If you are like the average homeowner, you probably don’t remember exactly when you changed your filter last. You’ve been told it’s important before, but honestly, how big of a deal can it be to skip it every now and then? Let's just say IT'S REALLY IMPORTANT.
Here is why...
How Important is Changing Air Filters
Maintaining your air conditioning system properly prevents you from having to rely on an HVAC service company, and allows you to use that money elsewhere. We're always looking for ways to lower our heating costs during the winter, and this is a great way to do it!
The most important thing a homeowner can do to protect their system and prolong its lifespan is to change the filter. Changing the furnace and return air filters is crucial to your HVAC system’s performance and health.
What Happens if You Don't Change Your HVAC Filter
The filter’s primary purpose is to protect your HVAC system’s internal components from any debris that may get sucked up into the return air duct. This includes the dust, dirt, and random crud (pet hair is pretty popular) that you see built up on that long-neglected filter.
Removing a dirty filter without replacing it with a new one leaves your system open to damage from random objects or debris getting into the internal components and knocking something out of whack.
It also opens the door for a buildup of dirt and dust on your coils and other components, making your system less efficient and more costly.
If you just leave the dirty filter on there, you are restricting airflow and causing the system to have to work longer and harder to do the same job. Causing the lifespan of the unit to decrease.
So if you neglect to replace and clean your filters, your HVAC unit will...
- Likely get damaged by debris
- Lose efficiently rising your monthly bills
- Restrict airflow and reducing its lifespan
According to Energy.Gov when you have a dirty or clogged filter, it can cause your unit to use up to 15% more energy consumption. Which can start to add up on your energy bill!
By changing your filter regularly, you save money. It lowers your electricity bill, prolongs the life of your system, and decreases the likelihood that you will need HVAC repair services. Which depending on where you live in the United States, can be quite costly.
Of course, we still recommend regular system maintenance, but that’s another blog post for another day. 
How Often Should You Replace Or Clean Your Filters
There is not necessarily a set rule on this because it can vary depending on how your home is used and where you live. However, here are some common guidelines to go by when considering how often you should replace or clean your filters.
If you have a vacation house that has no pets or allergies, your filters should be replaced or cleaned around every 6-12 months.
If you live in a regular home with no pets, your filters should be replaced or cleaned around every 3 months. For households with one pet, such as a dog or cat, the filters should be replaced or cleaned every 2 months. For homes that have more than one pet and/or anyone with allergies, it is best to replace or clean the filters every 20-45 days.
If you haven't changed your air filters in a year, it's time to get them replaced immediately. They are well overdue to be replaced for better air quality and better HVAC efficiency.
Regular HVAC Maintenance & Filters
Changing your HVAC filters is an important part of keeping your home comfortable and energy efficient. Not only will it improve air quality and reduce allergies, but it will also help extend the life of your system and save you money in the long run.
Changing your filters every few months or as recommended by the manufacturer can significantly reduce your energy bill, keep your home clean and safe, and ensure that your family enjoys a pleasant indoor environment all year long.
If you're in need of HVAC maintenance and need your filters cleaned or replaced here in Alabama, be sure to give us a call here at Thomas Service Company.