1. United States
  2. Filtrete Home Filtration Products
  3. About Us
  4. Filtrete™ Brand Products - FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about Filtrete™ Home Filtration Products.

Traditional Air Filters

  • How often should I change my Filtrete filters?

    For maximum effectiveness, we recommend changing 1” filters at least every three months and 4” + filters every 12 months. However, the lifespan of a filter can vary based on the conditions in your home. You may need to change your filter more frequently if your home has any of the following:
     

    • Construction work in progress
    • Furniture or drywall sanding in progress
    • Pets
    • Smokers
    • A continuously running fan

    In these cases, consider changing the filter more often.

  • Fiberglass filters were originally developed to protect your furnace and/or air conditioning system. They were not intended to improve your indoor air quality. Filtrete filters were created to both help protect your furnace equipment AND help clean the air passing through your filter. Our filters help improve your indoor air quality by attracting and capturing microparticles. Your air is cleaned each time it re-circulates through the filter.

  • Surprisingly, even expensive washable/reusable filters can’t capture microparticles as well as electrostatic Filtrete Filters can. The real difference is the electrostatic charge found in most Filtrete Filters.

  • Filtrete Filters that are electrostatically charged have both positive and negative charges on the fibers. The charge helps pull more particles from the air passing through the filter than a filter without a charge.

  • Filtrete Filters are engineered and tested to last three months under a wide range of typical operating conditions. Some of the reasons you may need to change your filter more often include: construction work in progress, furniture or drywall sanding in progress, pets, smokers, or a fan running continuously. If you use any filter for longer than the recommended lifetime, it may begin to restrict airflow or cause your heating/cooling system to malfunction. When in doubt, change the filter more frequently.

  • Atmospheric dust consists of a wide variety of particulates ranging in size from 0.001 micron to a relatively large 100 microns. Because of the weight of the large particles, they will settle on your furniture long before they could reach your filter. The filter will capture some dust, but it will not eliminate the need for dusting.

Filter Change Reminders

  • How can I unsubscribe from the monthly email?

    To unsubscribe from Filtrete 365 emails: You can unsubscribe by tapping “unsubscribe” at the bottom of the email. Or go to filtrete.com and click the “Update 365 Profile” link at the bottom of the page of the homepage. You will get an email link to update your email communication preferences in the “Messaging Center”.

    If you’re receiving monthly Filter Life emails or monthly Brand emails from the Filtrete™ Smart App, you can unsubscribe by tapping “unsubscribe” at the bottom of the email. Or, from the app, tap the Profile icon on the bottom right of the screen and toggle off the selections under “Email Communications”.

  • Filtrete 365 filter life estimates are based on local weather conditions, install date, and certain home environment factor input. Filtrete™ Smart Air Filters use sensor data captured in your home and actual system usage to determine filter life, so it’s very likely that change recommendations between the two programs may not coincide. Filtrete Smart Air Filters feature the most accurate filter life recommendations within the Filtrete family of products.

Smart Air Filters

  • How do I know if I have a Smart Air Filter?

    Filtrete™ Smart Air Filters are most easily recognized by a gold disc-shaped sensor enclosure permanently affixed to your air filter and are currently only available for MPR 1500. If you do not see a gold disc attached to your filter, it is likely you do not have a Filtrete Smart Air Filter.

  • Yes, you will need to download the Filtrete™ Smart App, which is available for free for iOS and Android on the App Store and Google Play. Once downloaded, follow the instructions on the setup screens after creating your account.

  • Follow the instructions provided in the packaging.

    Download and open Filtrete™ Smart App, available for free on the App Store and Google Play
    Enable Bluetooth® on your mobile device
    Follow instructions on screens to pair
    Remove tab on filter’s sensor
    Please be patient, for certain mobile devices Bluetooth pairing may take up to 4 minutes

  • Yes, you will buy a new Smart Air Filter, which will have a new sensor attached. Once a filter has been used, you may dispose of the sensor (per your local electronics disposal guidelines). The sensor is not reusable.

  • Step 1: Place filter on flat surface with sensor side up
    Step 2: Wire is sharp. Wear cut-resistant gloves when removing yellow sensor.
    Step 3: Place one gloved hand on the filter near the sensor to hold the filter in place.
    Step 4: With a pair of pliers, grasp the sensor through the notch and be sure to hold both the cover and backplate.
    Step 5: Carefully twist from side to side to separate the sensor enclosure from the used filter and dispose of sensor in accordance with local electronics guidelines.*
    Step 6: Dispose of filter immediately after sensor removal.

    *If the cover plate separates from the back plate and the circuit board assembly comes loose, collect and dispose of all parts (front and back plastic parts and circuit board with battery).

