When it comes to air filters, the general rule of thumb is to replace a 16x25x1 furnace filter every 45-60 days. However, this timeline can vary depending on the type of filter you have. Fiberglass filters, which are of lower quality, may need to be changed more often. On the other hand, pleated filters, which are more expensive, can last up to 90 days.
It is important to know which type of air filter is best for your needs in order to ensure clean air and optimal health. In smaller homes, the air conditioning system has to move less air, which may mean that air filters are replaced less frequently. However, it is still important to replace the filter regularly in order to keep your system running efficiently and maintain the air quality in your home. Dirty filters can be a disaster for heating and cooling equipment, home comfort, and indoor air quality.
To ensure that only clean air comes out of the air conditioning system, change the filter before it gets clogged so you can breathe better. If you don't already have filters on hand, simply run the air conditioner without one until you can install a new one. Most 16 x 25 x 1 heater filters need to be changed after two to three months, but this timeline may vary depending on your lifestyle and usage. After a period of smoky days and poor outdoor air quality, inspect the filter to see if it needs to be changed. If you have young children at home, you'll need to change your air filter more often - once every 2 to 3 months. If an air filter is not replaced when necessary, the appliance will attract more particles from the surrounding air, making it inefficient.
Smaller home furnaces and air conditioners need to pump less air for the same amount of temperature change, which can mean less frequent filter changes. There is no strict guideline for when a filter needs to be changed; however, if the filter only shows a subtle layer of dirt below which the filter material is still visible, then it is still working properly. A house that is occupied most of the time will require more frequent use of the air conditioning system and will therefore need to replace the filter much sooner compared to a home without occupants.
