Maintaining a sparkling home is no easy task. But staying on top of air cleaner filter replacement is one way to ensure your home stays fresher for longer. A clean filter will help trap dust and other allergens, preventing them from circulating back through your home air. But how do you know when you need to replace that filter? The Bryant® pros at S&R Heating & Cooling have the answers below. Call us with your indoor air quality questions and concerns at 651-429-0001.

How Does an Air Cleaner Filter Work?

Air passes through your air cleaner and the filter inside it, which traps harmful particles including pollen, dirt, and dust. The result is cleaner air that’s free of most harmful, irritating airborne pollutants. In addition to dirt and germs, these filters can also absorb odors and chemicals to maintain and even improve the freshness of your indoor air.

To maximize their efficiency, you should replace your air cleaner filter on a regular basis—usually once every three months. You may need to replace them more frequently, however, especially if you notice some of the issues below.

Signs That Your Air Cleaner Filter Needs Replacement

Besides age, here are a few other signs that indicate your air cleaner filter needs prompt replacement:

1. The filter is visibly dirty

It might go without saying, but if your air cleaner filter is visibly dirty, gray, and dusty, replace it immediately.

2. Your air smells musty

If your indoor air is suddenly smelling less than fresh, there’s a good chance your filter is clogged and needs to be changed.

3. Increased allergy or respiratory symptoms

If anyone in your home is suddenly suffering from increased allergy symptoms or is experiencing other respiratory issues, your air cleaner filter could be the cause. Switch it out to see if it helps improve symptoms.

4. Pet hair accumulation

It may seem like your pet’s hair is always showing up everywhere. But if you start to notice it even more than normal, it could indicate your filter is clogged. In general, pet owners should replace their filters even more frequently than every three months.

5. Unusual noises

If your unit is making loud or strange noises, it may mean the air is having a hard time pushing through the system. Check your filter to see if it’s causing a blockage.

Achieve Fresher, Cleaner Air With S&R Heating

S&R Heating services and repairs indoor air quality systems of all kinds, including furnaces, air conditioners, and air purifiers. Whether you’re looking for a new system installation or have questions about one that’s already in place, we can help! Call us today at 651-429-0001 or send us a message online.