– The general consensus is that you should be replacing the air filter in your home every 3 months, or 90 days.
Our standard recommendation is as follows: For 1- to 2- inch filters, replace them every 1 to 3 months. For 3- to 4- inch filters, replace them every 6 to 9 months. For 5- to 6- inch filters, replace them every 9 to 12 months.
How often should you change your air filter? Most manufacturers recommend changing basic fiberglass filters every 30 days. Higher-quality pleated filters should generally be changed every 90 days, though they can potentially last up to six months.
Even if your filter appears clean, those tiny particles can still accumulate and clog it up over time. Changing your filters every 3 months is the way to maintain proper airflow, efficient operation, and great indoor air quality throughout your home.
Expensive air filters are made from higher-quality materials, like fiberglass, that can last for up to 12 months. This not only saves you money, but it's also more convenient since you won't have to remember to replace your air filters as often.
If you don't change your AC filter, it will begin to fail. It will no longer be able to filter the air properly, letting dust and contaminants get into the HVAC system.
Filters with a MERV rating of 1 to 7 typically cost between $5 and $20. Filters with ratings of 8 to 13 can cost anywhere from $20 to $150. HVAC systems in residential homes usually don't need (and often cannot handle) filters with a MERV rating of more than 13.
Black Soot Deposition
Black soot can quickly turn our air filters black. This is usually a result of burning candles. Candles are made of carbon-based materials that don't all combust when burned. They end up producing tiny soot particles which then get into our carpet, on our furniture, and in our air filters.
After replacing the filter, you should wait at least 12 hours before running the system. If the AC is still not blowing cold air, it could signify that you have a refrigerant leak, a damaged condenser, or your entire mechanical system needs maintenance.
Neglecting your air filter can lead to several issues. Over time, it can cause reduced fuel efficiency, diminished horsepower, and even engine damage. Keeping up with this small maintenance task can save you from more significant, expensive problems.
Factors Affecting Carbon Filter Longevity
These include the type of pollutants, their concentration, environmental humidity, and usage frequency. Typically, a carbon air filter lasts between three to six months.
1- to 2-inch filters: Replace every 1 to 3 months. 3- to 4-inch filters: Replace every 6 to 9 months. 5- to 6-inch filters: Replace every 9 to 12 months. Besides size and efficiency, there are other important factors to consider when changing furnace filters to maintain a healthy and comfortable indoor environment.
It used to be normal to change the oil every 3,000 miles, but with modern lubricants most engines today have recommended oil change intervals of 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Moreover, if your car's engine requires full-synthetic motor oil, it might go as far as 15,000 miles between services!
Expensive Filters Are Made of Better-Quality Materials
They are often made of fiberglass, which is a porous material that can trap more dust and pollen than other materials like cardboard or paper. Fiberglass also resists moisture and does not tear as easily as other materials.
If you take your vehicle to your dealer for service, they will likely replace the air cabin filter with a manufacturer-approved version that can run from around $40 to upwards of $100. If you replace the filter yourself, it can be as affordable as $18 to $28.
Many disposable air conditioner filters should be replaced rather than cleaned, as cleaning with water can lead to possible mold issues. Clean the coils and fan of the AC regularly, using a canister of condensed air to blow away dust and buildup.
These particular types may not last as long as other individual components, but they can be cleaned and reused for a longer time frame. Replacement filters vary in their lifespan from model to model. However, these usually need replacement every three months or after 200 to 300 hours of usage.
Turn the unit off. Turning this off prevents the air from blowing dust and grit into your system. Open up your vent and remove the used filter.
For instance, MERV 8 filters catch larger particles and are less restrictive, while MERV 11 filters catch smaller particles and are more restrictive. This means MERV 11 filters not only have higher initial resistance but also build up additional resistance faster as they capture more debris.
Filtrete Air Filters imply that they are as good as air purifiers but are not in the same category or performance arena. Filtrete air filters are built to work with homes equipped with forced-air heating and cooling systems. Simply put, Filtrete is not the best choice for your home and the air quality inside of it.
Not necessarily. Some knockoff filters that are labeled as extremely high-efficiency can actually be dangerous to the health of your heating or cooling system. These can create an airflow restriction, leading to hidden damage to your system and premature repair or replacement costs.