We see it every week.

Service calls that could have been avoided. High energy bills that didn't need to happen. Systems working twice as hard as they should.

And in many cases, the culprit is the same: a dirty HVAC filter.

The good news? This is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to protect your comfort, your air quality, and your heating and cooling system.

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Why Your HVAC Filter Matters More Than You Think

Your HVAC filter does more than just "catch dust." It plays a critical role in:

• Improving indoor air quality
• Protecting your furnace and air conditioner components
• Maintaining proper airflow
• Reducing system strain
• Lowering energy consumption

When the filter becomes clogged, airflow is restricted. That forces your system to work harder, which leads to:

• Higher utility bills
• Uneven temperatures
• Increased wear and tear
• Potential system breakdowns

And in extreme cases? Frozen coils in summer. Overheating furnaces in winter.

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How Often Should You Change Your Filter?

While every home is different, here's a general rule of thumb:

• Every 1-2 months if you have pets
• Every 2-3 months for most households
• Monthly during peak heating and cooling seasons

If you have allergies, pets that shed heavily, or ongoing home renovations, you may need to change it more frequently.

Not sure? Hold it up to the light. If you can't see light passing through easily, it's time.

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Signs Your Filter Needs Changing

Watch for these warning signs:

• Dust buildup around vents
• Increased allergy symptoms
• Weak airflow
• Higher-than-normal energy bills
• System running longer than usual

A dirty filter quietly impacts your comfort before you even realize it.

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Choosing the Right Filter

Not all filters are created equal. The MERV rating determines how effectively a filter captures particles.

For most homes, a MERV 8-11 filter provides excellent balance between airflow and filtration. Higher MERV ratings can restrict airflow if your system isn't designed for them.

When in doubt, follow manufacturer recommendations or ask Reding for recommendations.

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The Real Cost of Skipping This Simple Task

Changing your filter has a low upfront cost. Ignoring it leads to:

• Hundreds in repairs
• Thousands in premature system replacement
• Reduced system lifespan
• Poor indoor air quality

It's one of the smallest maintenance steps with the biggest payoff.

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Pro Tip from Team Reding

Set a recurring reminder in your phone. Or better yet, change your filter at the start of every new season. Small habits prevent big problems.

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Need Help?

If you're unsure what filter size you need, what MERV rating is best, or you suspect your system may already be struggling, Team Reding is always here to help.

Routine maintenance keeps your system efficient, reliable, and ready when you need it most.

Your comfort starts with clean airflow.

Stay proactive. Stay comfortable. Be Ready with Reding.