This is what I do. Since I have the blower motor running continuously I end up changing the filters about every two months. With the fan set to auto the filters would last about three months.I just look at mine, and replace when it visually looks loaded up.
That's not a terrible indicator, but some the Filtrete filters that are high MERV may be too restrictive even when you can still see light through them. The larger MERV8 filter in my house will start to assume a "dome" shape as it gets loaded up. When it reaches a certain point I change the filters to avoid having them become too restrictive. That's how I arrived at the two month interval for mine.Years ago I called the folks who make the filtrete filters, and they told me that as long as I can see light through the filter, I can still use it. So I change it when it is so gunked up that I can barely see any light coming through when I hold it up to the light.
That is 100% true, but they are more restrictive. As long as the system was designed around a MERV13 or greater filter it should be OK, though. I am in the industry and we sell filters as high as MERV16.I ran different Merv ratings at my last house. Merv 13 kept the home cleaner and there was definitely less household dust over a long period so that is something to consider.
It depends on the filter. I'm using the cheaper filters now which allow the highest airflow. I change every 2 months or so. When I was using the better filtrete filters, I would go 3-6 months depending on the season.
There are shortages locally of most filters at the Big Box Stores.
No set time, when it's dirty, it gets changed.How often are you replacing your furnace filter, and why are you replacing at that interval?
I run a 1” NaturalAire Standard (MERV 8) and replace every 500 hours. The thermostat tracks run time and displays when it’s due, KISS method.
How often are you replacing your furnace filter, and why are you replacing at that interval?
I run a 1” NaturalAire Standard (MERV 8) and replace every 500 hours. The thermostat tracks run time and displays when it’s due, KISS method.
I use the cheapest paper filter but I've had two different techs recommend fiberglass and say that buying high quality filters was the biggest source of service calls.We had a new HVAC system put in about 5 years ago. The technician said to use those cheap fiberglass filters you get at Walmart for ~$1. He said to set the filter reminder on the thermostat for 3 months and change it when it goes off. So it costs about ~$4 per year.
We used to use the heavy duty 3M filter. The tech said those were more of a gimick than anything and also hard on the blower motor with the resistance they provide. I agree with him as I had one that basically warped so bad I had to tear it to get it out.