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When it comes to changing out your furnace filter, there are two key rules you should follow:
Here at Filterbuy, we recommend replacing your air filters out at least every 90 days or 3 months, especially for heating and cooling equipment. However, in some cases, it might make more sense to change them sooner rather than later, which is why checking the furnace filter should be a monthly maintenance measure. Continue reading to learn more about changing your filters.
When talking about HVAC maintenance, furnace filters often go overlooked. But since these parts serve as a barrier, protecting furnace components from harmful airborne particles, it’s important to change them regularly.
The first step in replacing a furnace filter is determining whether you need a furnace filter. Not all central air systems have a furnace filter. It could be a matter of not having a furnace in general or the filter being located in another more centralized spot.
If you see a compartment, you'll need a furnace filter. If you don't see a slot or door, you likely have a central air unit with two intake filters rather than a furnace box filter. There might also be no heating component; therefore, a furnace filter isn't needed.
Knowing the function and type of furnace filters helps you identify when these parts need replacing. One dominant indication of a filter needing a change is an obvious decrease in air quality. This manifests as a dusty or stuffy environment, worsened allergies, and even breathing problems.
Another indication is an unexpected rise in energy costs. Filters blocked with harmful particles drive furnaces to operate harder, leading to increased energy consumption. Likewise, if your heating system seems to operate non-stop but fails to maintain the set temperature, this may indicate that your filter is impeding the airflow. So, change your filter when you see these signs to avoid costly problems.
Once you understand your furnace filter's importance, check it regularly. Learn how to replace it too. But, don't worry if you're not handy with DIY tasks. Replacing it is one of the easiest home fixes.Here's how:
For modern heating systems, this may not be necessary because they utilize an electric pilot component. Older furnaces often had a gas pilot light that would continuously burn when the gas was on. For all furnace systems, it's best to shut them off completely if you're replacing the furnace filter.
If you follow the advice of experts and buy in bulk, label each new filter with the date you plan to install it. Space them out by 3 months during the heating off-season and every 30 days during times when you'll be regularly running your heating system.
Open or slide the door panel to get access to the furnace and filter. As mentioned above, you usually find the furnace filter near where the cool air enters the furnace in the cold air return duct or the entrance to the blower chamber (or sometimes in both locations).
Remove the old and dirty air filter and set it aside to be properly recycled.
Slide your replacement and clean furnace filter into the slot, ensuring the filter media side goes against the airflow. Make sure the airflow arrows on the side of the new filter are pointing in the right direction toward the blower and away from the cold air. Replace the panel or door, and you're done.
Again, for newer furnaces, this may not be a necessary step, but for older furnaces, you'll need to turn the gas back on and reignite the pilot light so the filter can start doing its job.
Commit to regular upkeep for optimal performance and longevity of your system. This practice not only prolongs the filter's operational life but also boosts furnace efficiency.
Different types of filters require various maintenance levels. For example, disposable fiberglass filters usually need replacement every month, whereas high-efficiency pleated filters could last six months or longer with consistent checks. However, these are just general guidelines. Dust levels in your home or the presence of pets can influence the filter's lifespan.
Monthly cleaning and inspection of your furnace filter is a must. And if you find any damage during your routine check, immediately replace the filter. Note how any damage or blockage in the filter can cause your heating system to overwork, shortening its service life and inflating energy costs.
Lastly, make it a habit to always buy the correct filter size. Remember that unfiltered air can enter your system through an ill-fitting filter, causing damage and reducing efficiency. By understanding beforehand your filter type and maintaining it consistently, furnace performance can be improved and its lifespan extended. Trust us, this will make your life easy in the future.
Your furnace filter replacement schedule depends primarily on the filter type and usage patterns. Premium MERV-rated filters typically last 3-6 months, while basic fiberglass filters need monthly replacement. For optimal performance, check your filter monthly during heavy use seasons (summer and winter) and replace it when it appears dirty or according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Yes, replacing your furnace filter is a simple DIY maintenance task that saves money and improves system performance. Simply locate your furnace's filter compartment, remove the old filter, and insert the new one following the airflow arrow printed on the frame. Regular replacement maintains healthy air quality and extends your furnace's operational life.
Yes, always turn off your furnace at the thermostat and circuit breaker before changing the filter. This essential safety step prevents the blower from activating during maintenance and protects both you and your HVAC system during the filter replacement process.
Installing a furnace filter backward significantly impairs your HVAC system's performance. The filter's directional design means reverse installation restricts proper airflow, forcing your furnace to work harder and consume more energy. This added strain can damage your system's components and lead to premature equipment failure.
Common signs of a dirty furnace filter include visible gray or brown discoloration, reduced airflow from vents, longer heating cycles, increased energy bills, and more dust accumulation throughout your home. A clean filter should appear light-colored, while a dirty one shows obvious debris accumulation.
Professional HVAC technicians recommend several reliable indicators for filter replacement: visible dirt accumulation, reduced airflow, increased energy bills, and more frequent furnace cycling. Regular visual inspection helps maintain optimal system performance and prevent potential damage from a clogged filter.
Neglecting furnace filter replacement leads to serious consequences for your HVAC system and home environment. A clogged filter restricts airflow, increases energy consumption, strains system components, and allows dust and allergens to circulate. This negligence results in higher utility bills, reduced indoor air quality, and potential system damage.
Changing a furnace filter is straightforward for most homeowners. The main considerations are selecting the correct size and type for your system and ensuring proper installation direction. While the physical replacement is simple, understanding filter ratings and maintaining a regular replacement schedule requires basic HVAC knowledge.
Operating a furnace without a filter risks serious damage to your HVAC system. The filter protects internal components from dust, debris, and particulates that can accumulate and cause mechanical failures. Running an unfiltered system leads to reduced efficiency, increased maintenance costs, and potential system failure.
Keep new furnace filters in their original packaging until installation. The box protects the filter material from damage, moisture, and contamination, ensuring maximum effectiveness when installed. Proper storage maintains the filter's integrity and filtration capabilities.
An overdue furnace filter creates multiple problems: decreased indoor air quality, increased allergen circulation, reduced HVAC efficiency, and higher energy costs. Extended use beyond recommended intervals strains your system, potentially leading to expensive repairs and compromised home air quality.
While operating your furnace without a filter for 24 hours won't typically cause immediate system damage, it's not recommended. This practice allows debris to accumulate in your system's components and ductwork, potentially leading to long-term issues and decreased performance.
