How Often Should I Check My Air Filter?

You know that you need to call an HVAC contractor in Tampa, FL to inspect your furnace each fall and your AC each spring. But did you know that you also need to perform some quick maintenance on your own throughout the year. It’s true! Your central heating and cooling system has an air filter that needs to be swapped out or cleaned off at least once a month. The following post will cover everything you need to know about replacing that dirty filter.

What are the dangers of not changing my air filter?

Changing or cleaning your air filter isn’t just something that HVAC technicians say you should do so they can sell more filters. Neglecting your filters can lead to serious ramifications. Here are several reasons why you need to be diligent each month about checking and replacing your filter:

• Broken unit: A dirty air filter is one of the most common reasons for furnace and AC breakdowns. Clogged filters allow dust and other debris to get inside your unit, which causes problems for the delicate components of your system. Instead of paying hundreds of dollars for avoidable repairs, swap out your filter each month! A new filter only costs a few bucks, and changing it will only take a few minutes of your time.
• Shortened unit lifespan: If properly maintained, your HVAC unit can last for decades, but that doesn’t mean all you have to do is call the pros for an annual checkup. Swap out your air filter each month to ensure your unit doesn’t wear down prematurely and need to be replaced. Needless to say, buying and installing a new HVAC unit isn’t a cheap expense!
• Energy inefficiency: Believe it or not, your HVAC system typically accounts for up to 42 percent of your monthly electric bill. Since that’s the case, you want to do everything you can to keep it as energy efficient as possible. Calling a maintenance technician to tune up your system in the fall and spring will help ensure energy efficiency, but replacing your air filter is the best way to keep your unit as efficient—and your bills as low—as possible. A clogged filter makes your unit work harder to put out hot or cold air, which can increase your energy bill by up to 15 percent. Save a pile of money throughout the year by changing your filter each month.
• Dirty air: The air quality in your home is crucial, especially if you have family members with allergies or asthma. Sure, you can purchase expensive air purifiers to keep your air clean, but the best way to ensure a consistent supply of fresh air is to change your air filter each month. Filters block contaminants from circulating through your air ducts, so be sure to change them regularly to ensure they block as much dust and debris as possible from entering your home.

Changing or cleaning your air filter is pretty much as easy as it gets for home maintenance. However, if you need help changing your filter, feel free to give Kenny’s Air Conditioning & Heating Services, Inc. a call. As a reliable HVAC contractor in Tampa, FL, you can trust us to come to your house to quickly swap out your filter and check your unit to make sure it’s running at optimal efficiency!

Categorised in: HVAC Contractor