We get a lot of questions from customers about air filters – primarily about how often air filters should be changed. The answer varies by season.
For instance, it’s peak mountain cedar season in San Antonio and the Hill Country right now. So if you suffer from cedar allergies, we recommend changing your filter every two weeks. This is simply from a health standpoint – you don’t want those pollens trapped in your filter.
During the peak summer and winter months, you want to change your air filter at least once a month. This is from an energy standpoint. You want your filter as clean as possible so the airflow in your home isn’t restricted. If your filter is dirty, it means your San Antonio air conditioning system is choked and struggling to get air.
It’s still a good habit to change your filter every month during the off-peak months. It never hurts to have a clean air filter. But most guides say you can get away with changing the filter every 2-3 months during these months.
There is a condition to these scenarios – if you have indoor pets. You need to regularly check your filter if you’re a pet owner. Pet hair can cause big problems with an air filter and severely block airflow. So if you have an indoor dog or cat, get into the habit of changing your filter once a month and checking it more often than that.
Finally, here’s a good video that walks you through the process of changing out your air filter.

Ben Hubbert
Ben is a retired Combat Controller with the United States Air Force. He started Champion AC in 2007. Ben is originally from the Mississippi Gulf Coast. He is happily married and an avid fan of the San Antonio Spurs and New Orleans Saints.