Blog Furnace How often to change furnace filter? Key Takeaways To maintain your HVAC system’s efficiency and air quality, changing the furnace filter regularly is crucial. The frequency depends on factors like filter type, home size, air quality, HVAC usage, and presence of pets or allergies. Fiberglass filters need replacing every 30 days, pleated filters every 90 days, electrostatic filters every three months, and HEPA filters around once a year. Regular filter changes enhance air quality, improve energy efficiency, extend HVAC lifespan, and prevent costly repairs. Follow these steps to change your furnace filter: locate the filter, turn off the system, remove the old filter, inspect and clean the area, insert the new filter, secure it properly, turn the system back on, record the date of replacement, and seek professional help if needed from experts like Comfort Union. 2024-05-15 // 9 min Read Asif Engineer-in-Training & Apprentice To keep your heating and cooling system clean and running efficiently, a furnace filter is an absolute must. It keeps harmful airborne particles like dust and pet dander from becoming stuck in the HVAC system and decreasing the air quality inside your home. This improves efficiency, which in turn lowers energy expenses and helps your system work smoothly.So, keeping the air filter in good condition is crucial and must be taken care of consistently. But how often to change the furnace filter? Read ahead to find out. Frequency of Changing Furnace Filters If you want your HVAC system to last as long as possible, keep the air quality high, and keep your energy bills low, you need to change the furnace filter regularly. Several factors, such as the type of filter, the characteristics of your home, and the external climatic conditions, determine the appropriate frequency for replacing your furnace filter. By keeping these things in mind, you can figure out when it’s best to change the filters in your furnace. Types of Furnace Filters and Their Recommended Change Frequency Various furnace filters are available, each with its own set of pros and cons in terms of filtering capacity and suggested replacement intervals: Fiberglass FiltersTo protect HVAC systems from large contaminants like dust and lint, the most common and affordable filter type is the fiberglass filter. Particularly in houses with heavy HVAC use, it is advised to replace them every 30 days because of their limited filtration capacities. Pleated FiltersBetter filtration and the ability to trap tiny particles like pollen, mold spores, and pet dander are achieved using pleated filters, which are often made of cotton or polyester folds. While air quality and usage in the home do affect how often you should change your pleated filter, the general rule of thumb is every 90 days. Electrostatic FiltersElectrostatic filters are able to attract particles due to their self-charging fibers. Both one-time use and long-term (washable) varieties are available. Every three months, replace the disposable electrostatic filter and clean the permanent filter as needed. HEPA FiltersHigh-efficiency particulate Air or HEPA air filters are considered the best in the industry since they can capture 99.97% of particles smaller than 0.3 microns. People with severe allergies or those who work in healthcare environments often utilize them. Although they still require routine inspection, you might not have to change them quite as frequently (around once a year) as other varieties. Check out Comfort Union for precision installation Efficiency meets expertise! 💪✨ Our team at Co Choosing the perfect tankless water heater isn't j Annual water heater flushing isn’t just a mainte Load More Follow on Instagram We’re the Smart ChoiceWhy Choose Us? For starters, we will show up on time with a fully stocked service van, eager to resolve your heating, cooling, plumbing or electrical problem. Contact Us Factors Affecting Filter Change Frequency The frequency of furnace filter changes is dependent on a number of factors Home SizeFilters can become dirty more quickly in larger homes due to increased air circulation. One possible explanation for why filters last longer in smaller houses is because there is less air circulation and the heating system is used less. Air QualityDue to the higher concentration of air particles, homes in areas with high levels of pollution or pollen may need to change their filters more regularly, impacting air quality. HVAC UsageChanging a dirty furnace filter more frequently is a common practice for systems that are used more often. It is recommended to inspect the filter periodically and, if necessary, change it during seasons when the HVAC system is utilized often. PetsFur and dander shed by pets can quickly turn your filters into dirty furnace filters, so it’s a good idea for homes with pets to think about changing their filters more often. AllergiesIt is essential to keep filters clean in homes where family members have respiratory diseases or allergies. To maintain good indoor air quality and remove airborne dust consistently, you should consider changing them more often. SmokingThe air quality can be greatly reduced when smoking indoors, and the increased presence of airborne particles means that filters need to be changed more frequently. Glen R17:46 07 Sep 24I recently had the pleasure of working with Comfort Union Heating and Plumbing, and I can’t say enough about the exceptional service I received. Led by Asif, the team was incredibly meticulous in their work, ensuring that every detail was attended to.Their attention to detail