The ideal is to change your air filter every three months, however, there are certain factors to consider when determining when to replace an old filter. The only way to ensure how often you need to change your air filter is to perform a visual inspection of the filter every month. After a few months, you'll get an idea of how quickly it gets dirty. You'll need to reassess if you have a new pet or if the outdoor air quality has been poor.
A general rule of thumb for pleated air filters (such as those manufactured by FilterBuy) is to replace the filter every 90 days. As the filter traps more dirt, dust and allergens from the air, the efficiency of the filter decreases. An HVAC filter will only last one to three months on average, so it's important to keep track of the date you installed them. If you wait too long to change the filter, indoor air quality will suffer and your energy bill may rise as the system works harder when air circulates.
Households with a pet should generally replace filters after two months; those with more than one pet may need to replace the filter once a month. However, the smaller the appliance used for cooling, the small space usually comes with smaller filters, so you may need to change the filter as often as a filter in a larger home. At this time, it is recommended that air filters be replaced with quality replacements that can filter out common allergens, including pollen. Pleated air filters are more expensive at first, but they are also more efficient at trapping particles and can last up to 90 days, depending on use.
If you have an asthmatic or allergic person at home, it's best to replace the filter every 6 weeks to ensure that the indoor air quality is the best. If you answer yes to any of the following questions, you'll want to replace the filter more often than recommended: Do you have pets? Is outdoor air quality poor? Is there an asthmatic or allergic person in your home? To keep air quality under control and your home clean, you'll want to replace the filter with a minimum interval of 2 to 3 months. If the owner's manual says it's time to replace the filter, it's best to take care of the replacement, rather than waiting for you to start seeing other problems. Changing the air filter will help keep parts of the air conditioner clean and prevent wear and tear.
Check your air filter today and change it if you are behind schedule and enjoy fresh, clean air in your home.
