Don’t Forget the Filter: How Often Should You Change Your HVAC Air Filter?

​How often should you change your HVAC air filter?

​Learn how this small task improves air quality, cuts energy bills, and may help avoid costly insurance claims—especially for Texas and Kansas homeowners.

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Changing your HVAC air filter might seem like a small chore, but it plays a big role in protecting your home, your health, and your wallet. Especially in states like Texas—where the A/C runs almost nonstop—and Kansas, where heating systems work overtime in the winter, this simple maintenance task can help extend the life of your HVAC system, lower your utility bills, and reduce potential home insurance risks.

Why Clean Air Filters Matter

1. Healthier Indoor Air
   Air filters trap dust, pollen, pet dander, and airborne particles that affect your home’s air quality. A dirty or clogged filter can circulate these irritants throughout your home, aggravating allergies and respiratory issues—especially during allergy-heavy seasons in both Kansas and Texas.
2. Energy Efficiency and Lower Bills
   When your HVAC filter is dirty, your system has to work harder to push air through. This not only increases your energy consumption but can also lead to overheating and wear on the system—meaning higher energy bills and costly repairs.
3. Preventable System Failures
   Clogged filters can cause frozen coils, system shutdowns, or even water damage from condensation overflow. In many cases, damage resulting from neglected maintenance may not be covered by your home insurance policy, particularly if it's deemed gradual or preventable.

How Often Should You Replace the Filter?
According to Energy.gov, filters should be changed every 30 to 90 days, depending on several factors:

• Number of people in your household
• Whether you have pets
• Allergies or asthma concerns
• Filter thickness and type
• Frequency of system use

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Insurance Tip
While changing your filter won't earn you a discount, it can help prevent insurance headaches. Claims for damage tied to HVAC failure may be denied if it's clear the issue resulted from neglect. Keeping a simple home maintenance log—including filter changes—is a smart move when it comes to protecting your property and showing good homeownership habits to insurance carriers.

Disclaimer:This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional insurance advice. Coverage and eligibility may vary by insurer and state. Contact a licensed insurance agent to discuss your specific policy and maintenance-related concerns.