and commitment to quality work were evident from start to finish. If you’re looking for reliable and skilled service in heating and plumbing, I highly recommend Comfort Union Heating and Plumbing. Thank you, Asif, Muhammad and the team, for a great experience!Chris Ellett13:28 06 Sep 24I had a great experience with comfort union. Even over the long weekend they answered the phone, and were there the next day to replace my hot water tank. Moe called in the morning to give me an ETA and then a text when he was actually on the way. He was thorough, friendly, knowledgeable and would use this family run business againBerta Sipos02:20 05 Sep 24Amazing service Asif, Mo and Daryl. Thank you Comfort Union! On Friday evening our hot water tank stoped working. We e- mailed Comfort Union in 30 minutes they called us back. Very professional and friendly staff. Friday evening we had our quote. Very detailed and clear. On Saturday morning they called to see if we have any questions. The price was very reasonable. We booked the service and that afternoon we had a brand new hot water tank installed. We were very pleased and we highly recommend Comfort Union. These three young man were just amazing! Thank you again.Samiur20:24 04 Sep 24Professional, competitive and immediate service. Installed a new heat pump from them and it was good experience. Highly recommend.Charles Kabano19:12 01 Sep 24Comfort Union just finished up HVAC work for the secondary suite basement for us in Airdrie, and I gotta say, these guys did a fantastic job. They installed a new Carrier furnace, moved our old Trane to a different spot, and hooked us up with a Lennox AC. Everything was smooth, and they really knew what they were doing.I love that they’re a family business—and really care about their work and their customers. The crew was super friendly and easy to talk to, and they made sure to explain everything along the way. The new furnace and AC are working great, and moving the old unit seemed like no big deal for them.Overall, just a great experience. If you need any HVAC work done in Airdrie, these are the people to call. Can’t recommend Comfort Union enough!Kyle21:57 29 Aug 24Vic DePaz01:09 28 Aug 24Comfort Union team was awesome to deal with and loved they are Calgary family run business. I will greatly recommend them. Great work.Kathleen Vinluan01:26 24 Aug 24Quick and Reliable.Louis TSAKALAKIS18:22 15 Aug 24good job on timeMarcelina Hume16:48 29 Jul 24We recently had a heat pump installed by Comfort Union and couldn't be more pleased with their service. From the initial consultation to the completed job, the team was outstanding. They provided personalized recommendations and were mindful of our budget. I highly recommend Comfort Union to anyone seeking efficient and detail-oriented service.Thank you for your exceptional customer service and competitive rates!Michael Stuart23:54 11 Jul 24Thanks for a great job. Good workMd Zillur Rahman00:07 06 Jul 24My friend Muhamad Ayoob khan is very knowledgeable and professional person. He takes every job very seriously. He is capable and knows what he is doing. You can rely on him for your HVAC needs.Batool Rizvi06:24 01 Jul 24Excellent service, very reasonable cost. Always recommended.Shabeeb Rizvi06:23 01 Jul 24I recently had a Gree heat pump and Carrier furnace installation by Comfort Union, and I'm really happy with the results. The Gree heat pump is very quiet and the Carrier furnace works great.I highly recommend Comfort Union for HVAC work in Calgary. Their expertise and dedication are impressive. Good work!jaweda zaidi00:44 01 Jul 24Juan Guerrero14:56 28 Jun 24Great service, highly recommend Comfort Union for HVAC repair and installation services in Calgary!sreekumar cngr19:41 22 Jun 24Sidharth Narula00:08 21 Jun 24"5/5 stars! I'm highly impressed by the exceptional service I received from Comfort Union on a weekend! As a family of plumbers, engineers, and soldiers, they brought a unique combination of skills and discipline to the job, replacing my water heater tank with complete satisfaction and professionalism. Their expertise, efficiency, and courtesy were truly outstanding. I highly recommend Comfort Union for any plumbing needs. Thank you for a job exceptionally well done!" Seasonal Considerations The seasons can play a role in determining when to change the furnace filter, as consumption patterns naturally vary:Winter: Filters get clogged up faster in the winter because furnaces run more often to heat homes. Regular checks should be done, and adjustments should be made as necessary.Summer: In the summer, the same rules that apply in the winter also apply if the air conditioner is turned on often. Clean filters are more important when outdoor pollen levels are high since they affect indoor air quality.Spring and Fall: During the spring and fall, HVAC systems may not be used as often, but pollen and other allergens Advanced Tips for Managing Filter Changes Smart Thermostats Filter Subscription Services Visual Checks Rather than relying on predetermined intervals, many newer smart thermostats can be set to remind you to check or replace your filter depending on the amount of time it has been in use. The closer it is to how the system is actually used, the more effective it can be. Some businesses provide subscription services that will have fresh filters sent to your house at predetermined intervals. In addition to making sure you never run out of the correct size or type of filter, this can serve as a helpful reminder to change it. Although the time may not have come, your filter may appear unclean indicating that it is time to change it. Do what you think is necessary—regardless of the time of day, replace a filter if it appears blocked. Furnace Filter Types and Their Lifespans 1-inch filters: Replace every 1-3 months. 