  • The Smart Air Filters are available in MPR 1500.

  • The Smart Air Filters are available online and in-store with select Filtrete™ Brand retailers.

    Where to Buy

  • No. There are many sizes of air filter slots, but the Smart Air Filter covers the most common sizes. Smart Air Filters are only available in 1” thickness.

  • This happens when the app is open or in the background. Sensor data is not uploaded if the app is deliberately closed. The sensor collects data throughout the day but uploads this data to your mobile device as soon as you are home and within range of the Smart Air Filter (maximum 50 feet). If you are not noticing any updates, ensure your Bluetooth is enabled and your phone and Smart Air Filter are within range.

    Tip: for automatic sensor and app data uploads, enabling your mobile phone’s location services can allow the app to ‘wake-up’ when you arrive home via geo-fencing.

  • Once the app connects to your Smart Air Filter, it starts collecting the data stored in the sensor. This data includes changes in air pressure and temperature, and it has been collected and stored by the sensor since the last time a connection occurred. After sensor data is collected, the app uploads this information to the cloud where proprietary algorithms will then calculate your filter life.

    If your app hasn’t connected to your filter for a while, it’s likely that a significant amount of sensor data has been accumulated. For that reason, it might take up to two hours to complete full data upload, especially in cases where the app hasn’t connected with the sensor for over two weeks.

    It is recommended that you allow the app to access your device’s location “Always”, so that a connection can be triggered when open in the background and in close proximity to your filter.

  • How do I add additional filters?

    You can add additional filters by pressing the blue “+” button on the bottom of the main screen within the app and following the same filter pairing instructions completed with your previous filter. From there, you’ll be able to see your newly added filter data by swiping ‘left’ to view additional filter detail cards.

  • Filter ‘replacement’ is defined as a current filter’s information being removed from the app and a new one added in its place. Upon replacement, all previous filter data and filter life for the previous filter will be removed, with the exception of the name you gave to the old filter (i.e. Home Hallway). We only recommend following this step when you plan on physically taking a filter out of your home and discarding it when a new one is installed in its place. To replace a filter, click the blue “+” button on the home screen and following the pairing steps after clicking “Replace Existing Filter”.

    If you have multiple filters in your household, to add another new filter, simply press the blue “+” button and follow filter pairing steps after clicking “Add Additional Filter”.

  • Although physical appearance may be a good indicator in determining the best time to change your filter, Filtrete™ Air Filters are designed to capture even microscopic particles that are not visible. Your Smart Air Filter life is determined by changes in air pressure in order to help deliver sufficient air flow for your home’s HVAC system. We do not recommend leaving your Smart Air filter installed beyond 0% filter life, regardless of its physical appearance.

  • Filtrete™ Smart Air Filters were designed to help take the guesswork out of filter change and to do so at a time that is best for your home’s environment and heating & cooling system – not too early, and not too late. If the Smart Air Filter is sensing changes in air pressure that indicate rapidly declining filter life, it is possible that it is capturing unwanted particles at a rate higher than normal due to increased HVAC fan usage (extreme hot or cold outdoor temperatures), increased particles in your home’s air (construction, smoke/candle soot, pet dander), or with spikes in poor outdoor air quality (pollution, wild fires, etc.).

  • When you remove your filter from the app, all previous filter information and data will be lost. For security measures, you will not be able to pair that same filter again in the app.

  • Filtrete™ Smart Air Filters: The sensor on Smart Air Filters tracks air filter life by detecting changes in air pressure over time. Filtrete then determines your filter life based on air flow and usage, not just time – allowing you to know the right time to change your air filter – not too early and not too late.

    All other Filtrete™ Air Filters: The barcode scan function creates a simple and easy-to-use daily countdown timer, based solely on install date and your preferred change frequency. For 1” air filters, the three change options are 30 days, 60 days, and 90 days – and for deep pleat filters (4” depths and larger), the timing options are 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months. If you’d like to change the timing frequency after initially selected, you are able to “Edit Filter Timer” by pressing the “Edit” button on your preferred filter in the top right-hand corner of the screen.

  • You can add any Filtrete™ Air Filter to the Filtrete™ Smart app by clicking on the blue “+” button at the bottom center of the app’s main home screen. If you have a Smart Air Filter, you will follow the pairing steps. If you have a traditional Filtrete Air Filter, you will need to scan the barcode from the product packaging to add to the app and set up a “timer” to remind you when to change your filter.

  • The coin cell battery in the Filtrete™ Smart Air Filter sensor is designed to last close to 1 year after the ‘Pull tab’ has been removed – which is much longer than the life of the filter.

