When it comes to keeping your home cool and your AC system running smoothly, one of the simplest and most important tasks is routinely changing your filter. It’s easy to overlook, but this small piece of maintenance can make a big impact on your home’s comfort, air quality, and energy efficiency.
If you’ve never changed your filter—or it’s been a while—don’t worry. Here’s a helpful guide to why it matters and how to do it right.
Why Changing Your Air Filter Is So Important
As air circulates through your home, the filter traps dust, pet dander, pollen, and other airborne particles before they reach your HVAC system or the air you breathe.
Here’s what can happen if you don’t change your filter regularly:
- Reduced Airflow: A clogged filter restricts the flow of air, forcing your AC system to work harder to cool your home. This increases energy use and your utility bills.
- Increased Wear and Tear: Over time, a dirty filter can cause unnecessary strain on your system, leading to overheating, frozen coils, or even breakdowns.
- Poor Air Quality: When a filter is dirty, it can no longer trap pollutants effectively, which can aggravate allergies, asthma, and respiratory issues.
- Shortened System Lifespan: Since a struggling system ages faster than those faithfully maintained, regular filter changes can help extend its effective lifespan.
Changing your filter is a quick, inexpensive way to improve performance, reduce costs, and breathe cleaner air.
How Often Should You Change Your AC Filter?
Most filters should be replaced every 1 to 3 months, depending on factors like:
- Pets in the home
- People with allergies or asthma
- High AC usage
- Smoking indoors
- Dust levels
To play it safe, start by checking your filter every 6 to 8 weeks. Over time, you’ll figure out the replacement schedule that works best in your home.
How to Change Your AC Filter: Step-by-Step
Changing your filter is simple and requires no tools. Here's how to do it:
- Turn Off Your HVAC System
For safety, always switch the system off at the thermostat before handling the filter.
- Locate the Filter: It’s usually found behind a return air vent, in the air handler (often located in the attic). Check your system’s manual if you’re unsure, or look it up online using the make, model of your system for reference. .
- Remove the Old Filter: Slide it out carefully and take note of the arrow showing airflow direction.
- Check Filter Size: The size is printed on the edge of the old filter (e.g., 16x20x1). Buy the same size replacement. In fact, buy a few at a time so you always have at least one replacement filter ready to insert.
- Insert the New Filter: Slide it into the slot with the airflow arrow pointing in the correct direction.
- Turn the System Back On: That’s it—you’re done!
Keep It Clean, Keep It Cool
Also, remember that your AC system requires a professional tune-up and inspection once a year; so, if it’s been a year or long since service was last provided, contact Blau Sudden Service today to get it scheduled. Our service is first-rate; plus, we are committed to helping you achieve maximum indoor comfort with minimum system downtime.