2-inch filters: Replace every 1-3 months. 4-inch filters: Replace every 6-9 months. 5-inch filters: Replace every 9-12 months. Why Should You Keep Changing Your Furnace Filter? Keeping the furnace filter clean is more than just a nice-to-have—it’s a critical habit that affects your home’s air quality, energy efficiency, and HVAC system’s lifespan. You could risk your family’s health and rack up expensive bills if you put off doing this one little thing. Enhanced Air Quality A clean furnace filter is the most important thing you can do to keep the air inside your home healthy. To keep allergens like dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores from recirculating in your home, install a furnace filter.By minimizing the intensity and frequency of allergy symptoms and respiratory problems, a clean filter can greatly improve the quality of life for families dealing with these conditions. Increased Energy Efficiency Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system will have to work harder to move air if the filter is unclean or clogged. In addition to increasing power consumption, this could cause the system's components to wear down prematurely due to excessive stress.To keep your system running efficiently and save money on utility bills, clean the filters regularly. A well-maintained HVAC system efficiently heats and cools your home with less power, which can be a substantial reason in and of itself. Extended HVAC Lifespan It is wise to get the most out of your current HVAC system because upgrading it might be expensive. To keep your HVAC system running smoothly and protect its components, change the filters regularly.Maintaining a clean filter is essential to avoid mechanical wear and strain caused by dirt and particle buildup in the system. Reducing the load on your system will increase its longevity and decrease the likelihood of expensive malfunctions. Steps to Change Furnace Filters Locate Your Filter You can find the furnace filter in the air handler of your HVAC system, which might be in the basement, the attic, or even a specific utility closet. The filter may be located close to the blower unit or in the return air duct in certain systems. Find the precise spot where your filter is located before moving forward. Turn Off the System Prioritize safety! In order to avoid the furnace from turning on while you are changing the filter, make sure to turn it off at the thermostat or main power switch. In addition to keeping you safe, this prevents the system from absorbing air that hasn't been filtered. Remove the Old Filter To reach the filter slot, either open the panel or slide the cover off. Remove the old and dirty filter with care, paying attention to any airflow arrows that point toward the furnace or air handler. Ensure that these arrows point in the same way when you install the new filter. Inspect and Clean Look around the filter slot and its surrounding region before you put the new filter in. Use a vacuum cleaner to get rid of any apparent dust or debris. This keeps the airflow clear and prevents performance-reducing obstructions. Insert the New Filter Before you install the new filter in your system, make sure it fits by checking its size and MERV rating. Position the replacement filter such that the airflow arrows point in the direction of the blower before sliding it into position. The ideal fit for a filter is for it to slide in smoothly, without any obstructions or spaces around the frame. Secure and Double-Check After installing the replacement filter, make sure to firmly close the access panel or reattach the cover. To get the most out of your filter, you must be sure that no air can get past it. Turn On the System Turn on your furnace again by pressing the main switch or the thermostat. It would be helpful to turn the system on for a few minutes to listen for any strange sounds or problems with airflow that could mean the filter isn't installed properly. Record the Date Remember to log the date and time when you change your furnace filter. For HVAC systems to function at their best, regular tracking is necessary for keeping to a regular schedule. Know when to Get Professional Help If you have never changed a filter before or are confused about which one to use, it could be helpful to talk to an expert from a business like Comfort Union. You can trust that our HVAC specialists will provide you with recommendations based on your unique system and requirements, guiding you toward the best equipment and maintenance practices. Share this: In this Article Share this: Related Posts How does humidifier work? Understanding the types of humidifiers and their importance How to clean humidifier filter for your home? Lennox furnace troubleshooting: Common Issues & Steps to fix them Troubleshooting a Pressure Switch: Understanding Issues & Detailed Steps American standard furnace troubleshooting: Understanding issues with your HVAC system LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR CONTRIBUTOR Asif Engineer-in-Training & Apprentice Asif is the driving force behind Comfort Union. Growing up, he learned the ropes of engineering and trades from his dad, sparking his entrepreneurial spirit. With a master's in Software Engineering from the University of Calgary and degrees in both Commerce (Accounting) and Chemical Engineering, Asif is a rare mix… Related Posts How does humidifier work? Understanding the types of humidifiers and their importance Humidifiers are essential tools that combat the discomfort of dry indoor air, particularly during the cold winter months. By adding moisture to the air, humidifiers help maintain optimal humidity levels, improving both health and home environments. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how humidifiers work, the different types available, and how to choose and use them effectively. By Asif in Furnace on May 9, 2024 How to clean humidifier filter for your home? In the dry winter months of Canada, it is extremely important to keep up with humidifier maintenance to ensure it works properly and to keep the air in your home healthy. Preventing the growth of bacteria and mineral buildup, which can impact air quality and appliance efficiency, is as simple as keeping the humidifier filter cleaned regularly. By Asif in Furnace on May 10, 2024 Lennox furnace troubleshooting: Common Issues & Steps to fix them Keeping a furnace in excellent condition isn't always an easy task because of all the mechanical and electrical components. Despite Lennox Furnaces' stellar reputation for dependability and efficiency, problems can arise with any complicated piece of equipment that is used in your home. In this article, we have listed some of the most typical issues with Lennox furnaces, along with detailed but easy instructions for fixing them. By Asif in Furnace on May 17, 2024 Troubleshooting a Pressure Switch: Understanding Issues & Detailed Steps During the colder months, when furnaces are used often, the furnace pressure switch is very important for ensuring the safe operation of your home's heating system. Knowing how to fix and deal with the issues that arise in a pressure switch can help homeowners minimize having to deal with dangerous situations and emergency furnace problems. By Asif in Furnace on May 10, 2024 American standard furnace troubleshooting: Understanding issues with your HVAC system American Standard furnaces are renowned for their reliability and efficiency, making them a staple in many homes. But you could face issues with it from time to time - even with regular maintenance. So how can you troubleshoot those issues and resolve them? Read this article to find out! By Asif in Furnace on May 17, 2024 Table of content In the Article
To keep your heating and cooling system clean and running efficiently, a furnace filter is an absolute must. It keeps harmful airborne particles like dust and pet dander from becoming stuck in the HVAC system and decreasing the air quality inside your home. This improves efficiency, which in turn lowers energy expenses and helps your system work smoothly.So, keeping the air filter in good condition is crucial and must be taken care of consistently. But how often to change the furnace filter? Read ahead to find out. Frequency of Changing Furnace Filters If you want your HVAC system to last as long as possible, keep the air quality high, and keep your energy bills low, you need to change the furnace filter regularly. Several factors, such as the type of filter, the characteristics of your home, and the external climatic conditions, determine the appropriate frequency for replacing your furnace filter. By keeping these things in mind, you can figure out when it’s best to change the filters in your furnace. Types of Furnace Filters and Their Recommended Change Frequency Various furnace filters are available, each with its own set of pros and cons in terms of filtering capacity and suggested replacement intervals: Fiberglass FiltersTo protect HVAC systems from large contaminants like dust and lint, the most common and affordable filter type is the fiberglass filter. Particularly in houses with heavy HVAC use, it is advised to replace them every 30 days because of their limited filtration capacities. Pleated FiltersBetter filtration and the ability to trap tiny particles like pollen, mold spores, and pet dander are achieved using pleated filters, which are often made of cotton or polyester folds. While air quality and usage in the home do affect how often you should change your pleated filter, the general rule of thumb is every 90 days. Electrostatic FiltersElectrostatic filters are able to attract particles due to their self-charging fibers. Both one-time use and long-term (washable) varieties are available. Every three months, replace the disposable electrostatic filter and clean the permanent filter as needed. HEPA FiltersHigh-efficiency particulate Air or HEPA air filters are considered the best in the industry since they can capture 99.97% of particles smaller than 0.3 microns. People with severe allergies or those who work in healthcare environments often utilize them. Although they still require routine inspection, you might not have to change them quite as frequently (around once a year) as other varieties. Check out Comfort Union for precision installation Efficiency meets expertise! 