When is it Time to Change Your Air Filter?

Learn about signs that indicate you need to change your air filter such as increased energy bills, dust near ventilation grilles, forgotten maintenance schedules and more.

When is it Time to Change Your Air Filter?

You may have noticed an increase in your energy bills, dust near the ventilation grilles, or forgotten to schedule air conditioner maintenance. The most obvious sign that you need a new air filter is if the one you have is gray and dirty. Be sure to take out the air filter and check it out at least once every two months. If it looks dirty or dusty, it's time to change it.

It is recommended to change filters as the season changes. There are reasons to choose this schedule. Filters are more likely to get dirty long after a season of use. The beginning of autumn is the perfect time to change filters for this reason.

Filters that have not been serviced regularly may be dirty at the start of the hot season. Reviewing the filter and changing it in early summer ensures families stay cool throughout the season. Changing filters with the change of season makes it easier for homeowners to remember when to complete this task. Another common sign of a dirty air filter is finding dust on surfaces and furniture near ventilation grilles.

Compare these surfaces to other surfaces farther away. If the surfaces closest to the vents are more dusty and others seem cleaner, it's a sure sign that the air filter needs to be replaced. Allergy sufferers should be especially vigilant when it comes to replacing the air filter. Air filter collects dust, pollen and dander from pets.

When the filter becomes clogged with impurities, it is expelled, allowing contaminants to flow throughout the house. As a result, you may experience more significant allergic reactions. If so, it's time to choose a new filter. It may work less efficiently than before because it is dirty.

This reduces the cooling efficiency and airflow of the AC system. Regular cleaning will keep the air conditioner working properly, and you can choose to change the filter every 15 days. Changing your air filter regularly is one of the most important things you can do to ensure the proper functioning of your air conditioner or heat pump. If that section of the carpet appears to be visibly dusty or covered by an ash-like substance, then it's time to change the air filter as well.

It would be easier to change all air filters on a set schedule, but, unfortunately, there are many variables that affect how often a filter needs to be changed. Now that you know the problems that a dirty or clogged air filter can create, you'll want to change yours right away if any of these signs appear. Conversely, if the peak pollen season has already passed, but someone starts sniffing every time they enter the living room, then it's time to get rid of all the pollen and dust and replace the air filter too. If you need help changing your HVAC filter, contact an HVAC company that specializes in air conditioning systems.