HVAC Filter Replacement Schedule
Never forget to change your filter again. Here’s your personalized schedule based on your home’s specific needs.
Quick Schedule Calculator
Answer these quick questions to get your personalized schedule:
What MERV rating do you use?
How many people live in your home?
Do you have pets?
Any allergies in the household?
Standard Replacement Schedules
| Filter Type | Home Conditions | Spring/Fall | Summer/Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| MERV 8 | No pets, no allergies | 8-12 weeks | 12 weeks |
| MERV 8 | 1 pet or light allergies | 6-8 weeks | 8-10 weeks |
| MERV 11 | Most homes | 6-8 weeks | 8-10 weeks |
| MERV 13 | Pets + allergies | 4-6 weeks | 6-8 weeks |
| MERV 16+ | Severe allergies/health issues | 3-4 weeks | 4-6 weeks |
Factors That Affect Your Schedule
Home Size & Layout
- Larger homes: More air circulation = faster clogging
- Open floor plans: Better air circulation, standard schedule
- Multiple floors: May need more frequent changes
Pet Factors
- 1 cat: Reduce schedule by 2-3 weeks
- 1 large dog: Reduce schedule by 3-4 weeks
- Multiple pets: May need monthly changes
- Shedding season: Check filters weekly
️ Construction & Dust
- Active construction nearby: Check weekly
- Dusty area: Reduce schedule by 25-50%
- Gravel driveway: More frequent changes needed
️ HVAC Usage
- Fan set to “ON”: Reduce schedule by 30%
- Heavy AC/heat use: Check monthly
- Moderate use: Standard schedule OK
Month-by-Month Action Plan
January
Action: Check filter condition
Why: Peak heating season
Tip: Order spring filters early
February
Action: Change filter, prep for spring
Why: Before pollen season
Tip: Consider upgrading MERV for pollen
March
Action: Monitor closely
Why: Pollen season begins
Tip: Check every 2 weeks
April
Action: Change filter early
Why: Peak pollen season
Tip: Don’t wait for normal schedule
May
Action: Weekly filter checks
Why: Tree + grass pollen
Tip: Have backup filters ready
June
Action: Return to normal schedule
Why: Pollen season winding down
Tip: AC season maintenance
July
Action: Monitor for AC strain
Why: Peak cooling season
Tip: Watch energy bills
August
Action: Change filter, prep for fall
Why: Before ragweed season
Tip: Stock up for fall allergies
September
Action: Monitor allergy sufferers
Why: Ragweed season starts
Tip: Consider higher MERV temporarily
October
Action: Pre-winter filter change
Why: Before heating season
Tip: HVAC system checkup time
November
Action: Order winter supply
Why: Prepare for sealed house season
Tip: Buy 3-4 months worth
December
Action: Begin winter schedule
Why: House sealed up, heating active
Tip: Focus on indoor air quality
How to Track Your Schedule
When to Adjust Your Schedule
Filter Gets Dirty Too Fast
Signs: Filter is black/clogged before scheduled change
Solutions:
- Reduce time between changes by 25%
- Check for air leaks around filter
- Consider upgrading HVAC system
Reduced Airflow
Signs: Weak air from vents, system struggling
Solutions:
- Change filter immediately
- Consider lower MERV rating
- Check for other blockages
High Energy Bills
Signs: Sudden spike in heating/cooling costs
Solutions:
- Check filter condition first
- More frequent changes during peak seasons
- Monitor system efficiency
Allergy Flare-ups
Signs: Indoor allergies getting worse
Solutions:
- Increase change frequency temporarily
- Upgrade to higher MERV during allergy season
- Check filter installation for gaps
Start Your Personalized Schedule
Ready to set up a filter replacement routine that actually works for your specific home?
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