A pleated air filter should be replaced every 30-60 days, while a 2-fold air filter should be replaced every 3 months. A 3-fold air filter should be replaced every 120 days, and a 4-fold air filter should be replaced every 6 months. In general, most air filter manufacturers and HVAC companies recommend changing your air filter every 90 days or 3 months. This may change depending on the location of your home, if you have pets, and the age of your system and equipment.
If you have pets in your home, you should consider changing the filter every 60 days or 2 months, and for households 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 have much use can expect to change filters every 9-12 months. The more you use your home, the more you need to change the air filter. The ideal is to change your air filter every three months, however, there are certain factors to consider when determining when to change an old filter. 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. If your dirty air filter is completely covered with dust and dirt, it's a good idea to change the filter even if it hasn't reached the end of its recommended life. Changing the air filter will help keep parts of the air conditioner clean and prevent wear and tear. If someone in the household suffers from severe allergies, it is recommended to change air filters very often; in some cases, every two weeks. When you begin to notice an increase in air particles or contaminants, the filter needs to be changed more frequently.
Some manufacturers recommend replacing air filters every 30 to 60 or 90 days, depending on the type of air filter. Replacing filters regularly can keep homeowners and their families healthy through efficient air circulation. So how can you determine if your air filter has trapped more than enough dirt and needs a change? You will no longer be able to filter the air properly, allowing dust and contaminants to enter the HVAC system. The more folds an air filter has, the better the chances of removing contaminants from the indoor air. These air filters act as barriers to prevent contaminants from entering the HVAC system or circulating in the air.
