A Guide On How Often You Should Change Furnace Filters

Okay I'm sure your filter doesn't look as bad as the one above, however...

Research shows that Canadians are not changing their furnace filters as often as they should. The EPA (Environmental Protections Agency) publishes filter guidelines regularly and communicates them to the public, but there seems to be a disconnect...

What's the big deal? It's just a filter, right?...

On the surface (literally and figuratively), it doesn't seem to be so harmful... but you need to dig a bit deeper. Microallergens, dust particles/toxins and other pollutants are so small, they are invisible to the naked eye. They start to build up on your furnace filter in a matter of weeks.

So even though your filter may appear clean at first glance, the reality is, there is no way to tell just by looking at it. (This could pose some health risks). And beyond the health concerns, if you let any particles start to build up on your filter, your HVAC system has to work harder to blow air through it.

This could mean increased energy bills, and even your HVAC system breaking down due to being overworked.

So how often should you change it?

Well it really depends on where you live and who or what you have in your household. Below are factors which would increase the change frequency of your filter:
  • Live in an area prone to smog, high levels of pollution or construction activity
  • Live in an area prone to wildfire smoke
  • Have pets in the household
  • Have elderly residents or children/infants in the household
  • Suffer from asthma or have allergies

Based on the above factors, a degree of judgement is involved in determining how often you should change your filter. However the general guidelines are as follows:

1 and 2 inch filters - change every 1 - 3 months

3 and 4 inch filters - change every 3 - 6 months

5 and 6 inch filters - change every 6 months

Humidifier filters - change every 3 - 4 weeks during the winter, every 1 - 2 months during other seasons

So what's stopping you from changing your filter?

Based on our research the main reasons Canadian homeowners don't to change their filter often enough are:
  • Hassle of having to drive to the local big box store
  • Not being able to find their size
  • Filters being overpriced or too expensive
  • Or just simply forgetting to do so

Despite understanding the potential risks of not changing filters, we see this problem continue to exist today.

And this is exactly why we started PureFilters

Almost 5 years ago we started PureFilters to help homeowners keep their air fresh, without the stress. We're an online-only store and cut out the middlemen, like big box retailers, in order to provide you the lowest price possible. By using our easy-to-use website, you should be able to find your filter and checkout within 14 seconds.

From there we have 2 distribution facilities across Canada, meaning your order should be at your doorstep within 3-5 business days. And best of all, we will send you email reminders notifying you that it is time to change your filter. If you've run out of filters, we even include a link inside the email for 1-click re-ordering and we also have subscription options as well.

Get started today to get started and never forget to change your air filters again! PureFilters Team