The Lifespan of Furnace Filters: How Often Should You Change Them?

As an HVAC expert, I am often asked about the lifespan of furnace filters. It's a common misconception that all filters have the same lifespan, but in reality, it varies depending on the size and type of filter, as well as the indoor air quality of a home or office. For 3- to 4-inch filters, it is recommended to change them every 6 to 9 months. For 5- to 6-inch filters, it is advised to replace them every 9 to 12 months. However, the most common filter thickness in single-family homes is the 4-inch filter, which should be changed every 6 to 9 months. This filter size has the shortest lifespan compared to other sizes.

In fact, most manufacturers recommend changing this filter size once every 90 days. During the winter months when the oven is used more frequently, it may need to be replaced more often. If you are unsure about the size of your filter, check with the company that installed your HVAC system as they may have labeled the furnace with the size of the filter used. If your house tends to be very dusty, you may need to change your filters more frequently. For one- and two-inch filters, it is recommended to change them every month.

For four-inch filters, it is advised to change them every two months. And for five-inch filters, it is recommended to change them every three months. At our company, we offer a variety of filters for different furnace sizes and brands. We have filters for 5-inch (16x25x5 or 20x25x) furnaces, whole-house air filter brands, and filters for rigid-cell furnaces. Instead of just following a standard schedule for changing your filter, there are some special signs and considerations that can help you determine when it's time for a replacement. Every home is unique, so it's important to pay attention to your specific situation.

However, most air filtration experts agree that furnace filters have an overall lifespan. Keeping new filters in your oven will not only help ensure that your oven works smoothly and efficiently, but most importantly, it will also ensure that the air you and your family breathe is as clean as possible. If you have multiple smokers in the house, you may need to adjust the recommended filter replacement schedule. For one- to two-inch filters, it is advised to change them once a month. For four-inch filters, it is recommended to change them every two months.

And for five-inch filters, it is advised to change them every three months. The lifespan of a furnace filter also depends on the type of filter you have installed. Filters with a high MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) will capture a larger amount of particles compared to less efficient filters. In addition to keeping the HVAC system free of contaminants, furnace filters also help to clean the indoor air that you breathe. It's important to note that air conditioning systems do not have any heating components and therefore do not require an oven filter. However, if you have a Honeywell furnace filter, it will have the same replacement recommendations as standard filters. If you have multiple pets in your home, it's important to change your filters more frequently.

For one- or two-inch filters, it is recommended to change them every month. And for five-inch filters, it is recommended to change them every three months.

Allen Hummer
Allen Hummer

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