Do’s and Don’ts: Changing Your Furnace Filter

Your furnace and air conditioner keep you comfortable all year long, and the air filter plays a major role. As air flows through the heating and cooling system, the filter collects dust and other airborne particles, keeping the air clean. As time goes by, however, the filter clogs, reducing the efficiency of the furnace or air conditoner.

By changing your filter regularly, you’ll save energy and money, and you’ll be breathing better-quality indoor air. To optimize system efficiency and your indoor environment, keep these tips in mind.

Do:

Change your filter regularly

Typically, you should replace your filter at least every two or three months, although some newer heating and cooling systems only need filters changed every six months. Other factors that can increase replacement frequency include pets and construction. Both can clog filters faster.

Check your filter rating

If anyone in your household suffers from allergies or a respiratory condition, you’ll probably need a filter with a Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) between 12 and 20. You’ll also have to change the filter more frequently.

Get a tuneup

Changing your filter isn’t enough to ensure comfort and efficiency. Hire a licensed professional check your furnace and air conditioner at least once a year to make sure it’s operating properly. In the summer, wet filters indicate that your air conditioner drip pan drain pipe is clogged.

Don’t:

Wait until the filter is completely clogged

You should replace it as soon as it looks dirty. Any amount of dirt will reduce the efficiency of your heating or cooling system.

Buy a cheap filter

A higher-quality filter will need changed less frequently. Over the long term, it’ll probably cost the same as buying and replacing cheaper filters.

Ignore your furnace turning on and off frequently

This is a common sign of a dirty filter. Check your filter as soon as you notice this problem.

Dirty filters are a major cause of system failure. Changing filters regularly is a small investment in time and money that will make your home more comfortable and efficient, and it may save you some big headaches down the road.

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