How often do I change my filters in my commercial HVAC unit?

Changing the filters in your commercial HVAC unit is an important piece of any regular air conditioning maintenance plan. Commercial HVAC air filters are designed to keep allergens and dust out of the air, and provide your employees with cleaner air to breathe, while also ensuring that your air conditioner stays in proper working order. So how often are those filters supposed to be changed? That depends on several factors, but there are a few rules of thumb you should know.

Replace Filters Quarterly

At a bare minimum, all filters should be replaced or cleaned at least quarterly. This is the standard for HVAC units that are used in relatively dry and clean environments such as office spaces. Working environments that are mostly clean and chemical-free can usually be kept in good shape with quarterly replacements without having to worry that the unit is being damaged in the meantime. The best practice is to put this on your calendar for the beginning of each quarter to ensure that it is getting done.

When To Change Your Filter More Often

Any commercial environment that involves chemicals, manufacturing, or lots of outdoor air may need to be changed more often. This is because the byproducts of manufacturing or letting the outdoors inside may build up larger particles on your filters, which block any air from getting through. When this happens, it causes your HVAC to be starved for air, forcing it to work harder and harder. Over time this will burn out your unit and cause a serious commercial HVAC repair.

If you are concerned that your business is producing extra byproducts that could be caught in your filters, it is best to start checking your filter monthly. Depending on what kind of work you are doing you may be able to get by with changing your filter every other month, but for the most intensive manufacturing, you will likely need to change your filter at least monthly. This may sound like a lot of filters to buy, but the cost of these filters will help extend the life of your unit for years to come and could save you thousands and thousands of dollars.

If you are unsure of what to look for in your commercial HVAC air filters, it is best to call your local Phoenix AC service or HVAC contractor and ask for guidance. Day & Night can help you identify the type of filters you need, and what signs you should be watching for that it’s time to change your filter again. Don’t wait til your unit is damaged to start keeping up with filters.