Your indoor air quality is important for your health and comfort, which means that if you’re slacking on regular air filter changes, it’s time to get back on a consistent schedule. Depending on the type of air conditioner and filter you have, you may need to change the filter more frequently than the standard 90-day recommendation.
While your contractor can complete this step during HVAC repairs in Ruston, LA, changing the filter is generally one of the easiest maintenance tasks you can complete on your own. Here’s how to determine when to change your air filter:
- Indoor air quality: What’s your indoor air quality like? If you’re constantly coughing and sneezing indoors, you may need to change your air filter more frequently. The amount of dust in your home may indicate a need for a bigger change—if it seems like you dust and then need to do it again a few hours later, you might consider getting better air filters.
- Health concerns: Anyone with respiratory illnesses should consider specialized filters, such as HEPA filters. The more particles and contaminants that can be filtered out, the better you’ll be able to breathe indoors. Change your filter about once per month for best results.
- Type of air filter: Do you have fiberglass filters? These need to be changed every month—although they’re a lower-cost option most of the time, you may find that it’s cheaper to get higher-quality filters and change them less often. Pleated air filters, for example, can last about three to six months, depending on how often they’re used and the size of your household.
- Pets: If you have pets, you should plan to change your air filter more frequently than the manufacturer’s recommendations. Pets shed hair and dander everywhere, which can irritate your respiratory system and trigger allergies. These allergens get caught in your air filter, and it will need to be changed at least once per month for the best possible indoor air quality.
- Household size: If you’re living alone, you’re probably not generating as much dirt, dust and other air contaminants as you might if you have pets or a larger family. Plus, the larger your home is, the more the air has to circulate, putting a heavier load on your filters. Try to buy higher-quality filters and check them after a month to see whether it’s time to change them out.
- Outdoor air quality and pollution: The outdoor air quality in your area also has an impact on your HVAC filters. For example, if your home is in an area with a lot of smoke or smog, your air conditioner will need to work overtime to filter it out. Change your filter about once a month when the air quality is bad.
- Vacation vs. regular home: Finally, how often you use your HVAC unit impacts filter changes. For vacation homes, you may only need to change the filter once or twice per year.
If you need help with your filter changes and air conditioning repair in Ruston, LA, J & B Air Conditioning, Heating, & Gutters can help. Call us today to learn more about our services and get a quote on air conditioning repairs.