If you’re wondering, “How often should I change my AC filter?, you’re not alone. In The Woodlands, where we deal with heat, humidity, and seasonal pollen, changing your HVAC air filter regularly is one of the easiest ways to keep your home’s air clean and your system running efficiently. In our blog, we answer your most pressing questions about HVAC air filters to help you and your family breathe easily.
What does an HVAC air filter do?
Your air filter has three key jobs:
- Traps dust, pollen, and pet dander to keep the air circulating through your home clean.
- Protects your HVAC system by stopping dirt from clogging internal parts.
- Improves indoor air quality, especially for people with allergies or asthma.
How often should I change my AC filter?
This answer depends on your home and your lifestyle, but here’s a quick guide:
- Every 30 days – if your unit uses a basic fiberglass filter.
- Every 60–90 days – if your unit uses a pleated filter, the kind in most average homes.
- Every 20–45 days – if you have pets or family members who suffer from allergies.
- Every 6–12 months – if you use high-efficiency HEPA filters.
What factors affect how often I need to change my filter?
Several factors can change how often you should replace your HVAC filter in The Woodlands. Here is a list of the most common issues:
- Pets: More pets equals more fur and dander, which means more frequent changes. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, 6 out of 10 households in the United States have a pet, but allergies to cats and dogs affect 10% – 20% of the population. The fur and dander moves through your air ducts and clogs air filters faster. Learn more about pet dander and indoor air quality at HVAC.com.
- Allergies: If you or your family members suffer from allergies, changing your air filters often will help reduce allergens circulating through your home.
- Home size and occupancy: The more people living in your home, the more dust your home will accumulate.
- Local conditions: Pollen, humidity, and construction dust in The Woodlands all affect your air filter and how fast it gets dirty.
- HVAC usage: In summer or winter when your system runs more, you should change the filter more often.
Why is it important to replace my air filter regularly?
There are many benefits to changing your air filter regularly, including the following:
- Improved air quality inside your home.
- Lower energy bills by helping your system run more efficiently.
- Extended life of your HVAC system by reducing wear and tear.
- Preventing expensive repairs caused by dirty, clogged filters.
What happens if I forget to change my air filter?
Neglecting your air filter can lead to poor air quality, higher energy bills, your HVAC unit overheating or failing, or damage to your system that leads to costly repairs.
How can I remember to change my HVAC air filter?
Don’t worry, we have a few easy tips to help you stay on top of air filter maintenance.
- Set a reminder on your phone or calendar.
- Write the install date on the filter.
- Use a subscription service that delivers new filters on schedule.
Need help with your HVAC system in The Woodlands?
If you’re unsure which filter to use or you need help changing it, The Woodlands Plumbing & Air is here for you. Our expert HVAC technicians can inspect your system, recommend the best filter for your needs, and keep your HVAC running smoothly year-round. If you become a member of Wally’s Savings Club, your twice-annual maintenance inspections include air filter replacement.
Call us today or schedule an appointment online to keep your air fresh and your system efficient.
