Ask most renters when they last changed their HVAC air filter and you'll get a long pause, followed by something like "…when I moved in?" You're not alone. Air filters are out of sight, out of mind — which is exactly why they become a problem. A neglected filter is one of the most common and avoidable causes of poor air quality, elevated energy bills, and HVAC problems in rental homes.
Here's what you need to know — and what you need to do.
Why It Actually Matters
The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that replacing a clogged air filter can reduce your HVAC system's energy consumption by 5–15%. A dirty filter forces the system to work harder for the same output.
Beyond energy efficiency, air filters directly affect what you're breathing. The filter's job is to trap dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and other airborne particles before they recirculate through your home. When it's full, it stops working — and those particles pass right through into the air you breathe every day.
How Often to Change It
The right interval depends on your filter type and living situation:
Change every 30 days. These are inexpensive and common in many units but have a low dust-holding capacity. They need frequent replacement to stay effective.
Change every 60–90 days. Pleated filters have significantly more surface area and can trap finer particles, including allergens. They're the most common type and a good balance of cost and performance.
Cut those intervals in half. Pet hair and dander accelerate filter loading dramatically. If you have a dog or cat, checking your filter monthly and replacing it every 30–45 days is a smart habit regardless of filter type.
How to Check If Yours Needs Changing
Locate your air handler or furnace (often in a closet, utility room, or ceiling). The filter typically slides into a slot on the side or bottom of the unit, or in a dedicated return air vent on the wall. Pull it out and hold it up to a light source. If you can't see light through it, or if it's visibly gray and packed with dust, it needs to go. A new filter should look nearly white or light gray.
Who Buys the Filter?
This varies by lease. In many of our properties, air filter replacement is a tenant responsibility — the filter is a consumable item, similar to light bulbs. Your lease will specify. If you're unsure, check your lease agreement or send us a message through the Tenant Portal and we'll clarify for your specific unit.
Filters are inexpensive — typically $5–$20 depending on size and type — and available at any hardware or home improvement store. Write the dimensions on your phone the first time you pull the filter out. They're printed on the side of the filter frame.
The single easiest way to stay on top of filter changes is a recurring calendar reminder. Set it for every 60 days (or 30 if you have pets). It takes 5 minutes to swap and makes a genuine difference in both air quality and system longevity.
A clean filter is one of the few maintenance tasks where a small, regular effort has a clear and direct payoff: cleaner air, lower energy use, and an HVAC system that lasts longer. It's worth making a habit of.