As a general rule, most drivers should be able to go a year or two before needing to replace their air filter. But why should you change it? A pleated air filter, such as those manufactured by FilterBuy, should be replaced every 90 days. This is because the filter traps dirt, dust, and allergens from the air, and its efficiency decreases over time. If you have a pet or smoker in your home, you may need to replace the filter more often.
If not, you can wait up to 90 days before changing it. Children are more sensitive to indoor air pollutants such as mold, dust mite debris, dander, and pollen. To keep your home an oasis for them, use quality air filters and replace them before they become clogged and dirty. When the engine air filter is dirty, air cannot pass through the filter to the engine, affecting the car's entire emission control system.
If you purchase an older system, plan to replace the filter more frequently to maintain filter quality. Filters with higher MERV ratings trap small particles more effectively than filters with lower MERV ratings. A good indication that the air filter needs to be replaced is the presence of black smoke coming from the exhaust pipes when you start the engine. The cabin air filter should also be changed periodically, but at a different time than the engine air cleaner. If you have allergies, you can reduce your symptoms by using a high-quality air filter and adopting a more frequent replacement program.
Air filters typically have a MERV (Minimum Efficiency Report Value) that determines the type and size of contaminants against which the filter will act.
