Maintaining air filters for HVAC systems is essential for ensuring a comfortable, efficient, and clean home. Homeowners should change the unit's filter, especially if it's an HVAC unit that tends to be used almost all year round, at least every three months, but possibly more often. During spring or fall, when temperatures start to change, it's time to do some air conditioning maintenance. Performing regular maintenance can ensure that your unit is in the best possible condition before it has to work with exceptional intensity during the cold winter and hot summer temperatures.
To learn how often HVAC filters should be replaced, it's helpful to start with the basics. As a general rule, many HVAC professionals will suggest changing the air filter at least once every 90 days. However, most air filter manufacturers will probably recommend checking the user's manual for your air conditioning system to see if there are any guidelines you should follow. The belts, which in the past required regular inspections, now routinely operate for a minimum of one year between adjustments.
If the ducts that carry air to the oven are to the right of the oven, make sure that the filter arrow also points to the right. The American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) established a standardized method for testing the efficiency of air filters in 1987 called the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV). This usually involves checking the filter once a month and changing it every three months or when the seasons change.
Air filters
made of a pleated material usually have more space on the surface to accumulate dust and debris than flat fiberglass filters. If you can't find the manufacturer's specifications for the type of filter you should buy, you can easily see what size you already have and buy one based on that size.It's best to choose a mid-range filter that doesn't exceed the MERV 8, which can trap particles as small as 3 microns, such as hairspray, pudding mix, dust removal aids, and mold spores. However, according to Mark Davidson, director of marketing and technical materials at Camfil USA: “While today's pleated air filters may look the same as before, the similarity ends there. It may also be more practical to buy replaceable filters if you don't want to take the time to wash them. While automakers are extending maintenance intervals to 10,000 miles and, in some cases, more, that message hasn't reached everyone yet. However, it is important to recognize that these filters can significantly affect the performance of the boiler and air conditioning system.
The only downside to washable filters is that they are more vulnerable to user error and may not be covered by some manufacturer or household warranty plans. There are a variety of different shapes and sizes of filters, and the manufacturer will indicate which size and shape are best for your oven or air conditioner. In conclusion, changing your HVAC system's air filter regularly is essential for keeping your home comfortable and efficient all year round. It's important to check your user manual for specific instructions on how often you should replace your filter and what type of filter is best for your system. Additionally, make sure you choose a mid-range filter with a MERV rating of 8 or lower.
