The forgotten air filter

Such a vital part of an efficient unit is such a small part that it is often overlooked; the air filter. Changing your air filter is crucial to the proper performance of your system, not to mention your home’s air quality. The air filter’s main purpose is to screen out all unwanted pollen and debris that is found in your home’s air. Make sure you check your furnace filters and air conditioning filters every month and particularly during cooling or heating season when the system is continuously used. If these filters were not changed on a routine basis, your system would have to work extra hard, increase expenses and reduce performance.

You should inspect your air filter every month. How often you change it will depend on several factors, such as:

• Air quality in your home
• Pets
• Allergies
• Dust
• Type of air filter being used

Standard air filter manufacturers will tell you to replace your air filter every 30-60 days, however that does not always apply to everyone. If the house is a vacation home you may find yourself replacing your air filter less often – maybe twice a year. If the house is your everyday house with pets and family members with allergies you may find yourself replacing the air filter every 30 days or sooner depending on the air quality in your home. If you are unsure of how often to change it, the general rule of thumb is if it looks dirty….replace it.