  • No. Filter life is determined by measuring changes in pressure that the sensor on the filter detects inside your home, and filter life is based on actual air flow and usage of your heating & cooling system.

Smart Air Purifier

  • How does my Filtrete™ Smart Air Purifier work?

    The Filtrete™ Smart Air Purifier is designed to improve your indoor air quality by helping to capture particles in your home. The Smart Air Purifier uses a laser-based air quality sensor to detect microscopic particles in your air and can automatically adjust the fan speed when poor air quality is detected. We also developed a smarter way to track filter life that is based on device usage, airflow, and air quality*, and will alert you when it’s time to change your filter.

    Your device has both color and numerical-based displays to help you understand the quality of the air you are breathing. (Tap your AQ on the Smart Air Purifier details screen and view your Air Quality chart for more detail.) Since the Smart Air Purifier is connected to the Filtrete™ Smart App, you can also opt-in to receive alerts on your phone when poor air is detected & resolved.

    All Filtrete™ Smart Air Purifiers include a Filtrete™ True HEPA Filter, which captures up to 99.97% of airborne particles**. Our filters use proprietary technology to provide high filtration efficiency and low airflow resistance. These filters have electrostatically charged fibers that act like magnets to capture particles.

    *Based on exposure to an indoor air quality value of 150 or higher.
    **As small as 0.3 microns from the air passing through the filter media. Initial efficiency value.

  • The Smart Air Purifier tracks the life of your filter, so you never miss a change. The filter life percentage is displayed on the top of the device, as well as in the Filtrete™ Smart App on the Smart Air Purifier details screen. When your filter life reaches 10%, the display on the device will turn red. We recommend changing your filter when the display reaches 0%. You can also opt-in to receive notifications on your phone when it’s time to change your filter through the Filtrete™ Smart App. Our filter lasts up to 6 months*.
    *Based on 12 hours of operation per day and common use conditions. Life will vary with room air purifier use and indoor quality.

  • Filtrete™ Smart Air Purifier uses a smarter way to track filter life based on usage, airflow, and air quality measurements rather than just using a timer. Air quality plays a role if the air quality level reaches Poor or higher (an air quality score of 150 or higher) when the filter is being exposed to more airborne particles. This ensures that you’re getting a more personalized filter life for your usage and air quality circumstances.

  • Indoor air quality refers to the condition of the air within your home – this air quality is measured to determine the condition of the air you’re breathing. A critical factor in quantifying air quality is particulate matter. Particulate matter is measured by the mass of pollutants in the air, using micrograms per cubic meter of air or µg/m3.  A higher number means more pollutants, and worse air quality. A lower number means air quality is good with less pollutants in the air. 

  • Air quality is a measure of the pollutants in the air. We use a rating scale to help you quickly understand the quality of the air you breathe. Our Air Quality (AQ) Scale alerts you regarding how clean your indoor air is by translating air quality data into numbers and colors to help you easily translate your indoor air quality.

    Filtrete Air Quality Scale

  • Your Smart Air Purifier detects inhalable particles called PM1, PM2.5, and PM10, along with temperature.

    What is PM1?
    PM1 refers to very fine, inhalable particles with diameters less than 1 micrometer. Examples include combustible fuels like oil, gas, or coal.

    What is PM2.5?
    Fine, inhalable particles, with diameters that are generally 2.5 micrometers and smaller. How small is 2.5 micrometers? Think about a single hair from your head. The average human hair is about 70 micrometers in diameter – making it 30 times larger than the largest fine particle*. In addition to the examples from PM1, examples of PM2.5 include dust, mold spores, and pollen.

    What is PM10?
    Inhalable particles, with diameters that are generally 10 micrometers and smaller*. In addition to the examples from PM1 and PM2.5, examples of PM10 particles are sand and mold.
    * EPA.gov

  • Every 1-2 months turn off and unplug the device and then use a vacuum with a soft attachment end to try to remove any dust or debris which may have collected on or inside the air quality sensor openings. See ‘Device Overview’ in the user manual for location of air quality sensor.

  • The Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) is a measure of the reduction rate (cleaning speed) of specific particulates by an air purifier or other filtration system in a controlled environment. A higher CADR means that the air purifier cleans the air more quickly than a unit with lower CADR. CADR is the one performance measure that can be used to compare all air cleaners, as it reflects both the effectiveness and the air volume processed by the air purifier. CADR is usually measured for three particle types: smoke, dust, and pollen. According to the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) Room Air Cleaner Certification Program, the recommended room size is directly related to the smoke CADR.

