No, this isn't a joke. Filtrete sells smart air filters that tell you when they need to be replaced. As funny as this might sound, it's a refreshing example of how smart technology can improve our lives.

Why? Well, when's the last time you replaced your air filter? If that question sends you into a cold sweat, congratulations! You understand why we're so excited about smart air filters.

They Tell You When They Need to Be Replaced

No more calendars. No more writing the date on the air filter. Filtrete's smart air filters have a built-in sensor that checks for changes in air pressure and air quality. These changes are sent to your phone's Filtrete app via Bluetooth, and you can track the changes over time. When the air filter needs to be replaced, you receive a notification.

Sadly, all of this happens on your phone. The smart filters don't work with Alexa or Google Assistant. But the Filtrete app has some neat features. It tells you if you need to improve air quality (by opening windows or buying an air purifier), and it tells you the size of the filter, so you don't need to double-check before you buy a replacement.

Additionally, the Filtrete app gives you the option to set up automatic Amazon Dash orders. When it's time to replace the smart air filter, it'll automatically order a replacement from Amazon so that you don't have to hunt one down at the store.

We're not sure why Filtrete's smart air filters use Bluetooth instead of Wi-Fi (if your air filters are tucked in a basement, the distance could present a problem), but it probably has something to do with cost. Filtrete's smart air filters are only $5 more than their regular air filters, which is pretty appealing. Wi-Fi connectivity, which would only be useful for some people, could make the filters more expensive than they should be.

Should You Buy Smart Air Filters?

Smart air filters can certainly make life easier and healthier. Unlike most "smart" products, Filtrete's smart air filters solve an actual problem and are reasonably priced, to boot. If you always forget to replace the air filter, then smart filters are worth a shot.

Of course, you should keep an eye out for anything strange. These filters have only been on the market for a few months, and it's hard to find product reviews that indicate how well the Bluetooth-based smart features work (or if the filter asks to be replaced earlier than it should). It's also clear that 3M replaced an old product listing on Amazon with these, as most of the reviews date back to 2016 and make no mention of smarthome tech.

via How-To Geek https://ift.tt/2JD6OAA