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Replacing the filters on your HVAC system as necessary is an important part of maintaining healthy air quality, protecting your system against wear and tear, and keeping air flowing freely for high energy efficiency and a lower risk of your system overheating or freezing over.
Below, the experts at Rick’s Heating and Cooling discuss how to replace air filters, including when you should do so, how to ensure you have the right size, and other decisions you might need to make.
How Often Should You Replace Air Filters
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as it’s a factor of two things: the air quality in your home, which is to say how much dirt, dust, mold, pollen, and other debris is passing through the filter, and the MERV rating of the filter, which is to say how small the openings are and thus how much it’s pulling out of the air that passes through it.
Poor indoor air quality and a high MERV rating can lead to a home that needs to replace air filters every month — or more — while more normal air quality and air filter ratings will have you replacing them once every season. It’s important to check your filter regularly to see how dirty it’s become, in addition to considering manufacturer recommendations on the matter.
How To Find the Right Air Filter
Air filters are largely interchangeable so long as you have the right size, but you’ll need to pay attention to that size — all three dimensions can be different, so make sure you match not just the height and width but the thickness of the current filter. It should be written right on the existing air filter — if not, or if you don’t have one, check your manufacturer’s guide for the right measurements. You should be able to find instructions and measurements online by looking up your model at the maker’s website if all else fails.
You’ll also be choosing MERV ratings, which means understanding your options. MERV ratings range from 1 to 16, with higher numbers removing a larger number of smaller particles. You might also see HEPA filters, which are filters with a particular pleated design rated to remove 99.97% of particles.
A higher MERV rating or a HEPA filter will give you better air quality, but they might need to be replaced much more often. Too high a rating will reduce airflow and put your system under increased strain, increasing energy costs and potentially leading to problems over time. For this reason, most sources recommend a MERV rating between 8 and 10, with homes in need of more stringent air quality improvements going as high as 13.
In almost all cases, filters 14 to 16 and HEPA filters are overkill for a home HVAC system and less efficient and safe than tailored indoor air quality solutions such as air purifiers.
Replacing Your Filter
Once you have your replacement filter in hand and know it’s time to do so, replacing it is almost always a breeze. Most systems come with one of two designs: a slot for your air filter to slide into or a large opening behind an intake grate that you’ll cover with the filter before replacing the grate. If you’re lost on where your filter goes, you should look up the manufacturer’s instructions based on your model.
Fortunately, that’s the entirety of the process — pull the old filter out and put the new one where it was. If your filter is the right size, it shouldn’t require force or effort — at worst, it might be slightly snug, but a properly sized filter shouldn’t be forced.
Get More Help With Your Cincinnati Home’s Air Filters
If you’re lost somewhere in this process or your system needs professional maintenance or repairs, let the experienced HVAC technicians at Rick’s Heating & Cooling deliver outstanding service today. We’re available 24/7 for emergency service, offer free estimates on replacement quotes, and treat every customer like family. So you’ll always have someone you can count on for stress-free HVAC services in the Cincinnati area.
Ready to learn more about our HVAC services or need help replacing air filters today? Contact Rick’s Heating & Cooling now and speak to a team member about your home heating and cooling needs.
