and bacteria that can lead your health to a downward spiral. Respiratory illnesses are also a risk.
Frequent air duct filter replacements may cost quite a lot, especially if you neglect them for a long period. It is best to remember that your air filters have a life span which you should be mindful of to ensure high-quality ventilation without the wallet and underlying health concerns.