How Often Should You Change Your Furnace Filter?

Many homeowners forget about their furnace filter until something goes wrong. But this small, inexpensive part plays a big role in how well your HVAC system works and how clean your indoor air stays. 

Changing your furnace filter regularly can lower your energy bills, prevent costly repairs, and keep your home’s air fresh and healthy. 

So, how often should you change it? Let’s explore the answer and what affects how often it should be replaced. 

Why Furnace Filters Are So Important 

Your furnace filter’s job is simple - but essential. It captures dust, dirt, pet hair, pollen, and even bacteria that float through the air. By trapping these particles, it: 

• Improves indoor air quality 
• Protects your HVAC system from dust buildup 
• Keeps air flowing efficiently through your vents 

When the filter gets too dirty, it can’t do its job. That puts more strain on your system, increases your heating costs, and lets dirty air circulate around your home. 

How Often Should You Change Your Furnace Filter? 

As a starting point, here’s how frequently you should change different types of filters: 

These are just guidelines. In real life, several factors can affect how often you actually need to replace the filter. 

Why You Should Change Your Furnace Filter More Often Than You Think?

1. Type of Filter You’re Using 

Not all filters are built the same. Basic fiberglass filters are thin and need changing every 30 days. On the other hand, thicker pleated or HEPA filters last longer and trap smaller particles. 

Tip: Always check the label on your filter for manufacturer recommendations. 

2. Do You Have Allergies or Asthma in the Home? 

If anyone in your family has asthma, allergies, or other breathing issues, it’s important to keep the air as clean as possible. In this case, changing your filter more often - every 30 to 45 days - is a smart move. 

Cleaner filter = cleaner air = fewer allergy symptoms. 

3. Got Pets? You’ll Need to Change Filters More Often 

Pets shed hair and dander, which can clog your filter faster than you’d think. If you have one furry friend, change your filter every 60 days. Two or more pets? Aim for every 30 to 45 days. 

Even short - haired pets add to filter buildup. 

4. Is the Air in Your Area Dusty or Polluted? 

If you live in a dusty climate, near construction, or in a city with high pollution, your filters will work overtime. Smoke from wildfires or cigarettes also clogs filters quickly. 

Bad outdoor air = faster filter clogging indoors. 

5. How Many People Live in Your Home? 

A full house means more foot traffic, more dust, and more activity that stirs up particles. The more people you have, the more often your filter will need attention. 

Think of it like this: more people, more particles. 

6. How Often Do You Use Your HVAC System? 

In the winter or summer, your system might run all day, every day. In those high - use seasons, filters fill up faster. During milder weather, they might last longer. 

High usage = high filter wear. 

7. Have You Done Any Renovation Work Recently? 

Home improvement projects like sanding, painting, or drywall installation kick up a lot of dust. Always replace your filter immediately after any major renovation. 

Even small projects send particles flying into your HVAC system. 

How to Tell It’s Time to Change Your Furnace Filter 

Here are the most common signs your filter is overdue for a change: 

• Visible dirt and dust on the filter 
• Dust building up quickly on furniture and vents 
• Strange smells when your furnace kicks on 
• Uneven heating or cooling in different rooms 
• Increased allergy symptoms or dry eyes 
• Higher - than - usual energy bills 

If you notice any of these, check the filter first! 

Why It Matters 

Ignoring your furnace filter can lead to: 

• A clogged HVAC system 
• Reduced airflow, making it harder to heat or cool your home 
• More frequent (and expensive) repairs 
• Poor air quality, which can trigger allergies and illness 
• Shortened HVAC system lifespan 

In short: a $10 filter can prevent a $500 repair. 

Upgrade Your Air Quality with Lennox Healthy Climate HEPA - 20 

If you're serious about improving your indoor air quality and reducing allergens, it's time to think beyond basic filters. The Lennox Healthy Climate HEPA - 20 Bypass Air Filtration System is a game - changer for homeowners who want cleaner, healthier air throughout the home. 

Here’s why it stands out: 

• True HEPA Filtration: Captures up to 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns - including dust, pollen, mold spores, bacteria, and smoke. 
• Bypass Design: Works with your existing HVAC system without restricting airflow. 
• Sealed Housing: Prevents particles from bypassing the filter, unlike standard filters. 
• Continuous Operation: Filters the air even when your HVAC system isn’t actively heating or cooling. 
• Ideal for Allergy and Asthma Sufferers: Provides hospital - grade air purification for residential spaces. 

Why settle for ordinary when you can breathe extraordinary? 

Go Lime Recommends: Lennox HEPA - 20 for Ultimate Protection 

We proudly offer and install the Lennox Healthy Climate HEPA - 20 Bypass System because we believe our customers deserve the best. Whether you’re battling seasonal allergies, concerned about air pollution, or simply want the cleanest air possible - this system delivers. 

Better air. Better health. Better home. 

Need help with HVAC maintenance? Contact Go Lime for reliable heating and cooling service today. We’ll help you breathe easier all year round. 

Everything You Need to Know About Furnace Filters 

Q: How do I know my filter size? 
A. Check your old filter - it should be printed on the side (like 16x25x1). You can also measure the space manually. 

Q: Can I vacuum or wash a disposable filter? 
A. No. Disposable filters are made for single use. Only washable filters should be rinsed and reused. 

Q: Are expensive filters worth it? 
A. Higher - end filters with a higher MERV rating trap more allergens and smaller particles - but they also restrict airflow more. Choose what’s best for your needs. 

Q: Will a dirty filter make my HVAC louder? 
A. Yes! It can make the system work harder and produce more noise due to airflow restriction. 

Q: Should I replace the filter even if it doesn’t look dirty? 
A. Yes - many harmful particles are too small to see. Stick to a schedule rather than relying on appearance. 

Q: Can I get alerts to change my filter? 
A. Yes, smart thermostats like Nest or Ecobee can send reminders based on usage.