Water and air filtration are critical components of home maintenance routines but are often overlooked. Because the filters are typically in designated closets or smaller spaces, they are easy to ignore. Common mistakes include improper installation, not changing them on time, and purchasing the wrong filter sizes.

Not replacing water and air filters can lead to bacteria growth, health issues, and increased strain on appliances, ultimately driving up utility bills. Regarding filtration system maintenance, it is better to be proactive than reactive. Routine maintenance provides many benefits, from financial savings to a healthier living environment, and enables appliances to operate correctly.

The True Cost of Ignoring Filter Replacements

Regular filter replacement should be done every six months for water and every three months for air. This practice is crucial for health and efficiency and is often more important than buying expensive filters while neglecting routine replacement. Ignoring this task can significantly increase utility bills, cause potential system breakdowns due to extra strain on components, and reduce air or water quality.

A common misconception is that expensive filters last longer when, in reality, frequent replacement of basic filters is often more effective. Air filters allow HVAC units to intake more air and stop harmful contaminants from entering the home, offering many benefits, including allergen control. Water filtration systems are even more important in homes with hard or well water, as they provide healthier and softer drinking and shower water. Improper installation of these systems and failure to replace the filters regularly prevent them from working efficiently, forcing filtration systems to work harder, which could lead to costly repairs. 

Water Filtration: More Than Just Clean Drinking Water

A whole-house filtration system treats all the water entering a home, applying a broader range of protection for refrigeration, faucets, and showers. Targeted filtration systems focus on specific locations, such as kitchen sinks and showers, and require frequent filter changes to work effectively. These systems safeguard against contaminants and impurities, ensuring safe drinking water.

Targeted filtration maintenance is essential for drinking, showering, and laundry water. Shu Saito, founder of All Filters, says, “These fridge filters last a little longer than six months, but if you go too long, like 11-13 months, bacteria could grow, and nobody wants to take that risk.” Saito’s point highlights the need for proper filtration maintenance for healthier living. 

Air Filters: Protecting Your HVAC System and Indoor Air Quality

Air filters are essential for the HVAC system, trapping dust, allergens, and other pollutants before they enter a home. Clean filters help prevent biological contaminants, such as bacteria, viruses, and mold, from circulating indoors. They typically come in HEPA and V-bank styles. HEPA filters offer high efficiency and can capture up to 99.97% of particles before they enter the home. The V-bank style has low airflow resistance and high dirt-trapping capabilities, making it beneficial for both the home and the HVAC system.

Proper air filters ensure that contaminants are trapped before they enter the HVAC unit, helping it operate smoothly and lowering utility bills. Clogged filters can strain an air conditioning system’s components, leading to breakdowns and expensive repairs because the unit is not receiving the correct airflow. Regular filtration maintenance is cost-effective and leads to better air quality in the home. A common mistake is assuming that more expensive filters last longer when, in fact, it is more critical to change them frequently. 

Cost-Effective Filtration Maintenance Strategies

Air and water filters are not costly, and buying them in bulk saves money while ensuring you always have them on hand. Setting reminders helps ensure that the filters are replaced on schedule and can also prompt you to purchase new ones. Filtration systems should be installed correctly, and water filters should be flushed before installation to guarantee proper function.

Avoiding home maintenance services is a common mistake homeowners make, especially with air and water filtration systems. Not performing regular maintenance on targeted filtration systems leads to poor drinking water and diminished air quality, which may result in costly repairs and higher bills.