Changing Air Filters

Location: Modern central heating and air conditioning systems generally have the filter located as close to the blower unit as possible, in the cold air return duct. Remove the grill or box cover holding your filter in place.

Remove the dirty filter: Dispose of the dirty filter in a bag to contain the dirt.

Install: Install the new or cleaned and dried air filter with the air flow arrow pointing toward the blower. Record the date and wash or change the filter within the recommended period. If you experience higher dust levels in your home due to changes in outside air, construction or dry weather, you may need to wash your filter more frequently than the recommended period.

 How long does my filter last?
The life of your filter depends on your environment and the type of filter you have installed. If there are a lot of airborne contaminants in your home because of a remodeling project, use of candles or incense, or increased activity levels, you will need to check your filter more frequently. If it is loaded with dust and dirt, it should be changed. Different types of filters have different life expectancies. Fiberglass filters last up to 30 days. Pleated filters last up to 90 days. Washable filters should be washed every 30 days and last up to 5 years. Mini-pleated filters should be vacuumed every 60 days and last up to one year.

Why do pleated filters last longer than fiberglass filters?
Pleating the filter media allows more media contained within the filter frame. More media means more surface area to capture and hold particles. This capacity to hold more dust makes the pleated filters last longer than fiberglass filters.