Five Situations That Call For Frequent Changes Of AC Filters
How often should you change your air conditioner's (AC) air filters? Many people know that the frequency depends on the type of filter. For example, 1- to 3-inch filters are supposed to be replaced once every two months. However, that frequency only applies to homes that don't experience dirtier-than-normal air. If the air in your home tends to be dirtier than normal, then the frequency needs to be higher than that. For example, you should replace the filters more frequently under these circumstances:
You Live Near a Quarry
Even if the quarry is following federal and local authority regulations to the letter, it will still spew considerable dust into the air. Every time an earthmover digs up the ground or cracks a rock, some tiny pieces are likely to end up in your home. Your AC filter will do everything in its power to block the dust from the air you breathe, which is why you will need to change it regularly.
There Is a Construction Site Nearby
Just like quarries, construction sites are also notorious for polluting the air. Sand particles, cement dust, paint, sawdust, and slivers of metals are just a few examples of debris from construction sites. Therefore, that residential high-rise being developed in your neighborhood means you shouldn't wait for six months to change the filters.
You Have Pets
Animals will not kick up dust into the air, but they shed off considerable pet dander. You may not see the tiny bits of hair or fur from your four-legged friends, but the AC filters will definitely handle them. Therefore, if you are soon bringing home a dog or a cat, budget for more frequent filter changes too.
You Live On a Farm or Ranch
Living on the farm or ranch may be peaceful, but the air does carry more debris (of the size that clogs filters) than in other places. Tractors tilling the land, horses galloping in the field, and pigs rooting in the dirt – all those things stir up considerable dirt, which ends up in the AC filters. Regularly changing the filters is the best way to ensure the system keeps operating optimally.
There Are Frequent Wildfires in Your Area
Wildfires don't have to burn down your fence or even get anywhere near your home to affect you; they can do that from afar. A typical wildfire spews considerable ash into the air, and a good volume of it will end up in your AC's filters. Therefore, if your neighborhood isn't a stranger to wildfires, do your AC system a favor by changing the filters regularly.
As you can see, there isn't a magic number as to how many times you should change your AC filters every year. It all depends on how fast they get clogged, which you should anticipate rather than wait to happen.