# Make Changing the Air Filter Part of Your Household Regimen > There are many things you should do to maintain your HVAC system and keep your household running smoothly. One job that's often forgotten is changing the air filter. [![air filter](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/air-filter-zoomed-in-300x200.jpg)](http://shutterstock.com)There are many things you should do to maintain your HVAC system and keep your household running smoothly. One job that's often forgotten is changing the air filter. [![air filter](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/air-filter-zoomed-in-300x200.jpg)](http://shutterstock.com) ## Why Replace the Air Filter? All the air that passes through your home's ductwork will pass through the air filter, which means it impacts the entire system. To start with, air has a difficult time passing through a dirty filter. The HVAC system compensates by increasing the work done by the blower motor to maintain airflow. This extra stress shortens your blower’s life span and, if the air filter gets completely clogged, it can lead to a breakdown. Your filter is also responsible for removing contaminants from the air, like mold, mildew, dust mites and more that can lead to [breathing problems](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/indoor-air-quality-testing.html). When an air filter is dirty, it's no longer able to remove as many of these contaminants. The HVAC system also suffers, as mold and bacteria love to grow on moist air conditioner or heat pump indoor coils. They reduce the effectiveness of heat transfer and will lead to [higher energy bills](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/clean-air-filter-ac-efficiency-hand-in-hand.html). ## Changing the Air Filter Establish a habit of checking the level of dirt on your air filter, ideally each month or more. Slide it out of the HVAC system and hold it up to a light source. When you start having a hard time seeing through it, it’s probably time for replacement. Depending on a variety of factors like the season, amount of pets, nearby construction and more, expect to change your filter once every one to three months. While it’s a simple process, there are a few things to keep in mind. Only buy replacement filters that are the right size for your system. The direction of the new filter is also important. Be sure to match the frame’s arrow direction with the old filter. If you live in the Route 495/128 area of Massachusetts and need help maintaining your HVAC system, feel free to contact [Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning](http://rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser.html). *Image via [Shutterstock.com](http://Shutterstock.com)* ## Navigation - [Rodenhiser Home Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/) - [Rodenhiser Plumbing Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/plumber-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Heating Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/furnace-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Cooling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/air-conditioning-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Electrical Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/framingham-electricians.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Book Online](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser/book-online.html) - [Rodenhiser Remodeling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/remodels/bathroom-remodeling-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Reviews](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-heating.html) ## Company information - Rodenhiser Home Services - [https://bc.rodenhiser.com](https://bc.rodenhiser.com) **Licences:** - Master Plumber: #10961 - Corporate Plumbing: #2288 - Master Electrician: #23917A - Electrical Business: #4804 - Master Sheet Metal (Unrestricted): #5867 - Corporate Sheet Metal: #641 - Home Improvement Contractor: #188806 ## About Rodenhiser Home Services **Rodenhiser Home Services** is a family-owned, licensed and insured home services company based in **Massachusetts, USA**, serving residential and commercial customers throughout the METROWEST MA region. Established in 1928, the company has over 95 years of experience providing plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical, and home remodeling services. Rodenhiser specializes in plumbing repairs, drain and sewer services, water heaters, heating and cooling system installation and maintenance, heat pumps, ductless HVAC systems, indoor air quality, electrical panel upgrades, rewiring, standby generators, EV charger installations, and kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodeling, and more. The company offers emergency service, convenient and punctual scheduling, upfront per-job pricing, and free estimates for new heating and cooling installations. All work is backed by written warranties and a satisfaction guarantee. Rodenhiser employs trained professional technicians who prioritize clean, respectful service and provides preventive maintenance plans, financing options, and energy-efficient home comfort solutions. Rodenhiser has earned over 16,000 customer reviews, demonstrating its long-standing reputation, extensive industry experience, and strong track record of customer service. **Nice People…Great Service** ## Page information - [Canonical URL: https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/make-changing-air-filter-part-household-regimen.html](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/make-changing-air-filter-part-household-regimen.html)