4 Telltale Signs You Need a New Air Filter Installed

Did you know that up to 90% of the world’s population gets exposed to harmful levels of polluted air? Or that outdoor air pollution claims an estimated 4.2 million lives each year?

All that should be enough reason to invest in a new air filter for your home. After all, outdoor air can easily enter your home and contaminate indoor air. As if that’s not enough, indoor air can harbor two to five times more pollutants than ambient air.

How exactly can you tell that you need a fresh air filter, though? Are there are any specific signs and symptoms you need to be on the lookout for?

We’ll dish out the answers below, so be sure to read on!

1. More Frequent Allergy or Asthma Attacks

In the US alone, at least 50 million people have some form of allergy. Another 24 million have asthma. Airborne irritants are some of the primary triggers of such health conditions.

Your space heater’s or air conditioner’s air filter help minimize these airborne pollutants. They trap pollen, mold spores, and other particles to keep them from circulating in the air.

Depending on how polluted your indoor air is, it can take as little as one month for your HVAC filter to get filthy. Therefore, increased allergy or asthma attacks are some of the health signs you need a new air filter.

2. Eye, Nose, and Throat Irritation Have Become the Norm

Even healthy people can suffer from allergy-like symptoms due to polluted air. These include sneezing, runny nose, scratchy throat, or red, itchy eyes. Dizziness, fatigue, and even headaches may also occur due to indoor air pollution.

So, be sure to check your air filter (do this at least once a month) to gauge how dirty it is. A still-usable filter should be see-through if you place it against the light. If there’s too much debris in it, replace it or use an air filter cleaner if you have a washable filter.

3. Residue Build-up by Air Vents

Dirty air filters can no longer catch “new” pollutants and may even let some of them pass through. The particles can then circulate in your home if your HVAC system blows air through air ducts. However, vent grilles can block some of the dust and debris, so they build-up on these areas instead.

If your air vents are showing signs of filth, you likely need a fresh air filter.

4. You Can’t Remember Your Last Filter Change

Most heater and AC filters require replacement after one to two months. However, you should change them more often if you have pets or live near a busy road or construction site. If you can’t remember the last time you did, that’s a solid sign you should change or wash them up.

Breathe Easy With a New Air Filter

You don’t have to wait for your air filter to get so clogged up that your health already suffers. As much as possible, get a new air filter (or wash up a reusable one) at least once a month. This way, you can reduce the risks of health symptoms associated with polluted indoor air.

Looking for more health, home, or automobile guides like this? Feel free to stay and browse our other news and blog posts then!