There are many options for residential heating systems that you can choose from. From furnaces to heat pumps and ductless mini splits, homeowners have several options they can opt for.
Even though all these systems work differently, there are a few components like air filters that they all have in common. These filters are responsible for cleaning the air that circulates through the heating system. They trap and hold many types of particulates and contaminants that could affect your health and comfort. These include dust, dirt, and pollen. In addition to this, you can invest in antibacterial air filters that are designed to filter 99.9% of all allergens from the air.
Since filters trap several types of particulate matter from the air they need to be replaced every few months. There are many factors that go into deciding when you should replace your filters. However, as a general rule, you should replace your air filters after every 90 days.
To help you make a more informed decision, we have listed some of the factors that could require you to replace your filter more often.
More Environmental Pollution
If you live in an area where the air is rather polluted and the amount of dust in the air is more than normal (near the main road), then you will have to change your air filters more often. The longer the filter is in place, the more dirt, dust, and allergens are likely to become trapped in the filter.
People In Your House Have Asthma Or Allergies
Outdoor air contains harmful allergens. If this air is constantly circulated inside your house without adequate filtration, it can worsen the condition of people who already have allergies or asthma as they are much more sensitive to airborne particulates. Hence, you will have to replace your filter more often.
Pets In The House
If you have a furry friend in the house, we are pretty sure that you are no stranger to fur shedding. Their fur is lightweight and circulates with the air. This fur is filtered by your air filters in both heating and cooling systems. However, as compared to dust and dirt, fur is more clogging which is why houses that have pets require their filters to be replaced more often.
Why Should You Replace Your Air Filter Before Winter?
Leaving your filter dirty might not seem like a big deal, however, it can greatly affect the efficiency of your heating system. Even when your heating system is not running, the filter can trap dust and debris which is why it is important to replace the filter before using the system in winter.
Reduced Air Quality
The standard filter of your heating system – along with improving your indoor air quality – also protects the system itself from dust, debris, and grime. Leaving a filter dirty allows unfiltered air to bypass the filter, introducing pollutants into the ductwork and, subsequently, into your home.
Increased Energy Costs
Not replacing your air filters when needed, forces you to pay more even though you are living in less comfort. A heating system with dirty filters has to work harder than normal to keep the house at a certain temperature, yet it fails to work efficiently. Despite not being able to provide high-end functionality, the system sucks up your energy leading to increased energy consumption and bills.
Frequent Problems
When your air filter is dirty the heater has to work extra hard to warm your home. This exponentially increases the risk of running into operational problems. The more strain that you put on your heater, the more likely it will be to start to run down requiring repair.
Hence replacing your air filter on time can help prevent these issues. If you don’t know how to replace your filter, you can always hire an HVAC maintenance professional to help you with the issue. They can also help you choose the best filter for your heating system.
Get Help From Pro West Heating & Air Conditioning
Pro-West Heating & Air Conditioning is your go-to partner when it comes to repairing, maintaining, and installing HVAC systems. We are one of the best and most reliable HVAC contractors In Vancouver and the lower mainland. Contact us for more information about our services.