HVAC Filter FAQ: Save Money with This Simple Task

We hope that at least once a year, you schedule a maintenance appointment for your air conditioning unit and one for your heating system, or twice a year if you have a heat pump that serves as both. Scheduling a professional hvac inspection as part of routine maintenance is essential to prevent costly repairs, improve energy efficiency, and maintain the performance of your hvac systems. During this tune-up, our professional HVAC technicians will thoroughly inspect and clean your system, making necessary adjustments as they go. Many homeowners opt for a maintenance contract to ensure regular, scheduled service for their hvac systems, which provides peace of mind and helps maintain system reliability. Consulting HVAC experts for regular maintenance ensures optimal system performance, and maintenance is essential for both heating and cooling efficiency. On average, annual maintenance for an HVAC system costs between $75 and $200 per visit.

How often should you change your HVAC air filter?

• Replace or clean your air filter every 1–3 months
• Homes with pets or allergy sufferers may require monthly changes
• Check filters monthly during peak heating or cooling seasons
• Regular filter changes improve efficiency and extend system life

When considering system types, central ac systems use ductwork to cool the entire home, while other cooling systems, such as mini-splits or window units, are designed for individual rooms or zones. Proper HVAC maintenance ensures consistent comfort in temperature regulation, regardless of the system type.

This service does include changing your HVAC filters if necessary. Using high-efficiency HVAC filters, such as MERV 11 or 12, can further improve system performance and indoor air quality. However, this is not a task that should only be done once or twice a year. Rather, this is a task you can and should be doing on your own every 1–3 months. Dirty coils can lead to a HVAC system using up to 20% more energy than usual, so keeping them clean is crucial for efficiency. Changing your HVAC filter regularly is a simple but critical way to maintain system efficiency. 

There are several simple DIY HVAC maintenance tips and HVAC maintenance tasks homeowners can perform to keep their system running efficiently.

What Does an Air Filter Do?

The air filter that comes standard with your HVAC system is not there to clean the air in your home. Rather, its purpose is to prevent debris drawn into the return air ducts from entering the HVAC system’s cabinet and damaging its internal components. Maintaining proper airflow around and within the system is essential to ensure optimal efficiency and performance. Dust which collects inside the cabinet can cause extra friction on motors, affect electrical components, and lead to icing or reduced efficiency along the evaporator coil. Preventive maintenance, such as regular filter changes, helps avoid unnecessary wear and tear on system components. Regular filter changes also help keep evaporator coils and condenser coils clean, preventing costly issues and maintaining system efficiency.

Where Is the Filter?

Some air filters can be a bit tricky to find, as their location depends on the type of HVAC system and hvac units you have, as well as the situation of your home. In many systems, the filter may be located in the indoor unit. Locate your air handler, and you’ll usually find that the air filter is on the intake side of the unit. You can slide the filter out of a slot in order to replace or clean it. If you’re unsure, ask your HVAC technician during maintenance to show you where the filter is and how to care for it.

For systems with an outdoor unit, it’s important to regularly check and keep outdoor units clear of debris, leaves, and vegetation. Keeping outdoor units clear and ensuring units clear of debris helps maintain system efficiency and prevents issues. As part of routine maintenance, both the indoor unit and outdoor units should be inspected to ensure optimal performance. Keep outdoor HVAC units clear of debris for optimal performance.

Locating and replacing the filter is one of the essential maintenance tasks homeowners should be familiar with.

Why Is Changing the Air Filter So Important?

Your system’s air filter will begin to trap dust and other debris in its fibers as soon as the air conditioner or furnace turns on. If your HVAC system operates steadily for a month, the filter will have caught enough debris that it will be clogged, meaning it will restrict airflow. Changing the filter regularly is essential to ensure proper airflow and maintain energy efficiency. A clogged filter will cause your HVAC system to work harder than it should. Neglecting filter changes can lead to higher utility bills and potentially costly repairs. Without proper maintenance, you risk costly breakdowns and increased repair costs. Regular filter changes are a simple way to keep a well maintained system that efficiently reduces energy costs. Maintenance costs are lower when proper maintenance is performed regularly, which also extends the system’s lifespan and reduces increase energy costs. It needs to be replaced once a month. Sometimes, depending on use and type of air filter, it can be extended to every 3 months. Dirty air filters strain your furnace and lead to higher energy bills and wear.

How Often Should You Change Your HVAC Filter? (Annual Maintenance Schedule)

Regularly changing your HVAC filter is one of the simplest and most effective ways to keep your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system running smoothly. For most homes, replacing the air filter every 1–3 months is recommended, but the ideal schedule can vary based on several factors. If you have pets, allergies, or live in an area with high dust or pollen, you may need to change your filter more frequently to maintain optimal air quality and ensure your system operates efficiently.

