Air Filter Essentials
Home air filters (also called furnace filters) help refine your home’s air and provide a way to keep your heating, ventilating and air conditioning system (HVAC) clean. When filters get dirty and clogged, the system must work harder to keep air circulating freely. Keeping the air filters clean and regular air filter replacement helps extend the life of your HVAC unit and possibly avoid costly repairs.
There are two main types of air filters: pleated and non-pleated. Non-pleated (basic flat) filters have a smooth, flat, spun surface that’ll do the basic job of air filtration. Pleated filters have ridges or channels that provide a larger area to trap unwanted air particles. Air filter efficiency is indicated by the minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV). Good air filters have a MERV rating between 5 and 11, while the most efficient filters have MERV ratings between 13 and 14. The higher the MERV, the better it’ll help trap dust, pollen, pet hair and dander, smoke, odors, allergens, bacteria, and viruses. To learn more, check out our furnace filters guide.
How Often Should You Change Air Conditioner Filters?
You should check your air filters monthly, especially if your HVAC unit is running constantly. The replacement frequency can also depend on factors like the number of pets in a household, the filter location, the home size, whether you have allergies and the season of the year.
Non-pleated filters should be changed every month, while pleated filters can last up to three months. Be sure to change HVAC air filters every three months — even if they don’t look dirty — to keep your system running efficiently.
When checking your air filters, use your smartphone to make a note or take a photo of the filter size. This is usually printed on the side or spine of the existing filter. If the filter is missing, refer to the HVAC unit owners manual for the appropriate size. Knowing the correct size(s) ahead of time can help you avoid return trips to the store.
Subscribe and Save on Air Filters
Breathe easy with Lowe’s air filter subscription service. Take the guesswork out of timing your HVAC filter changes with automated deliveries with FREE shipping. You also get 5% off on select items with your subscription.
It’s easy to start a subscription with your MyLowe’s account. Don’t have one? Sign up here. Then go to the Product Details page for air filters. Click the button for the “Shop, Subscribe & Save” option, enter the number of units you want, and select the delivery frequency you want. Then complete the normal checkout process.
How Do You Install a New Air Filter?
Knowing how to install a new air filter is an easy task. Follow the steps below to learn how.
Instructions
What if You Have a Window Air Conditioner?
Window air conditioning units also have air filters that can be cleaned or replaced, helping the unit to run more efficiently. With the unit off, access these by removing the front cover. Newer air conditioner models may have slide-out filters located on the side of the unit. Simply remove the filter, vacuum the dust away, wash with warm soapy water, let dry and replace. If the filter is brittle or excessively dirty, replace it with a new one.