You may have heard that HVAC air filters should be changed every three months, but that’s not necessarily true for every home. Pets, dust, allergens, filter type, and how often your heating and cooling system runs can all impact how often you should replace your filter. Our team at Premier HVAC Services helps Chambersburg homeowners keep their heating and cooling systems moving air properly, especially when you switch from using your AC to fall heating. Here’s what to know about your air filter and how often to really change it.
HVAC Air Filter Replacement Schedule by Filter Type
Start by checking your filter once a month to see how dirty it is. For a common 1-inch disposable filter, you can expect to replace it every 30 to 90 days. Basic fiberglass filters usually need to be changed closer to 30 days, while many pleated filters can last longer. If your filter looks dirty before it’s due for replacement, change it sooner rather than waiting until airflow becomes restricted.
Where to Find the Air Filter in Your Home
Before buying filter replacements, find out where your system filters the return air. In some homes, it’s in a slot beside the furnace or air handler. In others, it’s located behind a large return-air grille in a hallway, wall, or ceiling. Homes with multiple return grilles may have more than one filter.
Here’s the process to change your filter:
- Turn the system off before opening the slot or grille.
- Check the size printed on the old filter and note the arrow showing airflow direction. It should point toward the equipment, not into the room.
- Take a photo of the size before throwing the old filter away. A loose fit lets dust slip around the edges, even if you’ve bought a high-quality filter.
- Install the new filter with the airflow arrow pointing toward the equipment, then close the grille or filter slot.
If you’re not sure where yours goes, ask our technicians during your next service visit.
How Pets, Allergies, and HVAC Usage Affect Filter Changes
Households with dogs or cats may need checks and changes closer to monthly because pet hair and dander can quickly load up a filter. If you’re doing a renovation or are dealing with heavy seasonal pollen or have family members with allergies or respiratory issues, using a higher-efficiency filter can help capture smaller airborne particles. But the filter still needs to be compatible with your heating and cooling equipment. It’s also important to know that if you leave your thermostat fan set to ON, your filter can still collect dust between heating and cooling cycles, so you may need to change it more often.
Schedule Fall HVAC Maintenance in Chambersburg
If a new filter hasn’t improved weak airflow, uneven heating, or unusually long run times, something else may need attention. During a fall tune-up, we can check system airflow, inspect heating components, and show you which filter belongs in your setup.
Contact our team at Premier HVAC Services to schedule heating maintenance before colder weather arrives. We’re there when you need us most.