Fiberglass air filters are the more affordable option, but they are not as effective at trapping dust and particles in the air. As a general rule, pleated air filters (such as those manufactured by FilterBuy) should be replaced every 90 days. The efficiency of the filter decreases as it traps more dirt, dust, and allergens from the air. The ideal is to change your air filter every three months, but there are certain factors to consider when determining when to replace an old filter.
If the filter is made of fiberglass, experts recommend changing it every 30 days. On the other hand, pleated filters can last up to six months. In general, an HVAC filter will only last one to three months. It is important to keep track of the date you installed it so that you do not wait too long to change the filter and suffer from poor indoor air quality.
Pet owners should replace their air filter every two months, especially when transitioning between seasons. People with allergies, asthma, or other respiratory conditions are particularly sensitive to particles in the air and should check their filter regularly. Homes that are occupied most of the time will require more frequent use of the air conditioning system and therefore will need to replace the filter more often than a house with no occupants. Drivers should expect to spend more than a year, and probably more than two years between air filter changes, depending on conditions and mileage.
The HVAC air filter helps keep indoor air clean by trapping mold particles, pollen, and other contaminants moving through the system. It also generates less air resistance which can help the HVAC system work more effectively and reduce wear and tear on components, including the fan motor. If you have poor air quality outside and inside your home, you'll need to replace the air filter more often. With air conditioners, replace the filter every 30 days with cheaper fiberglass filters to avoid higher energy bills.
People with pets, young children, or allergies should change their air filter every two to three months. If an air cleaner is not replaced regularly, it will attract more particles from the surrounding air and become inefficient. The frequency of replacement depends on your location; if you live in a big city with high levels of pollutants such as smoke and dust, you may need to change your oven filter more often. To locate the engine air cleaner housing, look for a large plastic housing (usually black) that sits above or to one side of the engine.