  • When your Smart Air Purifier is set to Auto-mode, it will automatically adjust the fan speed based on the indoor air quality level. When dirty air is detected, the fan will automatically increase in speed. When the air has been cleaned, the fan will return to its lowest speed setting. We recommend keeping your device set to this mode to maintain optimal indoor air quality.

  • If you would like to dim or turn off the control panel lights, simply press the LIGHT icon once to dim and twice to turn off completely. To turn the control panel lights back on, press the LIGHT icon again. Lights will automatically turn on again after 12 hours.

  • Why do the control panel lights come back on after I shut them off?

    If you choose to turn off your control panel lights by pressing the Light button two times, the lights will go off for 12 hours before turning back on.

    1. Clean and seal the room, as much as possible, in which the Smart Air Purifier operates.
    2. Continue to dust surfaces and vacuum on a normal schedule.
    3. Close all windows and doors during operation.
    4. Change filter regularly*.
    5. Clean pre-filter screen at least monthly. See ‘Device Overview’ in the user manual for location of pre-filter screens (model ST02 only).

    *The electrostatically charged fibers are most effective when it is new. As the filter is used, the life will be consumed, and the filter’s effectiveness will decrease; the actual filter life will depend on the use conditions in your home.

    • Make sure that any packaging materials have been removed from the filter.
    • Check the air purifier to make sure the air inlet and filtered air outlet are not blocked.
    • Check the condition of the filter and if dirty, replace with a new Filtrete™ Air Purifier Filter.

    • Turn the air purifier off and unplug it before cleaning.
    • The outside of the air purifier can be cleaned with a soft, dirt free, dampened cloth.
    • The air inlet and outlet grills can be cleaned with a small, dry, soft brush.

  • Pre-filters are special filters that help keep the inside of your Filtrete™ Smart Air Purifier – Tower model free from dust and debris. These are different than Filtrete™ HEPA filters – they do not have to be replaced regularly and are meant to protect your device, not to help clean your air.

  • The pre-filters are located at the back of your Filtrete™ Smart Air Purifier – Tower model, underneath the primary filter door. There are two filters, one on each side. Please note, the smaller, console-style Filtrete™ Smart Air Purifier does not have pre-filters.

  • First, turn off your Filtrete™ Smart Air Purifier. Next, pull the two pre-filters out and rinse them off in your sink. Simply run them under tap water to remove any dust and debris. Completely dry the pre-filters before sliding them back into your Smart Air Purifier. Repeat this process each month to help ensure that your device stays clean and running properly.

  • This Smart Air Purifier has a replaceable fuse in the power cord plug. If the air purifier suddenly stops working, first try the steps in the Troubleshooting section. If the Smart Air Purifier is still not working, replace the fuse by following the instructions below

    • Grasp the plug and remove it from the receptacle or other outlet device. Do not unplug by pulling on the cord.
    • Open the fuse cover. Slide open the fuse access cover on top of the attachment plug toward the plug blades.
    • Remove the fuse carefully. A small tool such as a screwdriver may be useful to help pry out the fuse.
    • Risk of fire. Replace the fuse only with a 5 Amp, 125 Volt fuse.
    • Close the fuse cover. Slide closed the fuse access cover on top of the attachment plug.

  • The air purifier model number and electrical rating can be found on the label on the bottom on the air purifier.
    The air purifier serial number can be found on the QR code label which is visible after the filter cover is removed.

    • Be sure the air purifier is properly plugged into a 120V AC outlet.
    • Check if a fuse has blown or if a circuit breaker has been tripped. First check both the home’s fuses and/or circuit breakers, then check the fuse in the air purifier’s power cord. If a circuit breaker has tripped or a fuse has blown, first try to determine the root cause for the fault condition and correct the fault condition before resetting circuit breakers or replacing fuses. If no fault can be found, try replacing the fuse in the air purifier’s power cord. If the fuse blows a second time, discard the air purifier.

  • How can I decrease the noise level?

    • Check the condition of the filter and if dirty, replace with a new Filtrete™ Air Purifier Filter.
    • Make sure that nothing is blocking the air inlet or filtered air outlet.
    • Operate the purifier on a lower fan speed.

  • Your Smart Air Purifier is also an air quality monitor. The air quality sensor inside the air purifier has a small fan that helps improve the accuracy of the air quality readings. The air quality sensor continually operates while the air purifier is plugged in to provide continuous feedback of your home’s air quality. To disable this feature when the product is off, simply unplug the product from the wall.

  • The Smart Air Purifier will not connect to a hidden Wi-Fi network. If you have hidden your home Wi-Fi for privacy reasons, you will have to create a public or guest network to connect your Smart Air Purifier.

