How Long Should Commercial Air Filters Last?

In general, most air filter manufacturers and HVAC companies recommend changing the air filter every 90 days or 3 months. As a general rule, a company in a relatively clean environment, such as an office building, must replace or clean its HVAC filters quarterly. Filters that serve in dry and clean commercial environments can often operate at maximum efficiency for three months. Designated staff can track the filter replacement program on a calendar.

In controlled indoor environments, such as offices, you can expect to change the filter at least three to four times a year. Commercial HVAC units operating in more difficult and unpredictable environments, such as medical or military buildings, will require more frequent air cleaner replacement. At a minimum, all filters must be replaced or cleaned at least quarterly. This is the standard for HVAC units used in relatively dry and clean environments, such as offices.

Work environments that are mostly clean and chemical-free can be maintained in good condition with quarterly replacements without having to worry about the unit being damaged in the meantime. It is best practice to put this on your calendar at the beginning of each quarter to make sure it's being done. When you remove the air filter from the air handling unit, if you hold it close to a light source, you can see if the filter is dirty or clogged; if you can't see the light through the filter, it's definitely time to change it. If you have poor air quality outside or pets indoors, you'll need to replace your air filter more often.

It's a general recommendation to change your home's air filter every 30 days when using less expensive fiberglass filters. However, the smaller the appliance used for cooling, the small space usually comes with smaller filters, so you may need to change the filter as often as a filter in a larger home. While there are several factors that contribute to the air quality of your commercial property, one of the most important is the air filter used by the structure's HVAC system. How often you need to update the filters in your system is determined by a number of factors.

The Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America (AAFA) states that “indoor air quality is just as important as outdoor air quality”. To minimize risk associated with clogged filters, it is recommended to change them regularly and ensure that you always have an adequate supply of replacement filters on hand. If your HVAC system operates in a more demanding environment, such as a hospital or a dusty warehouse, air conditioning repair companies recommend changing filters more often. As a general rule, you'll want to replace your home's pleated air filters and heating filters every 90 days.

Commercial HVAC air filters are designed to keep allergens and dust out of the air, and provide your employees with cleaner air to breathe, while ensuring your air conditioner stays in good operating condition. Depending on the type of filter you need, changing it every 30 days or up to 6 months or more will depend on the filter manufacturer's recommendation, as well as what your HVAC professional deems best for your business. The air cleaner and boiler filter replacement cycle is also affected by air outside and inside your home.

Janice Kampman
Janice Kampman

Subtly charming musicaholic. Zombie evangelist. Incurable travel lover. Devoted beer enthusiast. Passionate zombie specialist.

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