When it comes to furnace filters, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The frequency of filter replacement depends on the thickness of the filter, the location of your home, the presence of pets, and the age of your system and equipment. Generally, 1-inch to 2-inch filters should be changed every three months, 4-inch filters every six months, and 5-inch filters every 12 months. If you can't see the filter material itself, it must be replaced.
In homes with pets or people with allergies or respiratory conditions, it is recommended to change the filter every 20 to 45 days. Vacation homes or empty houses that aren't used much can wait to change filters every 9 to 12 months. If you have a dusty and dry climate, you should consider changing the filter every 60 days or 2 months. When it comes to oven filters, they are not needed in all HVAC systems.
If you have an oven filter, it should be changed regularly to prevent dust from circulating around the house and causing the oven to overheat or burn out from working hard to expel air. To change an oven filter, loosen the screws that hold the filter cover in place if it is behind a return vent or simply remove the filter from a slot if it is on the side of the oven. If you rarely leave your heating fan on, you can replace the filter approximately every 90 days or more for thicker filters. During a remodeling project, replace the furnace filter every 30 days, or even more frequently.
If you like to open your doors and windows frequently during warm seasons, you'll need to replace thinner filters once a month and thicker filters at least every three months. If you want to learn more about oven maintenance and want a professional HVAC specialist to help ensure your system is operating effectively, contact Hoffner Heating and Air Conditioning today.
