How often to change your air filters can depend on the following:
- the type of air filter you are using
- the overall indoor air quality
- how many pets are in the home
- the number of people occupying the home, and
- the level of air pollution and construction around the home
For basic 1"-3" air filters, manufacturers usually direct you to change them every 30-60 days. If you suffer from light to moderate allergies, you could upgrade the air filter or change them [even more often|more frequently|every few weeks]3]. Or, if you're in a more remote area or less occupied home (like a vacation home) and there are fewer cars around, annually may be often enough.
Here are averages that might help you know how often you should change the air filter at home:
- Vacation home or single occupant and no pets or allergies: every 6-12 months
- "Average" suburban home without pets: every 90 days
- Add a dog or cat: every 60 days
- Add more than one pet or anyone has allergies: 20-45 days