Annual HVAC maintenance should also include checking refrigerant levels, inspecting the condensate drain, and verifying thermostat settings. Homeowners should check thermostat settings and test carbon monoxide detectors as part of their maintenance routine. Inspecting the heat exchanger is important for safety, and regular maintenance can help avoid premature HVAC replacement. Annual maintenance should include inspecting air conditioners, heat pumps, and other HVAC equipment to ensure they deliver cool air efficiently. Early spring is the ideal time to schedule these maintenance tasks to prepare for the cooling season. Regular cleaning of the HVAC drain line every three months prevents clogging and system malfunction.

Different types of air filters also have different lifespans, basic fiberglass filters may need monthly replacement, while higher-efficiency pleated filters can last up to three months. Always check your manufacturer’s guidelines for specific recommendations. Sticking to a regular filter replacement schedule not only improves indoor air quality but also reduces energy costs by helping your HVAC system work less to circulate air. Incorporating this simple task into your annual HVAC maintenance routine is a key step in keeping your ventilation and air conditioning system in top shape, ensuring comfort and efficiency all year long.

How Does a Clean Filter Improve Energy Efficiency and Save Money?

Keeping your HVAC system’s filter clean is one of the simplest ways to boost energy efficiency and save money on your utility bills. When the air filter is free of dust and debris, your system operates efficiently, allowing air to flow smoothly through the system. This reduces the amount of energy needed to heat or cool your home, which in turn lowers your energy costs. In fact, a clean filter can cut energy waste and save you up to 15% on your energy bills each year.

Beyond saving money, a clean filter also helps maintain high indoor air quality by trapping dust, pollen, and other airborne particles before they circulate through your home. This means you’ll enjoy cleaner air and a more comfortable living environment. By making filter changes a regular part of your HVAC maintenance routine, you’re not only protecting your system but also improving air quality and keeping more money in your pocket.

What Are Common HVAC Filter Problems and How Can You Troubleshoot Them?

Even with regular maintenance, HVAC filter issues can arise. The most common problem is a clogged or dirty filter, which restricts airflow and forces your HVAC system to work harder, leading to higher energy costs and potential system strain. Another frequent issue is incorrect filter installation, which can reduce system efficiency and even allow unfiltered air to bypass the filter entirely.

To troubleshoot these problems, start by inspecting your filter every month. If it looks dirty or clogged, replace it right away. Make sure the new filter is installed in the correct direction, following the arrows on the frame. As part of your DIY HVAC maintenance tasks, also check that the filter fits snugly in its slot and that there are no gaps around the edges.

Don’t forget to include other simple maintenance tasks, such as checking electrical connections and performing thermostat calibration, to ensure your system operates efficiently. Addressing these issues promptly can help you avoid costly repairs and prevent an increase in energy costs, keeping your HVAC system running smoothly all year long.

How Much Should You Budget for HVAC Filter Maintenance?

Budgeting for HVAC filter maintenance is straightforward and can lead to significant savings over time. Most homeowners spend between $50 and $100 per year on replacement filters, depending on the type and quality of filter used. High-efficiency or specialty filters may cost a bit more, but they can offer better air quality and longer lifespans.

In addition to filter replacements, it’s wise to set aside funds for occasional deep cleaning or professional maintenance visits, which typically range from $100 to $300 per service. While this may seem like an added expense, investing in regular maintenance helps your HVAC system operate efficiently, improves indoor air quality, and reduces the risk of costly repairs or energy waste down the line. By making filter maintenance a priority, you’re ensuring your system stays in top shape and your home remains comfortable and healthy.

When Should You Call a Professional for HVAC Filter Maintenance?

While many HVAC filter maintenance tasks are easy to handle on your own, there are times when calling a professional is the best choice. If you notice your filter is damaged, excessively clogged, or if your HVAC system is experiencing issues like refrigerant leaks or persistent cooling problems, it’s time to bring in an expert. Professionals have the tools and expertise to diagnose and resolve complex issues, ensuring your system returns to peak performance.

Additionally, if you’re unsure about how to replace your filter or perform other maintenance tasks, don’t hesitate to schedule a service visit. Regular tune-ups by a qualified technician can catch small problems before they turn into major repairs, saving you time, money, and stress. Trusting a professional for your HVAC filter maintenance gives you peace of mind that your system is running safely and efficiently, keeping your home comfortable all year round.

To schedule HVAC maintenance or indoor air quality services in Ashburn, VA, contact AllTech Services, Inc. today!