Change Furnace Filters Frequently to Maximize Its Efficiency
Learn how to keep your air clean, your appliances working smoothly, and your energy costs low all at the same time by changing your furnace filter.
Dust bunnies are growing, dog hair is building up, and allergies are worsening—oh no, it’s the furnace filter! Changing a furnace filter is probably the quickest and easiest way to improve the performance of your heating system and help clean the air in your house.
The purpose of a furnace filter is to eliminate pollutants from your interior air while also keeping air moving smoothly through your heating and cooling system. The air that circulates through your system travels through the filter, which is generally placed between the return air ducting and your furnace or air handler, where pollutants are removed before the air is sent to the heating or cooling system for conditioning.
Contaminants are eliminated not just to clean your interior air, but also to keep your HVAC components clean. Your furnace filter keeps dirt and debris from interfering with the operation of your HVAC system.
Dirt and debris might build within your furnace or air handler as a result of a filthy air filter, causing your unit to be damaged and use more energy, boosting your electricity costs and requiring HVAC repair. Proper maintenance of your furnace is one of the key steps in order for it to work properly anjd efficiently.
Because your HVAC system circulates the majority of the air in your home, furnace filters are your first line of defense against dust and airborne allergens.
WHEN TO CHANGE YOUR FURNACE FILTER?
Here are some basic suggestions for how often to change furnace filters—as always, consult your owner’s handbook for the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations.
A simple fiberglass furnace filter should be changed every one to two months, and paper furnace filters every four months to a year.
Electrostatic furnace filters have the longest lifespan of any kind, lasting many years if cleaned every four to six weeks. If any of the following are true, such furnace filters should be cleaned more frequently:
- You have one or more furry companions.
- You’ve noticed an excessive to moderate buildup of dust in your home.
- One or more members in your household smoke.
- The majority of the time, your heating system’s fan is turned on.
- You regularly open your doors and windows.
- You’ve noticed a buildup of dust or debris on your existing filter.
WHICH FURNACE FILTER SHOULD YOU USE?
There are various furnace filtration solutions available.
Disposable Fiberglass
The most basic model is a low-cost disposable fiberglass filter contained within a cardboard frame that is generally one or two inches thick and available in a range of sizes. The fiberglass inside catches bigger dust and debris particles. These filters, like the E-Z Flow Air Filters, are intended to be discarded after one to two months of use.
Disposable Pleated Paper Filter
A disposable pleated paper filter is a step up from the basic filter and will remove tiny particles of dust, dirt, and pollen. Varieties like these are a little more expensive, but they may last anywhere from four months to a year.
Reusable Electrostatic Filters
Reusable electrostatic filters, which are designed to capture even smoke and tiny airborne particles, are the most expensive filters.
HOW TO CHANGE A FURNACE FILTER
Changing the filter is a simple process. Again, consult your handbook for proper procedure, but the general approach for changing a furnace filter is as follows:
- Switch off the furnace.
- Locate and remove the service panel.
- Remove the old filter (found near the intake/outtake blower fan).
- Insert a new filter.
- Re-start the furnace.
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