Is it Time to Change Your Air Filter?
According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air pollution is among the top five environmental health risks. Dust, pet dander, pollen and an array of other elements have been linked to asthma, musty odors, window condensation and even structural rot—all of which can wage war on your health as well as your pocketbook.
Luckily, you can defend yourself and your home with an air filter, the first line of defense in the battle for indoor air quality. But they need to be used properly, which means you need to change your air filter frequently. Here’s are five tips to help you know when it’s time to change your air filter.
When your air filter is dirty
This is simple. Anytime you notice dust and other debris covering the filter in your furnace, it’s time to change your air filter. They can’t work properly if they’re dirty.
When the manufacturer says so
If you’re like most people and don’t frequently pull the filter from your furnace, you can mark your calendar based on manufacturer recommendations. Generally, standard one- or three-inch air filters should be changed every 30 to 60 days.
When summer rolls around
Now that spring is in full swing, you’re probably noticing a lot more dust and dirt in your home. Your doors and windows have been pried open after a long, cold winter in the Northeast—and all the dust and dirt that’s been buried in snow for several months is making its way inside.
When you’re remodeling
Remodeling kicks up a lot of dirt—from sheetrock, sawdust and the comings and goings of contractors. One way to protect your air quality is to change your air filter. When you start sneezing The brutally cold, snowy winter might have pushed back the spring allergy season, but it’s here now.
Contact Sobieski Services for more information about air filters, when to replace them and how they can improve the air quality in your home. Our goal is to help educate our customers in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC & plumbing systems).
Photo Credit: klara.kristina via Compfight cc
