The only way to be sure how often your air filter should be changed is to visually inspect it every month. After a few months, you'll get an idea of how quickly it gets dirty and need to re-evaluate if you have a new pet or if the outdoor air quality has been poor. Generally, pleated air filters (such as those manufactured by FilterBuy) should be replaced every 90 days. As an expert in air filtration, I can tell you that the frequency of filter replacement depends on several factors.
The type of filter you use, the environment in which it is used, and the presence of pets or people with allergies or asthma are all important considerations. Fiberglass filters, which are of relatively low quality, should be changed every 30 days. On the other hand, more expensive pleated filters can last up to six months if replaced regularly. It's important to check your air filter once a month to determine how dirty it is.
This is the only way to know for sure when it needs to be changed. If you or a family member has a history of allergies or asthma, it's best to follow the recommendations of medical associations such as the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology and change the filter every month. Most air filter manufacturers and HVAC companies suggest changing the air filter every 90 days or 3 months. However, this may vary depending on where you live (e.g., dry and dusty climates), if you have pets, and how old your system and equipment are.
If you have pets in the house, you should consider changing the filter every 60 days or 2 months. For homes with multiple pets or people with allergies or respiratory conditions, we recommend changing the filter every 20 to 45 days. Vacation homes or vacant homes that don't get much use can wait to change the filters every 9 to 12 months. In general, the more you use your home, the more often you'll need to change your air filter. MERV 8 and 11 filters trap particulates while MERV 13 filters can also capture kitchen smoke, smog, and virus carriers.
Replacing your air conditioning or heating system filter regularly keeps your system running efficiently and maintains the quality of the air in your home. However, if the air filter is located on a high ceiling or near the stairs, you may be more comfortable with the help of a professional. If your filter shows only a subtle layer of dirt below which the filter material is still visible, it works properly. But what happens if you let that time go by for a while? Before we talk about when you should change your air filter, let's start with why. Typical recommendations range from every 30 days for cheaper fiberglass filters (which often don't filter well) to 6 months for high-end pleated filters.
However, it will put unwanted pressure on your climate system leading to poor air quality and poor air circulation. Air filters usually have a MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) that determines the type and size of contaminants it will work against. Air filters are electronic devices used in homes, offices or any enclosed space to regulate temperature, collect dirt and allergens and control humidity. However, if replacing the air filter is simply impossible for an extended period spending more than 90 days will not cause irreparable damage to your air conditioning system. Most air filters are located on the right or at the bottom of the unit and can be easily removed from its slot. As mentioned earlier, presence of pets, young children and people with allergies will require you to change the air filter more often.
Using an air filter with a MERV rating higher than that recommended by the manufacturer of your oven or air conditioner may affect its performance. When it comes time to buy new air filters for your air conditioning system there are a few things to consider. As an expert in air filtration systems, I recommend that homeowners inspect their filters once a month and replace them as needed based on their individual circumstances. For those with pets or allergies/asthma issues, I suggest changing them every 20-45 days; for those without these issues but who live in dry/dusty climates I suggest changing them every 60-90 days; and for those who don't use their home often I suggest changing them every 9-12 months. The bottom line is that regular replacement of your air filter is essential for maintaining good indoor air quality and efficient operation of your HVAC system.
