HVAC filter change schedule that actually sticks

A monthly nudge to check the furnace or A/C filter, log the size, and remind you before heavy heating or cooling seasons.

What it does

A dirty filter makes the system work harder, raises the bill, and can even shut the air handler down. ENERGY STAR says to check the air filter once a month on a central air conditioner, furnace or heat pump, and to clean or replace it when it's dirty (at least every three months). Your bot sends that monthly checklist, keeps your filter size and where it lives (closet, attic, hallway), logs when you changed it, and adds a spring cooling tune-up and fall heating tune-up reminder. Renters can use it too if changing the filter is on them. It reminds; it doesn't order filters or call a contractor unless you ask it to draft a message for you to send.

Copy-paste prompt

Be my HVAC filter and tune-up reminder, using ENERGY STAR's advice on keeping heating and cooling efficient.

Our system: [furnace / central A/C / heat pump / not sure]. Filter size: [e.g. 16x25x1, or "I'll check and tell you"]. Where the filter lives: [closet / attic / hallway return]. How many filters: [1 / 2].

On the [1st Saturday] of each month at [9:00 AM], send me a short checklist:
1. Check the filter. If it looks dirty, clean a reusable one or replace a disposable one. ENERGY STAR says check monthly and change at least every 3 months.
2. Remind me: turn the system off at the thermostat before I pull the filter, note the arrow on the old filter (it points toward the furnace or blower), and put the new one in the same way.
3. When I text back "changed" or "still clean," log the date and which filter. If I say the size, save it so future reminders include "grab a [size]."
4. Every spring before heavy cooling, and every fall before heavy heating, remind me to schedule a professional tune-up (ENERGY STAR's seasonal checkup).
5. If I don't know the size or location, walk me through finding it on the next reminder instead of guessing.

Keep it under 6 lines. Never order filters or book a contractor for me. If I ask, draft a short text I can send to our HVAC person.