  • If you change the room your Smart Air Purifier is in and update the app, your historical air quality data will reset for the new room. However, your data is still there! If you decide to place the device back in the original room and change the name again, you will see historical data for this room.

Filtrete™ Smart App

General

  • Does this work with my tablet or iPad?

    Filtrete™ Smart can work on your preferred tablet device, but please note that screen design is not fully optimized for every screen size. This does not negatively affect basic app functionality.

  • From the “My Screen” page, tap on your filter to see more information.

  • For iOS devices, you can add as many filters as needed. For Android devices, Bluetooth connections are limited to 8 filters in total.

  • Visit the “My Air” screen to check the status of all your filter or devices.

  • By choosing to “Pair Replacement”, your current/old filter will be deleted and your new replacement will be added in its place. Your filter’s settings will be saved and applied to your new replacement (i.e. Location Name, Filter Name).

  • By clicking on “Buy Replacement”, Filtrete™ Smart will show online retailer options to repurchase your current filter type and size based on its unique UPC. By clicking on your preferred retailer, your phone’s web browser will automatically direct you to the retailer’s site to purchase your filter online.

  • Yes, you can see retailers that carry Filtrete filters by clicking the “Products” icon at the bottom of the home screen and then purchase the filters through your preferred retailer’s site.

  • Tips can be found on the bottom task bar in the main app screen by clicking on the “Activity” icon.

  • How to link your Filtrete™ Smart Account with the Alexa App:
     

    • Find the Filtrete™ Smart Skill in the Alexa App
    • Select “Enable to Use”
    • Enter your Filtrete™ Smart login information
    • On the Profile screen, you will see “Connected” next to “Amazon Alexa”

    How to enroll in smart reorders (Note: Updated smart reorders will only work with Filtrete™ Smart Air Filters)
     

    • After linking your account, open the Filtrete™ Smart App and go to the My Air screen
    • Select your Filtrete™ Smart Air Filter and tap to show more details
    • In the detail screen, tap on “Manage Alexa Smart Reorders”; this will take you to the Alexa app
    • From the Device Settings screen, select “Set up smart reorder” or “When my supplies are running low” to manage your notification and order settings
  • How do I add an indoor air quality monitor?

    Currently, the Speck Air Quality Monitor is the only compatible device with the Filtrete™ Smart App. If you have a Speck monitor and wish to see indoor air quality reflected in your Filtrete Smart app, click on the blue “+” on the bottom of the home screen and then “Add Indoor Air Quality Monitor.” Follow the step-by-step instructions to set up your Speck account within the app. For more information, please visit www.specksensor.com.

  • Filtrete™ Smart Air Filter sensors detect changes in air pressure and calculate filter life based on air flow and usage – not just time.

Smart Home Compatibility

  • Does this work with any voice assistants (Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant)?

    Yes, Filtrete™ Smart currently is currently compatible with the Filtrete Smart Alexa Skill and works with Google Assistant as well – start by saying, “Hey Google, talk to Filtrete.”

  • Open the Alexa app on your mobile device. Press the menu bar on the top left of the home screen, and then select “Skills & Games.” Type “Filtrete Smart” in the search bar at the top of the screen and enable the skill. The Alexa app will prompt you to take steps to verify your Filtrete Smart account. Once verified, you will be able to make voice commands such as, “Alexa, ask Filtrete Smart for the status of my filter.”

  • The Google Assistant will begin working with Filtrete by simply stating, “Hey Google, talk to Filtrete.”

  • Yes, you can enable Siri Shortcuts within the ‘My Profile’ section of the App. You’ll find suggestions like, “Hey Siri, do my filters need to be replaced?” or “Hey Siri, check the status of my filters”, which you can add by recording a personalized phrase.

Location-Specific

  • How can I change my location sharing settings?

    For iOS, click on your device “Settings” (outside of the Filtrete Smart App), scroll down and choose “Filtrete Smart” within your app menu, and click on “Location” to adjust your settings.

    For Android devices:

    Pixel and Android 9: Press on device “Settings” (outside of the Filtrete Smart App), Scroll down to “Apps and Permissions”, choose “Filtrete Smart”, press on “Permissions” and then turn on “Location”

    Samsung and Android 8: Press on device “Settings” (outside of the Filtrete Smart App), Scroll down to “Apps”, choose “All Apps” at the top of the screen, scroll down to “Filtrete Smart”, scroll down to “App Settings” and press on “Permissions” then turn on “Location”.

    Samsung and Android 6.0.1: Press on device “Settings” (outside of the Filtrete Smart App), activate the “DEVICE” tab, press on “Applications”, press on “Application manager”, choose “All Apps” at the top of the screen, scroll down to “Filtrete Smart”, press on “Permissions” then turn on “Location”.

