In much of the country, an air conditioner rests for months at a time. In Central Florida, it can run most of the year. More run time means your filter captures more dust, pollen and debris, and it fills up sooner.
A practical starting point
- Standard 1-inch filters: check monthly and replace every 1–3 months.
- Thicker media filters (4–5 inch): often last longer. Follow the manufacturer's guidance.
- Homes with pets, allergies, smokers or recent renovation work: expect to replace more often.
Why it matters
A clogged filter restricts airflow. The system works harder, efficiency drops, and in humid climates reduced airflow can contribute to coil icing and moisture problems. A clean filter is one of the least expensive ways to protect one of the most expensive systems in your home.
Know your size
The filter size is printed on the frame (for example 20 × 25 × 1). Record it along with where the filter is located. Some homes have more than one return. A ProLayer Home Profile keeps this information in one place, with reminders, so you don't have to remember it.