It’s not clear why, but most of us think more about our HVAC systems during the hot months than the cold months. One likely reason for this is that it is easier to heat a home than to cool it, so our heating system tends to feel like it works better and thus doesn’t require us to pay as much attention to it as we do our air conditioners, which often struggle to cool the home during particularly hot days.
Unfortunately, that often means that we forget to maintain our HVAC systems as well, particularly with regard to easy fixes we do not have to do very often, such as switching out our air filters. But is this a problem? Do we need to replace our air filters in winter, when there are fewer allergens, less smoke/wildfire, and fewer windows open letting in outdoor pollutants?
The simple answer is yes – changing your HVAC air filter in winter is not only necessary in winter, but often crucial. Maintaining a clean air filter during winter contributes to the efficiency, performance, and longevity of your HVAC system, ensuring your home remains warm, comfortable, and healthy throughout the season.
The Role of HVAC Air Filters in Winter
During winter, HVAC systems are tasked with heating and circulating air throughout homes more frequently, making the role of air filters even more vital. Air filters trap and remove dust, allergens, and other particulates from the air, preventing them from recirculating indoors and clogging the HVAC system. A clean filter ensures that your heating system operates efficiently, providing consistent warmth and improving indoor air quality. It provides:
- Enhanced Efficiency – A clean air filter allows your HVAC system to operate more efficiently, ensuring optimal airflow and reducing the strain on the system. This efficiency is particularly important in winter when heating demands are higher, potentially leading to energy savings on heating costs.
- Improved Indoor Air Quality – With doors and windows typically closed during winter, indoor air quality can deteriorate. Regularly changing your HVAC filter helps remove contaminants from indoor air, contributing to a healthier living environment, especially for individuals with allergies or respiratory issues.
- System Longevity – Clogged or dirty filters can cause your HVAC system to work harder than necessary, leading to increased wear and tear. Changing the filter regularly helps prevent potential system malfunctions or breakdowns, extending the lifespan of your HVAC system.
- Consistent Heating Performance – A dirty air filter can restrict airflow, leading to uneven heating, cold spots, and discomfort within your home. Regular filter changes ensure that heated air is distributed evenly and consistently, maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature.
Even though you may not be thinking about your air filter as much during winter, replacing it is often critical for extending the life of your HVAC and making sure that it works more efficiently.
Recommended Frequency for Changing HVAC Filters in Winter
The frequency of changing your HVAC air filter can depend on several factors, including the type of filter, household size, pet ownership, and indoor air quality. As a general guideline:
- Standard Fiberglass Filters – Consider changing these filters every 30 to 90 days.
- Pleated Air Filters – These higher-quality filters may last 3 to 6 months before needing a change, depending on usage and indoor conditions.
- Homes with Pets or Allergies – If you have pets, allergies, or respiratory conditions, you may need to change your filter more frequently to maintain optimal air quality.
During our maintenance visits here at Cal Energy, we are happy to talk to you about how often to replace your filter and which filters are likely better for your needs.
Professional HVAC Maintenance
In addition to regular filter changes, scheduling professional HVAC maintenance before the onset of winter can ensure your system is prepared for the cold weather. A professional HVAC technician can inspect your system, perform necessary adjustments or repairs, and recommend the best air filter options for your specific needs, enhancing your system’s performance and efficiency throughout the winter months.
Changing your HVAC air filter in winter is essential for maintaining system efficiency, indoor air quality, and comfort. By adhering to recommended filter change intervals and considering professional HVAC maintenance, you can ensure your heating system operates effectively, keeping your home warm and healthy during the colder months. If you’d like more information about our heating maintenance and repair services, please contact Cal Energy, today.