Maintaining a Comfortable Home: How Often Should You Change Your AC Filters?

When it comes to keeping your home cool and comfortable, the air conditioner's filter plays a major role. It helps to filter out dust, dirt, and other airborne particles from the air that you breathe. But how often should you be changing your AC filters?

Why Is It Important to Replace Your Filters?

The primary reason for replacing your AC filter is that it can become clogged with dirt and debris over time. This can reduce the efficiency of your air conditioner, leading to higher energy bills. Additionally, if the filter is dirty, pollutants can pass through into the air in your home.

How Often Should You Change Your Filter?

The frequency with which you should replace your AC filter depends on several factors such as what type of filter you are using, where you live, and how much pollution there is in your area. Generally speaking though, it's recommended that you change out your filters every three months.

For Homes With Pets

If there are pets in the house then it's important to change out the filters more frequently than usual. Pet hair and dander can quickly accumulate in the filter which will reduce its effectiveness. It's recommended that pet owners replace their filters every one or two months.

For Homes With Allergies or Asthma

If someone in the household suffers from allergies or asthma then it's important to keep up with changing out the filters regularly too. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen and mold spores can build up in a dirty filter which could aggravate symptoms so it's best practice to replace them every one or two months.

For Homes With Smokers

Smoking inside of a home will cause tar and nicotine buildup on an AC filter which will decrease its efficiency as well as increase energy bills over time. For this reason, smokers should replace their filters at least once per month.

Conclusion

Replacing an AC filter on a regular basis is essential for maintaining good indoor air quality. Depending on where you live, what type of environment you have, and what type of filtration system you use, it's generally recommended that everyone changes their filters every three months. However, those who have pets, allergies/asthma sufferers, or who smoke should change their filters more frequently.