How Often Should I Check My Air Filter?

Would you believe us if we said that one of the most important aspects of your HVAC system isn’t a high-tech piece of equipment, but rather a simple air filter? It’s true! Air filters are responsible for removing contaminants in the air, like pollen and pet dander, that could both affect your health and lead to a malfunctioning HVAC system. Continue reading to learn everything you need to know about air filters and air filter replacement in St. George, UT.

HVAC contractors recommend checking your air filters once a month. All you have to do is pull out your filter and see how dirty it is. If it’s pretty gross and discolored, replace it with a new one, or clean it off if you have a permanent filter. If your HVAC unit uses a thicker and more efficient filter, you can probably go about three months without checking and replacing it.

It’s important to note that in high-use months, your filter will most likely get dirtier more quickly. For this reason, you should be prepared to change or clean it once a month.

How do I change my filter?

The good news is that changing your air filter is as easy as can be. Simply locate the filter access door, open it up and remove the filter. The door could be next to the return air duct near the unit, or inside the unit itself. Be sure you put the new filter in your unit the correct direction. Otherwise, the filter won’t work properly, and you’ll be left with contaminated air. The air filter should have arrows on it that indicate which direction it should face.

Why check and change my filter?

Checking and changing your air filter isn’t just something HVAC contractors harp on for no reason—dirty air filters have serious implications. Here are a few of the reasons why you should check and replace your filter often:

• Keep air clean: An air filter keeps the air inside your home as clean as possible. Don’t you want to breathe in clean air? Of course you do! Change that filter often to ensure you’re not inhaling dirty air that’s full of pollen, dust, dander and who knows what else.
• Prevent breakdowns: One of the leading causes of a malfunctioning HVAC system is a dirty or clogged air filter. Too much dirt trapped in this simple filter leads to big problems for the complicated machinery inside your unit. A quick check and change can potentially save you hundreds of dollars on repairs.
• Ensure efficiency: Dirty air filters make your unit work harder to produce hot or cold air. That means your electric bill will be much higher. If you’d like to save some big bucks each month, just change your filter!

As mentioned above, replacing or cleaning your air filter is a quick and easy DIY job. That being said, feel free to give Calaway Heating & Air Conditioning a call for air filter replacement in St. George, UT if you need help. We’d be glad to change out your air filters and perform an inspection of your unit to ensure everything looks and functions as it should.

Categorised in: Air Filter Replacement

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