Your AC is a big home investment. To get the most out of your system and to get the best return on that investment, your system needs careful maintenance. The foundation of HVAC maintenance is air filters. Changing out air filters is one of the simplest home maintenance chores, but it continues to be one that is often forgotten about. Let's learn more about changing out air filters.

How Often Should Air Filters Be Changed?

According to Consumer Reports, air filters can last three to 12 months. The time you need to change your filter could be more frequent if you have pets, live in an older home, smoke in the home, or have anyone living in the home with respiratory issues. As a general rule, it's important to stay within this amount of time to replace air filters to keep your system in good working order.

Why Are Air Filters Important?

Air filters are considered the foundation of AC maintenance because of the important work they do for the system. A typical HVAC filter is made of spun fiberglass or pleated paper framed in cardboard. These are inserted into the system in a specific way to catch air coming through the air ducts. The filters act as barriers to prevent contaminants from coming into the HVAC system. This also stops contaminants from circulating through your home. Filters are used to block out dust, dirt, pet hair, lint, mold, bacteria, and other unwanted things.

If the filter becomes old and dirty, then it can't effectively block out these things. The contaminants are then allowed into your system and your home. When the filter is exceptionally dirty, it will also make the HVAC system work harder and harder to move air through the ductwork. This creates greater wear and tear on the system over time.

Negative Consequences of Poor Filter Maintenance

If you fail to change out filters regularly, then your system will attempt to work harder and harder to keep your home comfortable. This will cause damage and wear to your system. Ultimately, your system will wear out sooner than it should. Another negative consequence is that when the system works harder and harder to maintain temps you will see higher and higher energy bills.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, properly maintained HVAC systems can last about 10 to 15 years, depending on the manufacturer. Make sure you're keeping your system maintained by getting the filter replaced routinely. If you are in need of AC repair services or maintenance, then please contact us today. We are here for your AC and HVAC needs. We look forward to hearing from you at Pipco Air Conditioning & Heating.