As an expert in HVAC systems and indoor air quality, I recommend changing your 14x20x1 air filter every 30 days if you have regular fiberglass filters or every three months if you have pleated filters. This will help keep your home's indoor air clean and free of dust, pollen, dirt and other contaminants that can accumulate over time and reduce your HVAC system's efficiency. For basic 1 to 3 air filters, brands usually suggest that you change them every 30 to 90 days. If any member of your family has mild to moderate allergies or if you live in an area with high levels of airborne particles, you may want to consider using a higher MERV rating filter or changing your filter more often than recommended.
The most important thing to remember about air filters is to change them regularly. When air filters remain unchanged, dust, pollen, dirt and other contaminants accumulate and decrease filter efficiency. You generally need to replace a fiberglass air filter about once every 30 days or as recommended by the manufacturer. A pleated air filter should be replaced approximately every three to six months. When replacing your 14x20x1 air filter, make sure you choose one that is compatible with your HVAC system's power level and size requirements.
The easiest way to find an air filter that's right for your home is to locate the filter that's already installed. Over time, the filter can become clogged and restrict airflow through the filter to the house. Some HVAC systems are designed to have a single air filtration system instead of a separate system for the air conditioner and boiler. Because filters with higher MERV ratings are denser, the boiler must work harder to suck air through them, and not every furnace is powerful enough to do so. When an air filter has been in use for an extended period, it begins to gradually restrict airflow through the heating and cooling system. The deeper the creases, the larger the filter surface and the more space it has to collect airborne particles, so it may not clog as quickly as a flat filter.
In most cases, air filters with a MERV rating equal to or lower than 16 are designed for residential, commercial, and institutional HVAC systems. Air filters with a MERV rating ranging from 17 to 20 are designed for areas that require absolute sterility, such as operating rooms or rooms for immunosuppressed people. By filtering these contaminants, the boiler filter improves air quality in the home and makes it easier to breathe. A Honeywell furnace filter will have the same filter replacement recommendations as standard filters. Replace the air filter to restore airflow, improve heating and cooling efficiency, and increase air quality throughout the home.
I checked the filter and found it covered in dust, so I replaced it with a new one and the indoor air is now much cooler. If you're not sure which type of filter is best for your home or how often you should change it, consult with an HVAC professional for advice on what type of filter is best for your needs and how often you should replace it.
