If you want your HVAC system to run properly, you need to make sure that you regularly change the filter. If the filter gets clogged up with dirt, your system won’t be able to work as efficiently as it should. Not only can this make your home more uncomfortable but it also can wind up costing you money by increasing your heating and cooling bills.

Even though HVAC filter changes are easy to do, they can be difficult to keep up with. Trying to remember to change your filter when you already have a lot of other things on your plate is challenging.

Fortunately, there are some simple tips that you can use that will make it easier to remember to change your filter.

One option is to write it into your schedule. Most experts recommend changing HVAC filters every month or two. Decide what schedule works for your home based on how frequently you use your system. If you use it a lot, you should try to change your filters on a monthly basis. During times when you aren’t using it quite as often, you may be able to go a couple of months before you need a new filter.

Either way, come up with a schedule that works for your home. Then, take out your day planner or calendar and pencil your filter changes in for the coming year. Planning ahead like this will make it easier to stay on top of changing your filter. When you check your schedule to see what you have going for the day, you will see the reminder that you wrote in your schedule months before.

If that is too low-tech for you, you can also try using your phone or your computer to remind you. Most smartphones have built-in calendars that allow you to set reminders. Go through and set up reminders for all of the times that you need to change your filter for the coming year. If you don’t have this feature on your phone or if you would rather use your computer, you can also use a free program like Google Calendar to accomplish the same thing.

Once everything is set up, you should automatically get a notification or email when it is time to change your filter. That means that you can stay on top of changing your filter even if you are distracted by other things.

One final tip is to buy enough filters for the year at the beginning of the season. Store them in an out-of-the-way place where they won’t get damaged. That way, when you get a reminder to change the filter, you won’t have to worry about running to the store. Instead, you will just have to pull one of your spare filters out of storage and put it in place. This all but guarantees that you will stay on top of changing your filters.

The key to success is to find a way to consistently remind yourself to change your HVAC filters. Even though it may seem like a hassle, it is well worth it when you consider that it not only can help your equipment last longer but can also save you money on your heating and cooling bills.