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As a general rule, HVAC air filters should be replaced every one to three months (or every 90 days). However, the ideal frequency depends on several factors, including the filter type and your home's environment. For instance, if you use thinner filters (1-2 inches deep), have pets, have household members with allergies, smoke indoors, or frequently keep windows open, you may need to change the filter as often as once a month. It's best to follow the manufacturer's recommendation as a guideline and visually inspect the filter monthly to see if it's dirty. Regular filter changes are crucial for maintaining proper airflow, good indoor air quality, and efficient HVAC system operation.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), no single water filter or treatment system can remove 100% of contaminants. To find the best filter for your needs, first determine which impurities are most important for you to remove. For example, reverse osmosis (RO) filters are highly effective at removing a wide range of contaminants, including sediment, heavy metals, bacteria, viruses, dissolved salts, and chemicals. However, the RO process can also filter out beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium. If eliminating bacteria is your main priority, a UV filter could be a suitable choice. Additionally, distilled water is considered the most pure form of filtered water available.

How often you change your air filter depends on your home and lifestyle. Things like how many people are in your home, pets, the season, the size of your home, the air quality where you live, and more all impact your HVAC system. The best practice is using visual indicators to determine when it needs changing by checking if light can pass through it. If you can’t see any light, it’s clogged and needs to be changed.

While an air conditioner can temporarily run with a dirty filter, it is not recommended as it will not work efficiently. A dirty filter forces the system to work harder to circulate cool air, leading to reduced airflow, increased wear and tear, and higher energy bills. This added strain can cause the air conditioner to overheat or fail prematurely. Furthermore, a clogged filter may allow dust and dirt to accumulate in your ductwork, negatively impacting air quality. It is more cost-effective to clean or replace filters regularly than to pay higher utility bills and risk needing to replace the entire AC unit.