Are you wondering how often you should be changing your HVAC filter? Unfortunately, the answer is “it depends.” But we’ll cover a bit of nuance to help you through your new responsibility.
Are Thicker More Expensive Filters Better?
Eh, no. Follow what your machine recommends you use, but within those versions there are thicker “higher quality” filters. After a bunch of digging it’s my understanding that these thicker filters can shorten the lifespan of your HVAC system. They will force your system to work “harder” to push air through the filter because the material is more tightly knit which should theoretically capture more dust and debris.
So What Kind Of Filter Do I Use?
So, stay within your HVAC filter measurement. But I go with the cheapest filters I find at Home Depot! I started increasing the frequency of my filter changes so the lower cost filters make it financially doable. So go for the cheaper filters. Extend the life of your HVAC system and save a couple of bucks.
How Often Should You Be Changing Your HVAC Filter Though?
Read your HVAC systems manual. Or go by what your HVAC tech recommended. But I’m changing my filter every 2ish months. I’ll generally give the filter a quick inspection to see if it’s grayish. that insinuates it needs changing. Black means change it as soon as possible. Clean white filters mean you should generally have time left in it’s lifespan.
Do note that larger thicker filters can be changed less regularly. Again, follow your machine’s manual. But this isn’t a once-a-year or once every two years maintenance task. It’s fairly frequent. HVAC installation can cost $20k USD and upwards. Make sure to preserve your investment folks and spend the 3 bucks on a new filter!.
Here’s a photo of my dirty filter after a month or two! Go check on yours!
Need help picking your HVAC tradesperson? Check out this article.