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Do you feel like you’re constantly changing the air filter in your HVAC system? There are a few reasons why air filters clog. Check out these common reasons and what you can do to remedy the situation.

You’re Using a 1-Inch Pleated Filter

These kinds of filters accumulate dirt quicker because they’re meant to catch more airborne particles. The 1-inch filter has small gaps that catch anything that comes its way. While this is great for air quality, it’s not handy if you’re constantly changing the filter. Or, on the flip side, you don’t realize your filter needs cleaning as often. In a case like this, the dirty filter isn’t keeping your air as clean as it’s designed to do. Switch to a thick pleater filter to prevent the constant changes.

You Have Your Air Conditioning Fan Turned On

Is your air conditioner’s indoor blower running 24/7? If so, this means that air is constantly circulating over the air filter. This means that the filter is going to get dirtier more often. It also means that your energy bills are going to skyrocket. Consider turning the thermostat fan setting to auto so that the fan only runs when the heating or cooling system is running.

You Have Leaky Air Ducts

Air ducts that leak pull in air and contaminants from unconditioned spaces. This causes air filters to collect more dust and debris. It also creates a huge strain on the heating and cooling system. If you’re not getting good heating or cooling to the rooms in the home and you have a dirty air filter, have an HVAC technician come to your home to perform a duct inspection. Fix leaky ducts for better HVAC performance and fewer filter changes.

You Have Pets

Pets bring us joy, but they also create a lot of dander in the air. Where does all this dander go? That’s right. It gets trapped in the HVAC air filter. The more pets you have, the more dander and pet fur you have in the air. Just because you don’t see it doesn’t mean it isn’t there. Certainly, you’re not going to get rid of your furry friends. So what can you do? Grooming your pets on a regular basis keeps down the dander and makes your pets more comfortable. However, even if you groom your pets often, it’s not a sure thing that you won’t experience frequent dirty air filters.

You Smoke in the House

If you’re a smoker, don’t smoke in your home. Instead, step outside. Homes where people smoke throughout the day experience dirty filters. If you’re tired of spending money on air filters, cut down on how often you smoke indoors.

In addition to these suggestions, homeowners should consider upgrading their air filters. Ask an HVAC technician for air filter suggestions that last longer than 30 days. Longer lasting filters do tend to be pricier, but they do a better job of cleaning the air and don’t clog quickly. Contact Cox Air to learn more about the different types of air filters for your HVAC system.