  • Allowing location services helps improve the user experience.

    For iOS:
    Location services are used to connect with your Smart Air Filter when within close proximity (while the app is in the background) and to display outdoor air quality (when the app is open). By enabling location services and choosing “Always Allow”, the app will know when you’re within the geo-fence proximity and will automatically trigger a connection with the Filtrete™ Smart Air Filter sensor without requiring additional steps for the user.

    For Android:
    Location services allow you to view outdoor air quality information for your current location, and only accesses your location when the app is open to display your current outdoor air quality. If you have added an Outdoor Air Quality widget and selected current location as the option, the app will use your location while it is running in the background ONLY to display your current location’s air quality in the widget.

    The Filtrete™ Smart App needs access to Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE) in order to connect and pair with the Smart Air Filter sensor. It's a requirement from the Android operating system to allow location services in order to access Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) connectivity. If you would like to learn more about these Android requirements, you can view the information below:

    https://developer.android.com/reference/android/bluetooth/le/BluetoothLeScanner.html#startScan(android.bluetooth.le.ScanCallback)

    For that reason, the Filtrete Smart App asks for location access type “Allow all the time” so that it can access Bluetooth, even when it’s open in the background. This allows the app to gather data from the sensor without requiring additional steps (like opening the app).

  • For iOS:
    If the Filtrete Smart App does not have access to your location, we are not able to trigger a connection with your filter when you’re in close proximity (at home, for example). Without location access to the app, you will need to manually open the app when you’re close to your filter in order to collect sensor data to calculate filter life.

    If your app has not connected to your filter’s sensor in over 7 days, we use our backup system to estimate your filter life based on outdoor weather information available from your filter’s location. This backup calculation estimates your HVAC run-time by using outdoor weather data, such as temperature, so the filter life is reduced based on the estimate HVAC run-time of your home location’s weather trends.

    For Android:
    It is a requirement from the Android operating system that location services is granted for the Filtrete Smart App to use Bluetooth®. If you deny access to location services “while using the app” or “all the time”, the app will not be able to pair and connect with your Smart Air Filter to collect the data needed to calculate filter life. If you choose to grant access to location services, but not “all the time”, “only while using the app”, this means that the Filtrete Smart App will only be able to connect to your filter when the app is open and you are within close proximity to your filter (at home, for example). If you choose to grant access to location services “all of the time”, a connection will automatically be triggered to collect data when you are in close proximity to your filter, even if the app is in the background.
    If your app has not connected to your filter’s sensor in over 7 days, we use our backup system to estimate your filter life based on outdoor weather information available from your filter’s location. This backup calculation estimates your HVAC run-time by using outdoor weather data, such as temperature, so the filter life is reduced based on the estimate HVAC run-time of your home location’s weather trends.

  • The outdoor air quality information is pulled from the closest EPA Weather Station, which shows current and historical information based on your selected location. This reflects outdoor air quality only. To view indoor air quality, a separate compatible indoor air quality monitor needs to be purchased and paired like PurpleAir air quality monitors.

  • You can add additional outdoor air quality locations by pressing the location icon in the upper right corner and searching for your location and then tap the + when you find your location.

Troubleshooting

  • The app doesn’t find my sensor when trying to pair.

    This could mean a couple things.
     

    • Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone.
    • Make sure the “battery tab” has been removed from the sensor. A signal won’t be sent out to your phone until this battery tab has been removed.
    • Make sure your phone and your Smart Air Filter are in close proximity to one another.

    If all of the steps listed above are being followed and your sensor is still not pairing, please reach out to the customer support team at 1-800-388-3458 know and they will assist you.

    This could mean a couple things.
     

    • Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone.
    • Make sure the “battery tab” has been removed from the sensor. A signal won’t be sent out to your phone until this battery tab has been removed.
    • Make sure your phone and your Smart Air Filter are in close proximity to one another.

    If all of the steps listed above are being followed and your sensor is still not pairing, please reach out to the customer support team at 1-800-388-3458 know and they will assist you.

  • This could mean there is a slight delay from the connection (data upload cloud). The process may go faster if the mobile device is within good cellular signal range or connected to a strong wi-fi signal. Don’t worry, as long as all instruction steps are followed, the connection should be made with another try or two. Let our support team know if it doesn’t. The customer support team can be reached at 1-800-388-3458.
    This could mean there is a slight delay from the connection (data upload cloud). The process may go faster if the mobile device is within good cellular signal range or connected to a strong wi-fi signal. Don’t worry, as long as all instruction steps are followed, the connection should be made with another try or two. Let our support team know if it doesn’t. The customer support team can be reached at 1-800-388-3458.
  • Follow the instructions provided in the packaging.
     

