The Importance of Changing Your HVAC Filter

Sanks Mechanical is a family-owned and -operated HVAC company that has served Bucks County, Montgomery County, and Philadelphia for more than a decade. One of the most common issues we encounter is HVAC filters that haven’t been changed often enough. With that in mind, let’s explore the importance of changing your HVAC filter and how often you should do it.

What Is an Air Filter and What Does It Do?

An HVAC system will have one or more return vents depending on the size of your home. This is where air is drawn back into the system to be heated or cooled and recirculated. Return vents are typically where HVAC filters are installed, and these filters are often made of pleated material. As air flows through, airborne particles are trapped in the filter and therefore don’t enter your HVAC system. HVAC filters have a MERV rating—minimum efficiency reporting value—that indicates filtration effectiveness. All systems require a filter in a particular MERV range, and you should choose accordingly, and the higher the MERV, the more filtration is provided.

Why Do You Need to Change It?

There are a number of factors to the importance of changing your HVAC filter. The reason HVAC filters are used is to keep as much particulate matter as possible out of your HVAC system. This is important because dust and other matter lead to wear and tear on your system and also mix with oils and other substances to create grime that causes additional wear. The other issue is that particles that manage to get through tend to settle in the ductwork, and over time, this can seriously affect indoor air quality because dust is like a sponge that absorbs pollutants and then continues to reemit them.

The other aspect of the importance of changing your HVAC filter that doesn’t get nearly enough attention is air pressure. Your HVAC system is designed to operate at a particular air pressure. As an HVAC filter becomes dirty, airflow is restricted, and static pressure increases. This has a tremendous effect on your system’s ability to perform. It’s a common cause of warm spots in a home, and over an extended period, it can lead to mechanical issues and even a shortened lifespan for your equipment.

How Often Do You Need to Change Filters?

Now that you know the importance of changing your HVAC filter, the next question is how often you should change it. The general rule and the advice you’ll hear most often is at least every three months. The truth, however, is that it varies from home to home. Even if people live in homes of a similar size, the couple with three kids, a dog, and a cat is going to have to change their filter more often than the couple who lives alone with no pets. We recommend checking your filter once a month and replacing it whenever you see dirt or buildup. Be mindful that when you see dirt, that means that the filter is saturated.

Contact Sanks for Seasonal Maintenance

The best way to keep your HVAC system running efficiently for many years is through seasonal maintenance, and we provide that service here at Sanks Mechanical. We can even replace your HVAC filters for you on a regular basis so that you don’t have to worry about it, and we encourage you to call 1-215-960-4803 or send us a message if you have any additional questions about the importance of changing your HVAC filter.