When most people think about furnace maintenance, they picture frigid winter days and heating bills, not sweltering summer heat. You may already diligently switch or clean the unit’s filters to keep things efficient during the cold season. But do you need to change a furnace filter in summer, too?
Yes! You absolutely need to change your furnace filter in summer. Even when your furnace isn’t actively heating your home, the filter plays a critical role in maintaining airflow and protecting your HVAC system! The furnace filter could keep indoor air healthy during the cooling season – or ruin it if you neglect to replace it when it’s clogged.
Cooper’s Plumbing & Air helps homeowners from Bainbridge to Tallahassee keep heating and cooling systems running efficiently year-round. Here’s more about your furnace filter.
Why Should You Change a Furnace Filter in Summer?
Southern Georgia and Northwest Florida experience long, hot, humid summers. Your air conditioning system is likely running nonstop to cool your home. All that air passes through the same filter your unit uses during the heating season, so a dirty filter can compromise your entire system, even if the furnace isn’t running.
Your HVAC System Uses Shared Components
Most HVAC systems have air conditioners and furnaces that share a blower motor and air handler. Air passes through the furnace components year-round, so its filter continues to trap dust, pollen, pet hair, and airborne particles through the summer.
Clogged Filters Reduce Energy Efficiency
A dirty filter restricts airflow, forcing the blower and air conditioning system to work harder. You might get higher electricity bills, uneven cooling, and more system breakdowns.
Higher Humidity Increases Pollutant Buildup
Southern Georgia’s high humidity contributes to mold, mildew, and dust mite growth. A fresh filter is your first line of defense, so regular summer furnace filter replacements are crucial. If you have pets, live with allergy sufferers, or have nearby construction or wooded areas, you need to change the filter more often.
What’s the Difference Between a Furnace Filter and an Air Conditioner Filter?
Do you need to change a furnace filter in summer? What about the other filters? Some homeowners are surprised to learn that in most central HVAC systems, the furnace filter, air conditioner filter, and HVAC filter are one and the same.
Whether you’re using your heating function or the cooling system, the air intake filters through one main return-side filter before recirculating. Changing the furnace filter in summer directly impacts your hard-working air conditioner’s performance.
How Often Should You Replace the Filter in Summer?
Knowing how frequently to change an air filter can vary depending on your filter type, household environment, and system usage. Here’s a general guide:
- 1-inch fiberglass filters: Every 30 to 60 days
- 1 to 2-inch pleated filters: Every 60 to 90 days
- 4 to 5-inch high-efficiency filters: Every six to 12 months
During heavy summer use in Southern Georgia, check your filter every 30 days. Don’t rely solely on the manufacturer’s schedule. If your filter looks dirty, gray, or clogged, replace it.
Why HVAC Filter Maintenance in Summer Is a Must in Georgia and Florida
The importance of summer AC filter maintenance becomes clearer once you consider how hard your system works during peak cooling months. When your air filter change frequency isn’t on the money, here’s what happens:
- Restricted airflow makes your AC compressor and blower work harder, increasing wear and tear.
- Dust and dirt bypass clogged filters and settle on indoor coils, reducing cooling efficiency.
- Indoor air quality suffers, leading to worsened allergy symptoms and poor humidity control.
- System failure becomes more likely, especially when the strain causes coils to freeze or motors to overheat.
In short, you’ll pay more for indoor comfort than you need to.
Maintain Your Furnace Correctly — Even in Summer
Your furnace isn’t producing heat during the summer. However, some of its core parts still operate, especially the blower and electrical connections. If you want to avoid premature failure or costly repairs when colder weather returns, keep your system in shape as follows:
Keep the Area Around the Furnace Clear
Avoid storing boxes or flammable materials near your furnace. Dust and clutter increase fire risk and reduce system airflow.
Vacuum and Visually Inspect the Unit
Look for signs of rust, corrosion, pests, or moisture. Double-check humid areas like basements or closets.
Run a Pre-Season Furnace Test
Do you need to change a furnace filter in summer? Yes, and then test it before you use it. Switch your thermostat to heat mode in early fall, and let the furnace run for 10 to 15 minutes to catch potential issues.
You can also try these summertime strategies:
- Use a smart thermostat. Optimize cooling cycles and reduce fan operation.
- Check your condensate drain. Ensure moisture is draining properly.
- Install a dehumidifier. Maintaining ideal humidity levels eases the HVAC’s burden.
You might also consider upgrading to a MERV 11 filter for better allergen control. Check that your system can handle the airflow resistance first.
Schedule Seasonal Furnace Care With the Professionals
Seasonal furnace care isn’t just a winter thing. At Cooper’s Plumbing & Air, we recommend professional system inspections and tune-ups before the cooling and heating seasons. Let certified technicians inspect and clean the system’s major heating and cooling components so it is fully prepared for its seasonal shift.
Routine maintenance includes:
- Filter replacement or guidance on choosing one
- Cleaning the blower and checking belts, bearings, and electrical connections
- Inspecting the heat exchanger for cracks (gas furnaces)
- Maintaining cooling components like the compressor and coils
- Checking safety systems, including gas connections
The technician will also calibrate the thermostat.
Trust Cooper’s Plumbing & Air for Expert HVAC Maintenance All Year Long
Do you need to change a furnace filter in summer? Yes, because it’s not just about efficient heating – the filter maintains air quality and HVAC system health year-round.
Call Cooper’s Plumbing & Air today at (866) 464-7132 to schedule service! We’ve provided reliable HVAC solutions for years in the area. Whether you need help with summertime furnace filter replacement, a fall furnace tune-up, or comprehensive HVAC maintenance, give us a call!