    • Download and open Filtrete Smart App, available for free on the App Store and Google Play
    • Enable Bluetooth® on your mobile device
    • Follow instructions on screens to pair
    • Remove tab on filter’s sensor
    • Please be patient, for certain mobile devices Bluetooth® pairing may take up to 4 minutes

    For iOS devices:
    If you’re trying to pull down in the filter details to connect to your filter but you see the message that connection failed, there are a few reasons why this could be happening.
     

    • You need to be within range (approximately 50 feet) for the Bluetooth® connection to be made between the Filtrete™ Smart App and the Smart Air Filter
    • If the app doesn’t have access to ‘location services’, make sure to open the app when in close proximity with the Smart Air Filter. If you want the app to automatically connect and update, allow access to location ‘always’ on the iOS settings screen.
    • Please don’t try to connect to your Smart Air Filter through the Bluetooth® settings on your phone or other third-party applications, as it could hinder the app from connecting to the filter.
    • Too many walls between you and your filter can also prevent the app from finding and connecting to your Smart Air Filter. You will want to be within closer range of the filter for the app to update.
    • If none of the above helps, you might have a defective sensor on your Smart Air Filter. Please contact our support team at 1-800-388-3458 for additional assistance.

    For Android devices:
    If you’re trying to pull down on the Filter Details page to connect to your filter and you see the message that ‘the connection failed’, there are a few reasons why this could be happening.
     

    • You need to be within range (approximately 50 feet) for the Bluetooth® connection to be made between the Filtrete™ Smart App and the Smart Air Filter.
    • On Android devices, the operating system requires ‘location access’ for the Bluetooth® connection to work. Make sure you have granted access to location on the ‘My Profile’ screen. For more information, see section ‘Location-Specific Questions’ below.
    • If you have granted access to location “Only while using the app”, make sure you keep the app open during the connection process. That allows the app to trigger a connection with the Smart Air Filter. Allowing the app to access your location “all the time” removes the need to keep the app open, since the app can trigger a connection when you are within range of your filter.
    • Please don’t try to connect to your Smart Air Filter through the Android Bluetooth® settings on your phone or other third-party applications, as it could hinder the app from connecting to the filter.
    • Too many walls between you and your filter can also prevent the app from finding and connecting to your Smart Air Filter. You will want to be within closer range of the filter for the app to update.

    If none of the above helps, you might have a defective sensor on your Smart Air Filter. Please contact our support team at 1-800-388-3458 for additional assistance.

    Follow the instructions provided in the packaging.
     

    • Download and open Filtrete Smart App, available for free on the App Store and Google Play
    • Enable Bluetooth® on your mobile device
    • Follow instructions on screens to pair
    • Remove tab on filter’s sensor
    • Please be patient, for certain mobile devices Bluetooth® pairing may take up to 4 minutes
    • I’m Having Issues Connecting to My Filter

    For iOS devices:
    If you’re trying to pull down in the filter details to connect to your filter but you see the message that connection failed, there are a few reasons why this could be happening.
     

    • You need to be within range (approximately 50 feet) for the Bluetooth® connection to be made between the Filtrete™ Smart App and the Smart Air Filter
    • If the app doesn’t have access to ‘location services’, make sure to open the app when in close proximity with the Smart Air Filter. If you want the app to automatically connect and update, allow access to location ‘always’ on the iOS settings screen.
    • Please don’t try to connect to your Smart Air Filter through the Bluetooth® settings on your phone or other third-party applications, as it could hinder the app from connecting to the filter.
    • Too many walls between you and your filter can also prevent the app from finding and connecting to your Smart Air Filter. You will want to be within closer range of the filter for the app to update.
    • If none of the above helps, you might have a defective sensor on your Smart Air Filter. Please contact our support team at 1-800-388-3458 for additional assistance.

    For Android devices:
    If you’re trying to pull down on the Filter Details page to connect to your filter and you see the message that ‘the connection failed’, there are a few reasons why this could be happening.
     

    • You need to be within range (approximately 50 feet) for the Bluetooth® connection to be made between the Filtrete™ Smart App and the Smart Air Filter.
    • On Android devices, the operating system requires ‘location access’ for the Bluetooth® connection to work. Make sure you have granted access to location on the ‘My Profile’ screen. For more information, see section ‘Location-Specific Questions’ below.
    • If you have granted access to location “Only while using the app”, make sure you keep the app open during the connection process. That allows the app to trigger a connection with the Smart Air Filter. Allowing the app to access your location “all the time” removes the need to keep the app open, since the app can trigger a connection when you are within range of your filter.
    • Please don’t try to connect to your Smart Air Filter through the Android Bluetooth® settings on your phone or other third-party applications, as it could hinder the app from connecting to the filter.
    • Too many walls between you and your filter can also prevent the app from finding and connecting to your Smart Air Filter. You will want to be within closer range of the filter for the app to update.

