May 30, 2025
How a More Efficient AC Can Save You Up to 40% on Energy Bills
Learn how upgrading to a higher SEER-rated AC can cut your energy bills by up to 40% in Texas.
Your HVAC system is one of the most essential components of your home—working year-round to keep your indoor environment comfortable. One of the simplest but most important maintenance tasks you can perform is replacing the air filter. Doing so regularly can improve your air quality, reduce energy bills, and extend the life of your system.
Below, we’ll walk you through how to change your HVAC air filter, how often to do it, and how to choose the right one for your home.
Your HVAC filter does more than trap dust. It captures allergens, pet dander, and even mold spores from circulating through your home. When it gets clogged, your system has to work harder, driving up energy usage and reducing airflow.
Neglecting filter changes can lead to:
If you're not sure whether your HVAC needs professional attention or just routine care, check out our HVAC maintenance services to keep everything running efficiently.
Changing your HVAC air filter is a simple task most homeowners can handle in under 10 minutes.
Before you begin, always shut off your HVAC system at the thermostat to avoid circulating dust during the change.
Your air filter could be found in:
Check your owner's manual if you're not sure.
Look for the size printed on the frame of your current filter (e.g., 16x25x1). If it’s missing, use a measuring tape to determine length, width, and thickness. Save it in your phone for easy reference.
Pull the old filter out carefully to avoid knocking loose dust into the air.
Install the new filter with the airflow arrow pointing toward the HVAC unit or blower. Proper orientation is crucial for optimal performance.
Once your new filter is in place, replace any covers or latches and restore power to your HVAC system.
Need a hand? Our technicians are happy to help or show you how during a seasonal maintenance visit.
The answer depends on your home and lifestyle. As a general rule:
Your HVAC usage and household environment matter. For example, families with shedding pets or Texas homeowners running AC constantly during hot seasons should change filters more frequently.
To stay ahead, consider our maintenance agreement program, which includes scheduled filter inspections and seasonal tune-ups.
Not all filters are created equal. Here’s what to know:
Most homes use MERV 8 to 11, offering a solid balance between airflow and filtration.
See our guide to indoor air quality services if you’re looking to go beyond just filtration.
It’s easy to forget when your next filter change is due. Consider subscribing to a delivery service to receive the right filters on schedule. You can also set reminders on your phone or smart thermostat.
We recommend keeping one or two spare filters in your utility closet so you're never caught without one.
While changing filters is simple, you should call a professional if:
Air Techs is here to help. Our AC repair technicians can inspect your unit, recommend the right filters, and get your HVAC system running at peak performance.
Changing your HVAC air filter regularly is a small task that makes a big impact. From improving your air quality to extending the life of your system, it's one of the most effective ways to protect your home and comfort.
Need help with your filter—or just want peace of mind all year long? Schedule a maintenance visit with Air Techs today or contact us to get started.
