It's no secret that regular filter maintenance is essential for a healthy home. But when it comes to answering the question “How often do I need to change my air filter?”, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Generally, pleated filters should be replaced every 90 days, while electrostatic or washable filters should be washed, dried, and reinstalled once a month. Oven filters usually need to be changed approximately every three months.
If you open doors and windows frequently during warm seasons, you'll need to replace thinner filters once a month and thicker filters at least every three months. If your house smells musty, changing the boiler filter is also a way to help the interior of the house smell good. Air filters usually have a MERV (nominal minimum efficiency value) that determines the type and size of contaminants against which the filter acts. To help protect the life of the air conditioner and improve comfort, it's important to clean or replace the HVAC filter regularly.
The only type of filters that trap allergens and spores are HEPA filters, or high-energy particulate air filters. In general, most air filter manufacturers and HVAC companies recommend changing the air filter every 90 days or 3 months. If several members of the household smoke, you'll need to change it to a thicker one and change it more often, about once a month for filters smaller than 2 inches or about every three months for thick filters of 5 to 6 inches. According to the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), this filtration helps provide healthier indoor air quality.
Instead of removing and replacing these filters regularly, simply wash them once a month and return them to their slot. The lifespan of an air filter also depends on the occupants of the home and the characteristics of the home itself. Factors such as smoking habits, pet ownership, and how often doors and windows are opened can increase or decrease the frequency with which you should check, clean, or replace your air filter. Ultimately, it's up to you to decide how often you should maintain your HVAC system.
