How Often Should I Change My Air Filters?

Air filters, or furnace filters, are designed to keep the coils and heat exchange on your HVAC system clean. Air filters also collect and trap air contaminants such as dust, dirt, pet dander, and pollen to help clean the air that circulates through your home. Keeping your filter clean will help extend the life of your HVAC unit.

The most important thing to remember about air filters is to change them regularly. Generally, it's recommended that residential air filters are changed every 30 days when using regular fiberglass filters. When air filters go unchanged, dust, pollen, dirt, and other contaminants accumulate and decrease the filter efficiency.

It's a good rule of thumb to check your filter every 1-2 months. If it is covered in dust or dirt, or appears clogged, it is time for a replacement. Filters that are dirty or clogged can negatively impact air quality and can also cause strain on your HVAC system, resulting in decreased efficiency and potential damage.

When deciding how often you should be changing the air filters in your home, consider these key factors:

What type of air filter are you using?

• Standard fiberglass throwaway filters are designed to remove only large particles from the air. Fiberglass air filters have a low resistance to airflow of air, which makes them popular in residential homes.

• Pleated air filters are built with the filter media folded into a 1" frame to provide more surface area. They can use high-efficiency media without negatively affecting the resistance to airflow.

A pleated furnace filter is for those wanting to step up from a basic furnace filter. Pleated filters offer better protection against dust and other airborne contaminants.

How often do you use your HVAC system?

If you're using your AC or heater for only a few hours a day, your filter could last up to 12 months. If you're heating or cooling your home constantly and using fiberglass filters, you may have to change the filter once a month.

How many people live in your home?

If it's a single-family home with no pets or allergies or a vacation home, filters can be changed every 6-12 months.

Does anyone in your home suffer from allergies?

Homes with allergy sufferers or inhabitants with respiratory conditions or weakened immune systems may benefit from more frequent filter replacements. Filter change frequency can vary based on how severe your allergies or health conditions are. If your allergies are light to moderate, it's recommended that filters are changed every 30-45 days.

How many pets are in your home?

Pets contribute dander, fur, and dirt to indoor air. Change filters every 60 days per dog or cat. If you have more than one, air filters should be changed every 30-45 days.

*Note: These recommendations are based on average use (not accounting for the size and/or type of filter).

The frequency of air filter changes will vary based on the above factors. To ensure that the air quality in your home is good, monitor filter conditions, understand the requirements of your living space, and adjust how often you replace your filters accordingly. Regular filter changes can help lead to improved living conditions and long-term savings.

Ready for a filter change? Shop Purolator Air Filters by style, size, or type, or get in touch with us for additional assistance!