Regularly changing the air filter in your HVAC system is the best way to optimize efficiency, avoid costly repairs, and reduce your utility bills. While you should usually replace it at least once every 90 days, HVAC contractors recommend doing this more often if your home experiences certain conditions. Below are several of these factors that may require more frequent changes.

What Causes an Air Filter to Become Dirty Faster? 

1. Frequency of Use 

If you rarely turn on the HVAC system, you may only need to change the air filter once or twice a year. This is because debris cannot accumulate in the screen if air isn't flowing through it. For example, if you have a vacation home that you only visit occasionally, an annual filter change is adequate. However, if you continuously run the system throughout the year, change the filter about once a month.

2. Pets 

The more pets you have, the more often the air filter needs to be changed. HVAC contractors point out that even if your pets don't shed much, they can still bring in dust, dirt, dander, and pollen. While these particles are small, they build up quickly in the filter, which can allow further debris to circulate throughout the home. This can lead to a stale, musty odor as the debris builds up. If you have a single pet, change the filter every 60 days. If you have multiple, change it monthly.

3. Increased Traffic

Like pets, the more people in your home, the more often you need a fresh air filter. Therefore, if you host regular gatherings or bring home a new baby, you should change the filter more frequently. This is especially important if anyone has allergies or asthma, as the poor air quality can be uncomfortable. To help control contaminants that can impact your family's health, HVAC contractors recommend changing the filter every 6-8 weeks if you have four or more people in the home. 

If you need help swapping your air filter or determining the correct schedule, contact Crescenze Cooling & Heating in Massillon, OH. The HVAC contractors at this family-owned company have been serving local residents and businesses for over 18 years, offering prompt installation, repairs, and maintenance. They are a Carrier® factory-authorized dealer, so you can always expect high-quality products. Visit them online to learn more about their services, and call (330) 830-0800 to make an appointment.