It’s one of the simplest maintenance items in your home—and one of the easiest to forget.
The HVAC filter.
Its job is straightforward: capture airborne particles before they circulate through the HVAC system. As those particles accumulate, however, the filter becomes increasingly restrictive.
A severely dirty filter can reduce airflow and make heating or cooling equipment work harder to maintain the desired temperature.
That’s why changing an HVAC filter isn’t simply about keeping dust out of the house. It’s part of routine care for one of the most expensive mechanical systems in your home.
How often should you change it?
There’s no universal answer. Filter type, manufacturer recommendations, pets, household activity, allergies and operating conditions all matter. Rather than automatically assuming “every 90 days,” homeowners should follow the recommendations for their particular filter and HVAC equipment and periodically look at the filter’s actual condition.
There’s another surprisingly common issue: installing the filter backward.
Most filters have an airflow arrow printed on the frame. That arrow should point in the direction the air travels through the system—typically toward the blower.
Before leaving home for an extended period, checking the HVAC filter is particularly worthwhile. Your heating and cooling system will continue operating while you’re gone, even though no one is there to notice reduced airflow or unusual operation.
Homeowner Tip
Write the installation date on the edge of the new filter before installing it. Also keep a photograph of the filter size on your phone. You’ll always know what to purchase.
Concierge Connection
For homeowners who are away or simply prefer not to handle routine household tasks, replacement of homeowner-supplied HVAC filters can be coordinated as part of Hoosier Home Watch Service’s Concierge Services.
We don’t service or diagnose HVAC equipment. If our observations suggest the system warrants professional attention, we’ll recommend contacting a qualified HVAC contractor.
The Little Things Matter.
Many routine home maintenance tasks can be completed as part of Hoosier Home Watch Service’s Concierge Services. Whether you’re traveling, managing a second home, or simply prefer spending your weekends enjoying life instead of tackling household chores, we’re here to
help.
Small maintenance today can help prevent expensive repairs tomorrow.
