How Often Should I Replace My Air Filter?

Who Lives in Your Home?

The people and pets living in your home also play a role in determining how often you should replace your air filter:

• Homes with Pets: Pets shed hair and dander, which can quickly clog air filters. If you have one pet, changing the filter every 60 days is usually sufficient. However, for multiple pets or high-shedding animals, consider changing the filter every 30 days to ensure that your HVAC system isn't working harder than it needs to.
• Allergies and Respiratory Conditions: If someone in your household suffers from allergies or respiratory illness, it's important to maintain clean air. This may require changing your air filter every 30 to 45 days, even if you’re using a high-quality filter.
• Children and Elderly Residents: Both children and elderly individuals are more susceptible to poor air quality. In homes with these vulnerable populations, changing the filter every 45 to 60 days is a good practice to ensure a healthy living space.

How Often Do You Use Your HVAC System?

The frequency with which you use your HVAC system directly affects how often you should replace the air filter. If your system runs constantly, the filter will accumulate debris faster and need to be changed more often.

• High Usage: If your HVAC system runs most of the day, such as in homes where someone is always present or during extreme weather seasons, consider replacing the filter every 30 days. High usage can lead to a quicker buildup of dust and particles, putting more strain on the system and increasing the need for regular AC repair.
• Moderate Usage: For homes where the HVAC system is used moderately, such as during specific times of the day or only when necessary, replacing the filter every 60 days is usually sufficient. However, it’s always a good idea to check the filter monthly to ensure it’s still effective.
• Low Usage: In homes with minimal HVAC use, such as vacation homes or during mild weather months, filters can last up to 90 days. Even with low usage, it's important to replace the filter at least every three months to prevent mold and bacteria buildup, which could require costly hvac or furnace repair if left unchecked.

Where Is Your Home Located?

The environment around your home is another factor to consider when deciding how often to replace your air filter. If you live in a city or near a busy road, your air filter will likely collect more dust and pollutants from outside. In these cases, changing your filter every 30 to 45 days can help maintain good indoor air. Homes in rural areas may experience less pollution, but they are not immune to dust, pollen, and other allergens. During peak seasons, more frequent filter changes may be necessary, even if you’re using a high-quality filter.

Do You Need Professional Maintenance Services From a Local HVAC Company?

Whether you need advice on filter replacement or professional air conditioning repair in Orange, CA, Service Hero is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our services and discover why so many homeowners trust us with their HVAC needs.