It is recommended that you change most HVAC filters every 30 to 60 days. However, after letting this time lapse, you may notice that your filter is completely full. If this is the case, you should change your filter more quickly. But this may leave you wondering why your HVAC filter gets dirty so quickly. Here are a few of the top reasons why this happens. 

You Have Pets

If you have pets, you can expect to have to have to change your HVAC filters more frequently than someone who does not have a pet. And the more pets you have, the more frequently you may have to replace the filter. The reason for this is that pet hair, fur, dander and even their skin cells, can float around in the air, eventually making their way into your filter. If you have a pet with long hair or fur that sheds a lot, you should not be surprised if you have to replace your HVAC filter often. 

You Need Your Ducts Cleaned

Another reason why your HVAC filter may be getting dirty quickly is because you need to have your ducts cleaned. Ductwork carries heated or cooled air from your HVAC unit into the vents in your home where the air is distributed to your home. This air travels directly from the ductwork and then through the HVAC filter. If the ducts are filled with dirt, dust and other particles, it pushes these items into the filter, causing it to become fuller quickly. Duct cleaning helps to remove built up dirt and dust from the ducts, helping to keep your filters cleaner longer. 

The Filter Has a High MERV Rating

The last reason why your HVAC filter may be getting dirty quickly is because the filter you have purchased has a high MERV rating. The higher the MERV rating, the smaller the particles that can be trapped by the filter. If you have someone with allergies, you may want a filter with a higher MERV rating to prevent allergens from entering your home. However, the downside to this is that the filter will fill up faster because it is able to trap more. 

It is important to replace the HVAC filter regularly. This helps clean air to flow into your home. If your filter is becoming dirty regularly and you are positive none of these issues are the cause, you may want to have an HVAC inspection completed. A dirty HVAC unit or one that is poorly maintained may also be letting more dirt and dust in, causing the filters to become fuller faster. Contact a service, like Controlled Comfort, for more help.

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