Home Care Challenge: New Filters for a Fresh Start
Why Replacing HVAC Filters Matters
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Last year, I started with the best intentions of keeping up with one of those grown-up responsibilities—regularly replacing our HVAC filters. I even subscribed to have Amazon send me filters on a schedule. Very responsible, right?
Well… either my math skills failed me, and I accidentally over-ordered, or (more likely) I forgot to change them more than twice. Let’s just say the filters were not the only things collecting dust. Oops!
But here’s the silver lining: my overstocked filter stash means I’m all set for this year. So, 2025 is off to a fresh start—literally!
My 2025 Solution: Calendar Reminders
This year, I’m using my calendar to keep me on track. I’ve set a recurring reminder for the second-to-last Friday of every quarter to replace our filters.
Why Friday? It’s usually a quieter day for me at work, making it the perfect time to tackle a quick home maintenance task during lunch.
Customizing these reminders around my schedule feels like the key to actually sticking to them. No more last-minute, “Did we change the filter this season?” moments!
Why Replacing HVAC Filters Matters
Your HVAC filter is the unsung hero of your home, working tirelessly to:
Keep the air you breathe clean.
Help your HVAC system run efficiently, saving you money on energy bills.
Neglecting this simple task can lead to higher energy costs, poor air quality, and unnecessary wear on your system.
When and How to Replace Your HVAC Filters
The frequency depends on factors like your environment and the type of MERV filter you’re using. As a general rule, aim to replace them every 1–3 months. Here’s a quick guide based on your home setup:
For Air Return Vents/Grids:
Locate the vent (usually on a wall or ceiling—some homes have more than one).
Turn off the temperature control unit to avoid blowing dust.
Open the vent, remove the used filter, and replace it with a new one.
Pro Tip: The arrow on the filter should point in the direction the air flows.Clean the vent’s exterior with a microfiber cloth or vacuum brush.
Turn the unit back on.
For Air Handlers/Furnaces:
Turn off the unit.
Remove the old filter and insert a new one, ensuring the arrow points with the airflow.
Turn the unit back on.
Keep It Professional
While you’re at it, don’t forget to have your HVAC system inspected by a professional once or twice a year. It ensures everything’s running efficiently and catches potential issues early.
Pro Tip: We have a service agreement with Michael’s & Sons, which includes reminders for HVAC servicing, plus a bunch of other home maintenance tasks (e.g., water heater cleaning and flushing, electrical inspection, etc.). It’s an upfront expense, but it’s saved me from forgetting important maintenance—and I don’t feel pressured to accept every repair or upgrade they suggest.
HVAC filters may not be glamorous, but they’re crucial to a clean, efficient home. Let’s make this the year we keep up with them, one reminder at a time.
Happy cleaning!
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Products I use to tackle this week’s weekly home care challenge: