What Does an Air Filter Actually Do?
Every time your furnace or air conditioner runs, it pulls air through the filter. That filter captures:
- Dust & dirt
- Pet dander & hair
- Mold spores
- Smoke & pollen
- Lint, fibers & bacteria
- Even viruses (with high-efficiency filters)
Even if your system isn’t heating or cooling, running your thermostat fan occasionally can continue filtering the air. This is especially helpful after cleaning, when coming back to a closed-up house, or during allergy season.
🧪 Understanding MERV Ratings
Air filters are rated on a MERV scale (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) that measures how effectively they trap airborne particles:
| MERV Rating | What It Captures | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| 1–4 | Dust, pollen, large particles | Basic residential use |
| 5–8 | Mold spores, hair spray, lint | Average homes |
| 9–12 | Auto emissions, lead dust, bacteria | Homes with allergies or pets |
| 13–16 | Smoke, viruses, fine particles | Hospitals or high-sensitivity homes |
For most homes, a MERV 9–12 filter strikes the perfect balance of clean air and good airflow.
📆 When to Change Your Air Filter
How often you change your air filter depends on your household:
🏠 Standard Home (No Pets, No Allergies)
- Change every 90 days
- Check monthly to catch early buildup
🐾 Home with Pets
- One pet: every 60 days
- Multiple pets or heavy shedders: every 20–45 days
- Check every 2 weeks
🤧 Home with Allergies or Asthma
- Every 20–45 days
- Use a higher MERV rating (11–13) for cleaner, allergen-free air
- Replace immediately if symptoms worsen
🏡 Vacation Homes / Part-Time Residences
- Replace every 6–12 months
- Swap in a new filter upon arrival for best air quality during your stay
⚠️ Why It Matters
According to the World Health Organization, over 3.8 million premature deaths are linked to indoor air pollution each year. Clean air starts with a clean filter.
And the numbers don’t lie:
- 4 million U.S. adults currently suffer from asthma
- 1 million children also deal with this chronic condition
- Dirty filters strain your HVAC system, leading to higher bills and possible breakdowns
✅ Keep It Simple with a Filter Routine
Set reminders on your phone or calendar. Stock up on filters in bulk. Better yet, mark your HVAC inspection dates with Prestige Home Guard we’ll help you stay ahead of breakdowns and discomfort.
🛡️ Your Air, Protected by Prestige
At Prestige Home Guard, we believe in clean, safe, comfortable living. That’s why we cover your home’s essential systems—including your HVAC—for unexpected failures and costly repairs.
