As an expert in the HVAC industry, I am often asked about the frequency of changing furnace filters. It's a common misconception that furnace filters only need to be changed once a year, but the truth is that the frequency of filter replacement depends on several important factors. In this article, I will discuss the recommended timelines for changing different types of filters and the factors that can affect these timelines. For 3- to 4-inch filters, it is recommended to change them every 6 to 9 months. For 5- to 6-inch filters, replacement should occur every 9 to 12 months.
However, these timelines are not set in stone and can vary depending on your specific circumstances. The type of filter you have also plays a role in how often it needs to be changed. A fiberglass air filter should be replaced about once every 30 days or as recommended by the manufacturer. On the other hand, a pleated air filter should be changed every three to six months. These timelines may seem short, but they are necessary for maintaining good air quality in your home. To determine the ideal frequency for changing your furnace filter, it is important to visually inspect it every month.
This will give you an idea of how quickly it gets dirty and when it needs to be replaced. You may also need to re-evaluate if there are any changes in your home environment, such as getting a new pet or experiencing poor outdoor air quality. At Filterbuy, we take your privacy seriously and adhere to our privacy policy and terms of use when you place an order with us. Regularly changing your furnace filter is crucial for ensuring that only clean air comes out of your HVAC system. The filters are assigned a minimum efficiency report value (MERV) which ranges from 1 to 16, with ratings from 6 to 12 being the best for residential furnaces. If you have a vacation home, cabin, or other property that is not used often, you can usually wait a little longer to replace the filter.
For fiberglass air filters, it is recommended to wait up to three months before changing, and for pleated air filters, it is advised to wait nine to 12 months. However, if you have several people living in your home, the filter will need to be replaced more frequently compared to a single-occupant home. It's important to note that the main purpose of an oven filter is not to clean the air you breathe, but rather to clean the air that passes through your oven and other air conditioning equipment. This is why it's crucial to choose the right size and type of filter for your specific HVAC system. If you are unsure about which filter to choose, consult with a professional or refer to your manufacturer's recommendations. I have personally experienced the consequences of using an incorrectly sized filter.
The indoor air quality was poor and my HVAC system was not functioning efficiently. Fortunately, Filterbuy was able to provide me with the correct filter and restore my system's performance. Furnaces are made up of several main parts that are responsible for heating the air inside your home. Depending on your lifestyle and the type of furnace filter you choose, you may need to change it more often. If you've never changed an air filter before, there are some common signs that indicate it needs to be replaced. If you install an air filter with a MERV rating higher than what is recommended by your heating or air conditioner manufacturer, it could negatively impact the performance of your system.
It's important to follow the guidelines provided by your manufacturer to ensure optimal performance and efficiency. Generally speaking, HVAC furnace filters do not need to be changed as frequently during the winter months compared to the summer months. However, this can vary depending on your specific circumstances. It's always a good idea to check your filter regularly and replace it when necessary. I recently had a customer who was experiencing poor indoor air quality and high energy bills. Upon inspection, I found that their filter was clogged with dirt and debris, preventing proper airflow.
After replacing the filter, the air quality improved and their energy bills decreased. This is just one example of how regularly changing your furnace filter can have a positive impact on your home.
Leave a Comment