The Filtrete brand from 3M announced the arrival of the Filtrete Smart Air Filter, the first-ever Bluetooth-enabled HVAC air filter for the home. The new filter takes the guesswork out of when it’s time for a filter change, and provides other information so homeowners can take control of their home’s air.

Filtrete Smart Air Filters contain a Bluetooth-enabled pressure sensor that, when paired with the new Filtrete Smart App, will notify users when the filter needs to be replaced based on air flow and usage, not just time. The Filtrete Smart App also provides data on outside air quality and gives helpful tips for helping to improve air quality indoors. Users can decide how much interaction they have with the Filtrete Smart App by opting-in to specific smartphone notifications to alert them when it’s time to change their filter or even when outdoor air quality in their area is poor.

“When we talk with consumers, many know their air filter is designed to last on average three months, but every home is unique. Homeowners are unsure how their home’s environment impacts their indoor air and the optimal time to change their air filter, And, they often forget important details like their filter size and type when it is time to change,” says Amanda Dauphinais, Global Business Unit manager, Filtrete Brand. “The Filtrete Smart Air Filter takes the guess work out, helping homeowners take control of the air in their homes.”

While the EPA recommends checking an air filter on a monthly basis and changing them at least quarterly, Filtrete research shows it’s not uncommon for consumers to wait much longer between filter changes.

“The Filtrete Smart Air Filter helps monitor factors related to indoor air quality and provides data-driven alerts and replacement reminders, which is important because most people spend up to 90% of their time indoors,” continues Dauphinais. “When combined with exclusive 3M filtration technology, the Filtrete Smart Air Filter is a powerful and smart way to cleaner, fresher air in the home.”

The Filtrete Smart App logs outdoor air quality information based on the home’s location and provides tips to users on how to improve the air quality inside. Every home is a different environment, and various factors impact the lifespan of an air filter. For instance, household activities like vacuuming, cooking, and remodeling projects or the presence of pets can impact how long the air filter will last. The weather and other environmental concerns like smog and humidity also impact the air quality inside a home and may play a role in how often an air filter needs to be replaced.

Filtrete Smart Air Filters will be available at participating retailers nationwide in spring 2018. The MSRP ranges from $21.99-29.99 depending on filtration level and are compatible with iOS and Android devices.