Step 1: Turn Off Your HVAC System

• Before checking your filter, turn off your heating or cooling system for safety.

• You can do this via your thermostat or the circuit breaker.

Step 2: Locate Your Air Filter

• Most homes have the air filter in one of these places:

  • Return air vent (on a wall or ceiling)

  • Inside the HVAC system (next to the blower motor or behind a service panel)

Tip: If you have multiple return vents, check each one for a filter.

Step 3: Remove the Filter

• Gently slide the filter out from the slot or grille.

• Be cautious — used filters can be dusty!

Step 4: Read the Filter Size

• Look for the size printed on the edge of the filter — it’s usually in this format:
  Width x Height x Thickness (e.g., 16x25x1 inches)

• If there’s no label, measure it yourself with a tape measure (in inches).

Step 5: Note the Filter Type

• Check for any other labels like:

  • MERV rating (e.g., MERV 8, 11, 13)

  • Brand or model number

  • "Pleated" or "fiberglass" material type

Step 6: Take a Photo (Optional but Helpful)

• Snap a photo of the filter and its size label for easy reference later when ordering or consulting with a technician.

Step 7: Replace or Reinsert the Filter

• If the filter is still usable, slide it back in.

• If it's dirty or due for replacement (usually every 1–3 months), get in contact with us! We will come change it.

• Filter Renew LLC goes beyond basic filter replacements, offering expert installation and personalized consultations for optimal air quality and HVAC performance.

• Our educated team tailors service to your home, helping you understand your filter needs with clarity and convenience.

• Flexible options available—choose a subscription or request on-demand installations without a commitment.

• Smart technology powers timely reminders, estimating the right replacement time to save you time and effort.

• You get more than a filter you get expert care, innovation, and a seamless experience focused on your comfort.

• Filter Renew LLC offers high-quality, American-made MERV filters for all HVAC and air quality needs.

• Subscription includes options for MERV 8, 11, and 13:

  • MERV 8: Great for general households—captures dust, pollen, pet dander.

  • MERV 11: Ideal for homes with pets or allergies—traps mold spores and fine dust.

  • MERV 13: Best for allergy sufferers or polluted areas—captures ultra-fine particles like smoke and some bacteria.

• Contact us to help you choose the right filter based on your priorities—air quality, allergen control, or system longevity.

• Filter lifespan is tracked based on season, HVAC usage, home environment, and filter type (MERV 8–13).

• Timely reminders via email or text let you know the ideal time for a replacement.

• Easily manage your service—confirm, reschedule, or request help as needed.

• Check the Filter’s Label:
  • Most air filters have size measurements printed on the side.
  • Look for two sizes:
    • Nominal Size: Written in large print, this is the rounded, standard size (e.g., 20x25x4).
    • Actual Size: Written in smaller print next to the nominal size, this is the precise measurement (e.g., 19.50 x 24.50 x 3.63).
  • If the label is present, note both sizes for ordering accuracy.
• Measure Manually if No Label:
  • If the size isn’t printed, use a tape measure to determine the dimensions.
  • Measure the following:
    • Length: One of the two larger dimensions.
    • Width: The other larger dimension.
    • Depth: The smallest dimension, typically the thickness of the filter.
  • Tip: Measure in inches for standard HVAC filters.
• Understand Dimension Conventions:
  • Length and Width: These are interchangeable for air filters.
    • Conventionally, the larger measurement is called the width, and the smaller is the length.
  • Depth: Almost always the smallest dimension (e.g., 1” or 4”).
  • Example: For a filter measuring 12” x 20” x 1”:
    • Width: 20” (larger)
    • Length: 12” (smaller)
    • Depth: 1” (smallest)

We recommend getting your filters changed every 1-6 months depending on the filter, usage and time of the year. 3 months is the recommendation from most equipment manufacturers. 

• Pets: If you have pets (as asked in your script), pet dander can clog filters faster. Change every 30-60 days.
• Allergies: For households with allergy sufferers (another factor you consider), a higher MERV rating (e.g., 11 or 13) traps more particles but may clog faster. Change every 30-60 days to maintain air quality.
• Location and Air Quality: In areas with high dust or pollen (e.g., Flower Mound, TX, which has moderate pollen levels in spring), filters may need replacing every 30-45 days during peak seasons.
• Usage: If your HVAC runs frequently (e.g., hot Texas summers), filters will collect more debris, so lean toward 30 days.
• Household Size: More occupants mean more dust and dander. For a family of 4+, change every 45-60 days.

Step 1: Understand What MERV Ratings Mean

MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) ratings indicate how well an air filter captures particles. Higher MERV ratings mean better filtration but may impact airflow in some HVAC systems. Here’s a quick breakdown:

MERVCapturesBest ForMERV 8Dust, pollen, lint, pet danderStandard residential useMERV 11All of MERV 8 + mold spores, fine dust, auto fumesHomes with pets or allergiesMERV 13All of MERV 11 + bacteria, smoke, virus carriersHealth-sensitive homes Step 2: Assess Your Home & Lifestyle Needs

Answer these questions to determine which MERV rating suits your needs:

• Do you have pets?
  • Yes → Consider MERV 11 (captures pet dander) or MERV 13 (maximum pet dander and odor control).
  • No → MERV 8 may be sufficient if you have no other concerns.
• Do you or anyone in your home have allergies, asthma, or respiratory issues?
  • Yes → MERV 11 (good for allergens) or MERV 13 (best for respiratory health).
  • No → MERV 8 may be enough unless other factors apply.
• Is there anyone in the household who is immunocompromised, elderly, or a baby?
  • Yes → MERV 13 is preferred to reduce bacteria and virus carriers.
  • No → MERV 8 or 11 may suffice depending on other needs.
• Do you live in an urban area or near construction/traffic pollution (e.g., busy DFW areas)?
  • Yes → MERV 11 (captures auto fumes) or MERV 13 (better for fine pollutants).
  • No → MERV 8 is likely fine for rural or less polluted areas like some parts of Flower Mound.
• Do you want to reduce smoke, bacteria, and viruses in the air?
  • Yes → MERV 13 (captures the smallest particles, including smoke and virus carriers).
  • No → MERV 8 or 11 may be adequate.
• Do you simply want to protect your HVAC system and reduce visible dust without reducing airflow?
  • Yes → MERV 8 is sufficient for basic protection and airflow.

Step 3: Consider Your HVAC System

Higher MERV ratings (like 13) can restrict airflow, which may strain older or low-power HVAC systems. Here’s how to ensure compatibility:

• MERV 8 and 11: Safe for most residential HVAC systems, including older units common in DFW homes.
• MERV 13: Best for air quality but may reduce airflow. Check your HVAC manual or ask a technician if your system supports high-efficiency filters.
• Tip: If you’re unsure about your system, start with MERV 8 or 11 to avoid strain, or contact me for expert advice.