Most homeowners have heard the common advice that they should change their air filters every single month. At Kron West, we encounter this widespread misconception daily, and it’s time to set the record straight.
Understanding Filter Change Frequency
The reality is that filter replacement timing depends on several factors:
- Home occupancy levels
- Number of pets
- Local air quality
- Filter quality grade
- System usage patterns
The Real Guidelines
Here’s what actually determines your filter change schedule:
• Basic 1-inch fiberglass filters: Every 30-60 days
• Pleated medium-efficiency filters: Every 60-90 days
• High-end pleated filters: Every 6-12 months
Living in a rural area with no pets? Your filter might last three months or more. However, urban dwellers with multiple pets might need more frequent changes.
Cost and Efficiency Impact
Changing filters too frequently isn’t just unnecessary – it’s wasteful. Premature replacement of perfectly functional filters can cost hundreds of extra dollars annually while providing no additional benefits to your system’s performance or your indoor air quality.
Our professional HVAC technicians recommend inspecting your filter monthly but only replacing it when it shows visible signs of dirt accumulation or when airflow becomes noticeably restricted. This approach ensures optimal system efficiency while avoiding needless expense.
Remember, proper HVAC maintenance isn’t about following arbitrary schedules – it’s about understanding your specific needs and responding accordingly.
The Bottom Line
Don’t fall for the monthly change myth. Instead, learn to recognize when your system truly needs a new filter. This knowledge will help maintain peak system performance while saving you money on unnecessary replacements.
Need help determining the right maintenance schedule for your system? Contact our experienced team at Kron West for a professional assessment of your HVAC needs.