When You Should Change Your AC Unit Air Filters?

HVAC technician standing next to outdoor heat pump and air conditioner units performing AC maintenance

There are a number of factors to consider when deciding when to change your AC unit air filters. For example, if you have pets, you may need to replace the filter more often than a non-pet owner. Also, lower home occupancy will extend the life of an air filter.

Pet owners should replace their AC unit air filters more often

If you have pets, you may have to change your AC unit’s air filter more often. This is because pet dander can clog up the filter and lower the air quality in your home. You should change your filter at least once a month. If you have multiple pets, you may want to change it every 20 days or more frequently.

Additionally, pet owners should clean the fur and hair from their homes regularly, which will make the air in their homes feel fresh and clean. This will keep allergens and other contaminants out of the air. You can also do this by vacuuming frequently to remove pet hair and dirt from your surfaces.

MERV rating

When it comes to replacing the air filters in your AC unit, you’ll want to be sure you’re using the highest-quality MERV-rated air filter. These filters offer excellent air purification and don’t reduce air flow. MERV-rated filters are also better for the longevity of your HVAC system.

The MERV rating of your AC unit air filter is important because it’s a good indicator of efficiency. This rating can range from one to 16, and the higher the number, the better. The MERV rating is calculated by comparing the efficiency of the filter with the particle size in the air. Generally, residential air filters should have a MERV rating between seven and thirteen.

Fiberglass vs Pleated air filters

When choosing a new air filter for your AC unit, it’s important to understand the benefits of both types. While fiberglass air filters do the basic job of filtering out airborne particles, pleated air filters can be more effective. Pleated filters are more efficient because they can filter out smaller particles. They are also less likely to clog. They can also last up to 90 days and can be recycled in many communities.

If you’re shopping for a new filter for your AC unit, you’ll notice a wide variety of choices. The two most common options are fiberglass and pleated air filters. Although fiberglass air filters tend to be more economical than pleated ones, they don’t provide the same high-quality air as pleated filters.

Cost of replacing an air filter

When you need to change the air filter in your AC unit, it’s important to do so before the dirty filter starts to affect the performance of the unit. The best time to change the filter is every thirty to sixty days. A 1-inch filter should last about 30 days or more, depending on usage. If you don’t change the filter often, you’ll risk a buildup on the filter, which will block clean air from passing through. This buildup can cause respiratory problems, headaches, and dizziness. Changing your filter regularly is a quick, easy and inexpensive way to prevent these problems.

You can purchase a new filter for as little as 99 cents or as much as $20. Prices vary based on the size of the particles that the filter can trap. The cheaper ones tend to trap larger particles, while the more expensive ones are designed to trap smaller particles. The more expensive ones typically come with a MERV rating that shows how many particles they can trap.

If you need help with replacing your air filters in your home or business in the Phoenix, Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, Tempe or Scottsdale area contact us for help.