How often do you think about your HVAC filters? Chances are that it’s incredibly rare and possibly only when there is a problem with your heating and cooling. However, they need to be changed more often than you might realize. Not changing your air filter can result in damages requiring HVAC repair services in Birmingham, AL. Read more to learn how often you need to be changing your HVAC filters.

How Often Should Commercial HVAC Filters Be Changed

Do you change your filter once a year? Once a month? Can’t remember the last time you even looked at it? Most of us have been there before, only to suddenly have issues with heating, cooling, humidity, or ventilation. Debris can build up and clog HVAC filters, rendering them essentially useless. If they are not changed, then your unit could have some serious problems and potentially lead to health issues. Check out the importance of changing your filter and how often you should change it below.

Filter Importance

HVAC filters are integral to maintaining optimal temperature control and indoor air quality. These filters effectively eliminate dust, mold spores, and other harmful particles, safeguarding your health. However, if they become inefficient, you become vulnerable to a plethora of contaminated substances that can potentially cause health issues. In settings such as medical buildings and military facilities, where air purity is paramount, filters may require more frequent replacements compared to residential settings. Regular filter maintenance is crucial for ensuring a healthy and safe environment in both residential and specialized settings.
In addition to the impact on air quality and health, a clogged filter can have detrimental effects on the HVAC unit itself. A dirty filter impedes airflow, leading to strain on the system as it struggles to maintain the desired temperature. This excessive workload not only compromises the efficiency of the unit but also results in soaring energy bills. To ensure both your physical well-being and financial stability, it is essential to establish a consistent filter replacement schedule. By adhering to this schedule, you can maintain a properly functioning HVAC system, optimal indoor comfort, and avoid unnecessary expenses associated with energy consumption and potential unit repairs.

Filter Replacement Schedule

Filter replacement needs will depend on the type of building and order of business in said building. Relatively clean environments will need fewer replacements than those dealing with more pollutants. Filters in dry and clean settings can last for approximately three months with relatively great efficiency. Here are some further suggestions below:

1. Office buildings should change their filters once a quarter. Make sure staff marks on a calendar when it is changed so the next replacement can be scheduled more easily.
2. Factories, restaurants, auto shops, and businesses that deal with heavy machinery, oil, chemicals, and grease will need to be changed more frequently. These elements can clog filters very quickly. The HVAC unit’s internal components could burn out from overworking, which will compromise the airflow and air quality. Due to the production of debris, dust, chemicals, etc., these filters should be changed at least once a month.
3. Residents should change theirs every 3 months (at the latest). If you have pets, an older unit, live in a dusty area, or have allergies it is recommended to change more frequently. To be safe, go with every 30 days and leave the 3 months for rare and hectic times.

Maintaining a regular schedule ensures optimal performance of your unit, guaranteeing a comfortable and breathable indoor environment. Additionally, it safeguards your finances by preventing excessive expenditures on repairs, thereby keeping your wallet intact. Consistency in maintenance is key to efficient and cost-effective operation.

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Service Tech, Inc. Is Here for You

Service Tech of Birmingham, AL is here for all your commercial HVAC needs. Whether you’re having issues with heating, cooling, water heater, or refrigeration systems, we have the experience and licensing to help. Even if you just want to know how often you should change your filter, we can help you figure out the best schedule to keep your air at maximum quality.
Our services include commercial installation, commercial air conditioning service, commercial heat pumps, commercial refrigeration, water heaters and plumbing, and indoor air quality assistance. If you need help with any of these, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experts. We’ll make sure your equipment is working in tip-top shape.