To prevent inefficiencies with heating system performance and keep utility costs from skyrocketing, property owners are often advised to replace furnace air filters once a month or every three months. According to the furnace repair specialists at Long's Air Conditioning & Refrigeration in Silverhill, AL, there are special circumstances where more frequent maintenance might be in order. Below, Baldwin County’s premier heating contractors share three factors that affect how often you should replace furnace filters. 

Furnace Repair Experts Explain Which Factors Impact Your Filter Replacement Schedule

You Own Pets

Although regular vacuuming will remove pet hair from carpets, upholstered furniture, and additional surfaces, fur can easily infiltrate HVAC equipment. In homes with animals, 1- or 2-inch filters should be changed monthly. In homes with thicker filters, less frequent upkeep is required. Swap out 4-inch filters every two months and 5-inch models at the three-month mark.    

People Smoke Indoors

Smoking cigarettes doesn’t only harm your health. The thick tobacco smoke can also wreak havoc on your heating system. Tar from the tobacco can clog the furnace filter, forcing equipment to work harder to circulate warm air throughout the space. If several people in the household smoke indoors, replace a 1- or 2-inch filter once a month, 4-inch filters once every other month, and 5-inch filters once every three months. In homes with only one smoker, a 1- or 2-inch filter can be replaced once every two months. Any 4-inch filters should be replaced once every four months, while you can wait six months before swapping out 5-inch filters.

The Heat Fan Is Always Running

Some people keep the heat fan running to continuously blow warm air throughout the space. If you keep the blower motor running, change a 1- or 2-inch filter once a month, 4-inch filter once every two months, and 5-inch filter every three months. Otherwise, consult your furnace repair specialist for maintenance recommendations for your specific system. 

For efficient, reliable heating and air services and seasonal maintenance tips to improve the comfort and air quality of your home or commercial space, look to Long's Air Conditioning & Refrigeration for assistance. The AC and furnace repair technicians have the training and experience to extend the life span of your HVAC system. To schedule a service appointment in Silverhill or the surrounding areas, call (251) 947-9499 today. Visit the company online to discover the many ways they will improve equipment performance, and like them on Facebook for updated news.

License AL #94143 & #50700