For Merv 8, 11 and 13 filters, it is recommended to change the filter at least every 3 months for optimal filtration and healthier air in your home. However, if your air filter is made of fiberglass filters, experts suggest changing it every 30 days. On the other hand, pleated filters can last up to three or six months. If you are unsure of the frequency of changing your oven filter, you can do a visual check to see if it needs to be replaced.
If there is only a thin layer of dirt where you can still see the filter underneath, then you probably don't have to change it. However, if there is a thick layer of dirt on which you can't see the filter underneath, then it's time to change it. We recommend doing a quick visual check of your filter every 3-4 weeks if you are unsure of how often your oven filter will be replaced. There are many common filter sizes, so make sure you get an exact measurement for your oven filter type.
If you feel the pressure drop in your home or notice a difference in the performance of your heating and cooling system, the dirt filter is usually the first place to look for. In general, most air filter manufacturers and HVAC companies recommend changing your air filter every 90 days or 3 months. This may vary depending on the location of your home (e.g. dry and dusty climates), if you have pets and the age of your system and equipment.
If you have pets in the house, you should consider changing the filter every 60 days or 2 months, and for households with multiple pets or people with allergies or respiratory conditions, we recommend changing the filter every 20-45 days. Usually, vacation homes or vacant homes that don't have much use can expect to change filters every 9-12 months. The more you use your home, the more often you need to change the air filter. Filters that typically last 90 days should be changed every 30 days during peak summer and winter months. Your oven owner's manual will specify the best MERV rating for your oven and, in general, filters with a MERV rating of 6 to 9 should be changed every 90 days, while those with a MERV rating of 10 to 12 should be changed every 60 days.
For example, if there are pets or people with allergies present in the house, an air filter with a higher MERV rating should be used to collect more particulate matter. By removing the air filter from the air handler and holding it close to a light source, you can see if the filter is dirty or clogged; if you can't see the light through the filter, it's definitely time to change it. Determining how often to change your air filter will depend on where you live, the time of year, the filter material, and the efficiency of the filter you select. In general, the ideal MERV filter for your home depends on your needs as well as what you have in your home. MERV 17 to MERV 20 filters are commonly used in operating rooms, cleanrooms, and other settings that require absolute cleanliness. Because of their pleats, filters such as Honeywell Ultra Efficiency Filter (available on Amazon) have more square inches of space to trap dust and usually require fewer changes - usually every 90 days. Air filters with a MERV 11 rating or higher can typically take three to six months before they are replaced.
The higher the MERV ratings, the more effective the filter will be at not allowing particles in the air to pass through it.
