How often should I clean or replace my chainsaw air filter?

Check the filter every 2–3 tanks of fuel if you use the saw regularly (a few times a week or heavy duty). Light users can stretch it to every 5 tanks or once a season. Clean it when it looks dirty, replace it when it’s worn or won’t clean up—paper filters are usually one-and-done. A clogged filter chokes the engine, causing it to run rich, bog down, and lose power, and can foul the spark plug and gum up the carburetor if ignored.