If you’re a homeowner in Florida, you know that your air conditioning system works overtime to keep you cool, especially during the hot and humid months. One of the easiest yet most crucial tasks you can do to keep your HVAC system running smoothly is changing your air filter regularly. But how often should you do this in Florida’s unique climate?
At Big Air AC, we recommend changing your air filter more frequently in Florida compared to other areas. Here’s what you need to know about air filter maintenance and how often you should swap it out to keep your system running efficiently.
1. The General Rule: Every 30-90 Days
As a general guideline, it’s recommended to change your air filter every 30 to 90 days. However, there are several factors specific to Florida that might require more frequent changes. Florida’s high humidity, the constant use of air conditioning, and environmental factors like pollen and mold can all affect how quickly your filter gets clogged.
Here’s a breakdown of common scenarios:
Every 30 Days: If you have pets, allergies, or live in a particularly humid or dusty area, it’s best to change your air filter every 30 days.
Every 60 Days: If you don’t have pets and no one in the home has allergies, changing the filter every two months is a safe bet.
Every 90 Days: If you live in a low-occupancy home or rarely use your HVAC system (which is rare in Florida), you can wait up to three months before changing the filter.
2. Consider Florida’s Humidity
Florida’s high humidity levels mean that your HVAC system is often working harder to remove moisture from the air. This can cause your air filter to collect more dust and debris at a faster rate. A clogged filter forces your AC to work harder, reducing efficiency and increasing energy costs. In humid areas like Fort Myers, changing your filter every 30 to 60 days is often necessary to keep your system running efficiently.
3. The Impact of Pollen and Mold
Florida is notorious for its year-round pollen production and high mold growth due to the humidity. Pollen and mold spores can accumulate in your air filter more quickly than in drier climates, especially if you or anyone in your household suffers from allergies. If you notice that allergy symptoms are worsening, it’s a sign that your air filter may need changing more frequently—perhaps even every month during peak pollen seasons.
4. If You Have Pets
If you have pets, especially ones that shed, you’ll need to change your air filter more frequently—every 30 days is recommended. Pet dander and fur can quickly clog an air filter, reducing airflow and making your system work harder to keep your home cool. Regular filter changes help improve indoor air quality and prevent your system from being overworked.
5. Seasonal Changes
In Florida, many homeowners run their air conditioning nearly year-round. However, there are times, such as during cooler winter months, when your AC might not be running as often. During these periods of lighter use, you may be able to extend the life of your air filter. Still, it’s a good idea to check the filter every 60 days to ensure it’s clean and ready when the hotter months return.
6. What Happens If You Don’t Change Your Air Filter?
Failing to change your air filter regularly can lead to several issues:
Reduced Efficiency: A clogged filter restricts airflow, making your AC work harder and reducing its energy efficiency. This leads to higher utility bills.
Poor Indoor Air Quality: A dirty filter can’t effectively trap dust, pollen, and other allergens, allowing them to circulate throughout your home.
Shortened System Lifespan: Overworking your system due to a clogged filter can lead to wear and tear on components, shortening the life of your HVAC unit.
Increased Risk of Breakdowns: Blocked airflow can cause your system to overheat, leading to potential breakdowns or expensive repairs.
How to Check Your Air Filter
To avoid these issues, check your air filter regularly, especially if you live in a humid area like Fort Myers. To check it:
Turn off your HVAC system.
Remove the air filter.
Hold it up to the light—if you can’t see light through it or it looks dirty and clogged, it’s time to change it.
Need Help? Big Air AC Can Assist!
If you’re unsure how often you should change your air filter or want to schedule routine maintenance to keep your HVAC system in top shape, contact Big Air AC. Our team of experienced technicians can guide you through filter changes and help ensure your air conditioning system is running efficiently all year long.
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