multigrade filters how lomg do they last?

[RIchardn]

I understand that above the lens filters for VC printing do not last forever I have a set of Ilford filters I have been using for over 2 years now when should I be thinking about replacing them?
thanks
Richard

 

[Pinholemaster]

Depends on how funky they get from use, and how long they are truly exposed to light. As long as the are clean, they should last much longer than 2 years.

Since you like in England, why not call Ilford, as for technical support, and learn if they've done any testing on how their VC filters age. If you get a good answer, please share it here.

 

[Simon R Galley]

Dear Richard,

Pinholemaster is correct, it depends how you look after them, handle them carefully by the edges not between your fingers, never handle with wet / damp hands, never leave them on the darkroom bench, always return them to the packet after use, store them in a clean area not exposed to large temperature fluctuations, after that its a 'how much you use them calculation' obviously grades 2 to 3 get used the most, we would say for the average user they should easily last 3 years or more, I would personally replace after 5 years of use.

Simon ILFORD Photo / HARMAN technology Limited .

 

[RIchardn]

many thanks for your help sounds like I have a couple more years of careful use.
Richard