Spring is in the air, and so is pollen, dust, and who knows what else! While you’re busy decluttering closets and scrubbing baseboards, don’t forget about your cooling system. One of the easiest (yet most overlooked) ways to improve your home’s air quality and keep your system running efficiently is by changing your air filters.
Not sure why it matters or how to pick the right filter? Let’s break it all down!
Why Changing Your Air Filter Is a Must
Your air filter is your home’s first line of defense against dust, pet dander, allergens, and airborne contaminants. Over time, it gets clogged with all that gunk, which can lead to:
Poor Indoor Air Quality – A dirty filter can’t trap pollutants effectively, leading to dustier air and more sneezing fits.
Higher Energy Bills – A clogged filter forces your system to work harder, consuming more energy and increasing utility costs.
System Strain – Restricted airflow can cause your system to overheat or freeze up, potentially leading to costly repairs.
Inconsistent Home Comfort – Weak airflow means some rooms might feel too hot or too cold, making your home less comfortable.
How Often Should You Change Your Air Filter?
This depends on a few factors:
- Every 1-2 months if you have pets or allergies.
- Every 3 months for the average home without pets.
A good rule of thumb? Check your filter monthly; if it looks dirty, swap it out!
What’s the Deal with MERV Ratings?
If you’ve ever shopped for air filters, you’ve probably seen MERV ratings (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value). This number tells you how effectively a filter can trap particles.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
🔹 MERV 1-4: Basic filters that capture larger particles like dust and lint. Affordable but not great for improving air quality.
🔹 MERV 5-8: Mid-range filters that trap mold spores, pet dander, and finer dust. Good for most homes.
🔹 MERV 9-12: High-efficiency filters that capture even smaller allergens, great for allergy sufferers.
🔹 MERV 13-16: Hospital-grade filters that trap bacteria, smoke, and tiny pollutants. Not always recommended for home use unless your system is designed for it.
Make Filter Changes a Breeze with C&C
Changing your air filter is a small task with big benefits, and spring is the perfect time to start fresh. Need help picking the right filter? C&C Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing & Electric is here to keep your home comfortable and your air clean. Call us to today at 732-860-2660 to schedule your appointment!