    If none of the above helps, you might have a defective sensor on your Smart Air Filter. Please contact our support team at 1-800-388-3458 for additional assistance.

  • After extensive testing, Filtrete™ Brand found the Bluetooth® sensor could connect to a phone throughout most areas of large homes. Typical range for Bluetooth is approximately 50ft. Additionally, a connection to the sensor does not need to be constant for data to flow; the sensor only needs to be connected for a minimal amount of time to upload about a week’s worth of stored sensor data. However, it is important to leave your app running in the background.

  • Ensure that the Filtrete™ Smart App is open on your mobile device, your Bluetooth is enabled, and your phone is within range (approx. 50 ft) of the Smart Air Filter. Once these factors are met, your Filtrete Smart app is designed to upload sensor data automatically, and a new filter life percentage will be calculated and shown accordingly. If your filter has not received updates in some time, it may take a few hours for all of the data to fully upload to the app and the cloud. If that is the case, please leave the Filtrete Smart App open in the background on your phone.

  • This could occur for a variety of reasons. Oftentimes, if your phone hasn’t had a chance to upload information from the Filtrete Smart Air Filter for a number of days, it might need up to an hour’s worth of upload time to fully receive all pressure data stored on the sensor. This time to upload can also be affected by how strong your cell phone service or wi-fi signal might be, as the sensor data needs time to upload to the cloud for filter life calculation. You will know if your filter sensor is uploading by the word “Updating…” to the right of the (i) icon on the filter detail page.

  • Filtrete™ Smart relies on a web crawling service to identify available retailers that carry your specific Smart Air Filter. If no retailer is showing up, try finding your filter from the product catalog within the app and select your type and size to see a potentially broader view of retailers.

  • It is common to wait several minutes before receiving a verification email, but if more than ten minutes has passed, it’s recommended to check your SPAM or Junk folder as some email programs handle incoming emails differently. If no email shows up in these folders, it’s possible the email sign-up was written differently than your actual email address. Please feel free to write to FiltreteBrand@3M.com or call 1-800-388-3458 for any account creation issues or challenges.

    A: It is common to wait several minutes before receiving a verification email, but if more than ten minutes has passed, it’s recommended to check your SPAM or Junk folder as some email programs handle incoming emails differently. If no email shows up in these folders, it’s possible the email sign-up was written differently than your actual email address. Please feel free to write to FiltreteBrand@3M.com or call 1-800-388-3458 for any account creation issues or challenges.

  • You may call our team toll-free at 1-800-388-3458.
    Updated customer support team hours:
    Weekdays, Monday-Friday: 7am-7pm (CST)

    You may call our team toll-free at 1-800-388-3458.

    Updated customer support team hours:
    Weekdays, Monday-Friday: 7am-7pm (CST)

Account Settings & Security

  • Why do you need to know my user profile information?

    Understanding what makes your home unique allows Filtrete™ Smart to provide more relevant content and tips to help you improve your indoor air quality. This information is not required, however, and basic app functionality will not be negatively impacted if you choose not to fill out the profile settings.

  • To change, click the “Profile” icon on the bottom-right of the main screen, select “My Home” and then and you will be able to update your profile.

  • To change notifications, click the “My Profile” icon on the bottom-right of the main screen then under “Notifications” or “Email Communications” toggle on which information you’d like to receive.

  • To help you understand your outdoor air quality, Filtrete™ Smart Air uses your zip code to deliver updated information on the air quality outside. We do not use the zip code for any other purposes.

  • Please click on the “Forgot Password” link under “login” and a new password will be emailed to you. From there, you can change it.

  • Within the Filtrete™ Smart App, click on the “Profile” icon on the bottom-right of the home screen, and look under your email address listed at the top of the screen for a link to “change my password”. If this link is not there, it is likely that you utilized social login with Facebook or Google and would need to change your password through your respective social login platform.

  • Today, Filtrete™ Smart supports English and French Canadian. The language shown is based on the default language settings on your mobile phone. Language will only change if your phone’s language settings are changed.

  • All data falls under the protection of 3M’s Legal and Privacy policies. For more information, please click on the links at the bottom of the “Profile” screen.

  • To delete your account, click on the profile icon at the bottom right of the screen, scroll to the bottom and select “delete my account”. Follow the prompts to delete your account. Please note, this action cannot be undone.

Water Filtration