How Often Should You Change Your Air Filters?

Air filters play a crucial role in your home’s HVAC system. Not just for providing a clean and healthy indoor environment, but also for the efficiency and longevity of your heating and cooling equipment. (Tip: changing your air filters can help you save on energy bills!)

That said, it’s easy to overlook air filter maintenance. Especially when you’re not sure where your filters are located or how to change them. So, to help you get familiar with your HVAC system’s air filters, let’s explore:

We’ll also review the benefits of professional HVAC maintenance. Amidst our busy lives, it pays to have routine AC and heating check-ups done by trusted professionals.

Given the hot and arid desert conditions where dust and fine particles are prevalent, Phoenix homeowners need to be proactive about changing their AC filters. We recommend checking your AC filter every month and replacing it every 1-2 months.

This is especially important during peak usage months like summer when your AC system is working harder to keep your home cool. Additionally, if you have pets, live near construction sites, or experience higher levels of indoor pollutants, more frequent filter changes may be necessary.

To learn more, check out our blog, “Where Is My AC Filter Located and How Do I Change It?”

It's generally recommended to change your furnace filter at least once every three months. More frequent replacements will likely be needed in a household whose members suffer from asthma or allergies or in any home where pets are present.

Just like with an AC filter, you should be able to tell if your furnace filter is ready for a change with a visual inspection or by checking the airflow: changes in color or limitations in the outward flow of air are indicators that your filter is dirty. Indirect signals like rising energy bills, an accelerated dust buildup in your home, or strange smells are also telltale signs.

You should replace your heat pump’s air filter twice a year, at least. Again, this will depend on the details of who lives in your home and what their specific needs are.

One of the unmistakable signs that you need to change out your heat pump filter is when you notice a reduction in its ability to effectively warm or cool the house. This is typically caused by the filter becoming clogged with debris that constricts air circulation.

Regular HVAC maintenance from trained professionals is one of the best and easiest ways to protect your HVAC system from unnecessary strain caused by clogged air filters. When an experienced technician has a chance to inspect, clean, and optimize your HVAC system, they can let you know if and when replacement parts– including air filter replacements– are necessary. Plus, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your warranty stays valid (most manufacturers require annual tune-ups to keep warranties intact).

To make annual maintenance even easier, many HVAC companies offer maintenance plans that provide yearly tune-ups and automated reminders. Whenever you’re due for a check-up, you’ll get a friendly text or email letting you know.

Head to our maintenance plan page to learn more about our VIP Maintenance Policy. Members enjoy annual 56-point tune-ups, discounts on repairs, pricing specials, and more!