Home Upkeep for Tucson Living: Easy DIY Tips from Key View Inspection-#2

Maintaining Your HVAC Air Filters: Simple Care for Better Airflow

Tucson Home Care Made Easy, a practical, homeowner-friendly blog series created by your local inspection experts at Key View Inspection. Whether you live in Tucson, Oro Valley, Sahuarita, Green Valley, Vail, Marana, Catalina, Saddlebrooke, or Casa Grande, these guides are designed to help you take simple, safe steps to keep your home running smoothly. Each post focuses on easy, low-risk tasks that don’t require special tools or technical training—just clear instructions from a trusted home inspector who understands the unique conditions of Southern Arizona homes. Our goal is to empower you, save you time, and help you feel confident caring for your own home.

By following these simple home-care habits, you'll also be better prepared for future home inspections—meaning fewer surprises, fewer defects, and a more favorable inspection when it matters most.

As a home inspector, I often see HVAC systems struggling because the filters haven’t been replaced in months. Clean filters are one of the simplest things homeowners can do to improve indoor air quality, reduce energy use, and avoid small HVAC issues showing up during a home inspection. The good news is that this is an easy, safe task anyone can do.

Proper filter care helps your HVAC system run efficiently, keeps your home comfortable, and can prevent costly repairs down the road. Here’s how to do it.

1. Locate Your HVAC Filter

Most filters are found behind return vents or inside the HVAC cabinet. Make sure the system is off before removing the filter.

2. Remove and Inspect the Filter

Slide out the old filter and hold it up to the light. If it’s dark or clogged, it’s time to replace it. You will need to note the size of the filter to ensure the replacement will fit.

3. Install a New Filter

Insert a new filter of the exact same size, ensuring the airflow arrows point in the correct direction.

4. Check Filters Regularly

Depending on use, replace monthly, or every 1–3 months. Homes with pets or dusty conditions may need more frequent changes.

Why These Steps Matter

Dirty filters reduce airflow, strain your HVAC system, and can show up as “needs maintenance” during home inspections. A simple filter swap improves air quality, system performance, wear and tear on the HVAC system and can lead to fewer inspection findings.

At Key View Inspection, we believe homeowners deserve clarity, confidence, and peace of mind. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply maintaining your home, our detailed inspections and friendly service ensure you get the information you need — explained in a way that’s easy to understand.

If you live in the Tucson, Casa Grande, Sahuarita, Green Valley, Oro Valley, Catalina, Saddlebrooke, or South Tucson areas we’re here to help you protect your biggest investment.

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Key View Inspection

Professional Home & Commercial Property Inspections

Serving Tucson, Arizona & Surrounding Areas

Phone: (520) 525-5450 • Email: Trish@KeyViewInspection.com