Air Filter Replacement Calculator Formula

Understand the math behind the air filter replacement calculator. Each variable explained with a worked example.

Formulas Used

Replace Every

replacement_days = round(adjusted_life)

Filters per Year

annual_filters = ceil(365 / adjusted_life)

Annual Filter Cost

annual_cost = ceil(365 / adjusted_life) * filter_cost

Variables

VariableDescriptionDefault
filter_life_daysRated Filter Life(days)90
petsNumber of Pets1
allergy_householdAllergies in Household (0=no, 1=yes)0
filter_costCost per Filter(USD)15
adjusted_lifeDerived value= filter_life_days * max(1 - pets * 0.15 - allergy_household * 0.2, 0.3)calculated

How It Works

HVAC Air Filter Replacement

Air filters trap dust, pollen, and pet dander. Replacing them on time maintains air quality and HVAC efficiency.

Adjusted Replacement Interval

Adjusted Life = Rated Life x (1 - Pet Factor - Allergy Factor)

Each pet reduces filter life by about 15%, and allergy concerns warrant replacing 20% sooner. A clogged filter reduces airflow, increases energy costs by 5-15%, and can damage the HVAC system.

Worked Example

A 90-day rated filter in a home with 1 pet and no allergies, costing $15 each.

filter_life_days = 90pets = 1allergy_household = 0filter_cost = 15
  1. 01Adjusted life = 90 x (1 - 0.15 - 0) = 90 x 0.85 = 76.5 days
  2. 02Rounded = 77 days
  3. 03Filters per year = ceil(365 / 76.5) = 5 filters
  4. 04Annual cost = 5 x $15 = $75