Know When to Replace Your HVAC Air Filter

Wondering how often to change your HVAC air filter? Get the low-down on the ideal replacement schedule based on filter type, your lifestyle, and seasonal usage. Learn how a clean filter boosts efficiency, protects your system, and improves indoor air quality.

How Often Should You Really Change Your Air Filter?

Changing your air filter might seem like a minor task, but it plays a major role in your HVAC system’s performance. A clean filter helps maintain indoor air quality, lowers energy bills, and extends the life of your equipment. Knowing how often to change it depends on several factors, including your home, lifestyle, and filter type.

Replacing your filter every 60 to 90 days is a good rule of thumb for the average household. 

However, you may need to change it more frequently if you have pets, suffer from allergies, or live in an area with high dust levels—every 30 days is ideal. Homes without pets or allergies may be able to wait up to 90 days, but no longer.

If you’re unsure when you last changed the filter, look for signs of buildup, decreased airflow, or dust around your vents. A dirty filter forces your HVAC system to work harder, increasing energy use and wear on components. Regular changes help your system run smoothly and avoid breakdowns.

The type of filter also matters. Basic fiberglass filters are inexpensive and should be changed monthly, while pleated filters can last up to 90 days depending on conditions. HEPA filters, often used in homes with allergy concerns, may require more frequent replacement or cleaning.

Seasonal changes are also a great reminder to check and replace filters. At minimum, make it part of your spring and fall maintenance routine. Changing filters before high-use seasons like summer and winter helps prevent performance issues when you need your system the most.

WHY NOT DIY

Knowing exactly when to change your air filter isn’t always simple. Many homeowners forget or guess. This can lead to poor airflow, dirty ducts, and higher energy bills. Filters vary by type, thickness, and MERV rating. Each affects how long they last.

During allergy season or high-use months like summer and winter, replacement frequency increases. Some filters need changing every 30 days, while others last up to 90. The process also includes shutting off your system, removing the filter without damaging it, and installing the correct size replacement It's easy to choose the wrong filter or forget a critical step without expert help,

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

When hiring a professional for HVAC maintenance, find a company that offers clear guidance on filter selection and replacement frequency. A trusted technician should evaluate your home’s air quality, system usage, and filter type to build a customized plan. 

Look for licensed HVAC contractors with strong customer reviews and transparent pricing. The right company will recommend the proper MERV-rated filter for your system and explain how often it needs to be replaced. Bonus points if they offer automatic delivery or scheduled service reminders. Choose a provider that values your indoor air quality as much as your system’s performance.