💪✨ Our team at Co Choosing the perfect tankless water heater isn't j Annual water heater flushing isn’t just a mainte Load More Follow on Instagram We’re the Smart ChoiceWhy Choose Us? For starters, we will show up on time with a fully stocked service van, eager to resolve your heating, cooling, plumbing or electrical problem. Contact Us Factors Affecting Filter Change Frequency The frequency of furnace filter changes is dependent on a number of factors Home SizeFilters can become dirty more quickly in larger homes due to increased air circulation. One possible explanation for why filters last longer in smaller houses is because there is less air circulation and the heating system is used less. Air QualityDue to the higher concentration of air particles, homes in areas with high levels of pollution or pollen may need to change their filters more regularly, impacting air quality. HVAC UsageChanging a dirty furnace filter more frequently is a common practice for systems that are used more often. It is recommended to inspect the filter periodically and, if necessary, change it during seasons when the HVAC system is utilized often. PetsFur and dander shed by pets can quickly turn your filters into dirty furnace filters, so it’s a good idea for homes with pets to think about changing their filters more often. AllergiesIt is essential to keep filters clean in homes where family members have respiratory diseases or allergies. To maintain good indoor air quality and remove airborne dust consistently, you should consider changing them more often. SmokingThe air quality can be greatly reduced when smoking indoors, and the increased presence of airborne particles means that filters need to be changed more frequently. Glen R17:46 07 Sep 24I recently had the pleasure of working with Comfort Union Heating and Plumbing, and I can’t say enough about the exceptional service I received. Led by Asif, the team was incredibly meticulous in their work, ensuring that every detail was attended to.Their attention to detail and commitment to quality work were evident from start to finish. If you’re looking for reliable and skilled service in heating and plumbing, I highly recommend Comfort Union Heating and Plumbing. Thank you, Asif, Muhammad and the team, for a great experience!Chris Ellett13:28 06 Sep 24I had a great experience with comfort union. Even over the long weekend they answered the phone, and were there the next day to replace my hot water tank. Moe called in the morning to give me an ETA and then a text when he was actually on the way. He was thorough, friendly, knowledgeable and would use this family run business againBerta Sipos02:20 05 Sep 24Amazing service Asif, Mo and Daryl. Thank you Comfort Union! On Friday evening our hot water tank stoped working. We e- mailed Comfort Union in 30 minutes they called us back. Very professional and friendly staff. Friday evening we had our quote. Very detailed and clear. On Saturday morning they called to see if we have any questions. The price was very reasonable. We booked the service and that afternoon we had a brand new hot water tank installed. We were very pleased and we highly recommend Comfort Union. These three young man were just amazing! Thank you again.Samiur20:24 04 Sep 24Professional, competitive and immediate service. Installed a new heat pump from them and it was good experience. Highly recommend.Charles Kabano19:12 01 Sep 24Comfort Union just finished up HVAC work for the secondary suite basement for us in Airdrie, and I gotta say, these guys did a fantastic job. They installed a new Carrier furnace, moved our old Trane to a different spot, and hooked us up with a Lennox AC. Everything was smooth, and they really knew what they were doing.I love that they’re a family business—and really care about their work and their customers. The crew was super friendly and easy to talk to, and they made sure to explain everything along the way. The new furnace and AC are working great, and moving the old unit seemed like no big deal for them.Overall, just a great experience. If you need any HVAC work done in Airdrie, these are the people to call. Can’t recommend Comfort Union enough!Kyle21:57 29 Aug 24Vic DePaz01:09 28 Aug 24Comfort Union team was awesome to deal with and loved they are Calgary family run business. I will greatly recommend them. Great work.Kathleen Vinluan01:26 24 Aug 24Quick and Reliable.Louis TSAKALAKIS18:22 15 Aug 24good job on timeMarcelina Hume16:48 29 Jul 24We recently had a heat pump installed by Comfort Union and couldn't be more pleased with their service. From the initial consultation to the completed job, the team was outstanding. They provided personalized recommendations and were mindful of our budget. I highly recommend Comfort Union to anyone seeking efficient and detail-oriented service.Thank you for your exceptional customer service and competitive rates!Michael Stuart23:54 11 Jul 24Thanks for a great job. Good workMd Zillur Rahman00:07 06 Jul 24My friend Muhamad Ayoob khan is very knowledgeable and professional person. He takes every job very seriously. He is capable and knows what he is doing. You can rely on him for your HVAC needs.Batool Rizvi06:24 01 Jul 24Excellent service, very reasonable cost. Always recommended.Shabeeb Rizvi06:23 01 Jul 24I recently had a Gree heat pump and Carrier furnace installation by Comfort Union, and I'm really happy with the results. The Gree heat pump is very quiet and the Carrier furnace works great.I highly recommend Comfort Union for HVAC work in Calgary. Their expertise and dedication are impressive. Good work!jaweda zaidi00:44 01 Jul 24Juan Guerrero14:56 28 Jun 24Great service, highly recommend Comfort Union for HVAC repair and installation services in Calgary!sreekumar cngr19:41 22 Jun 24Sidharth Narula00:08 21 Jun 24"5/5 stars! I'm highly impressed by the exceptional service I received from Comfort Union on a weekend! As a family of plumbers, engineers, and soldiers, they brought a unique combination of skills and discipline to the job, replacing my water heater tank with complete satisfaction and professionalism. Their expertise, efficiency, and courtesy were truly outstanding. I highly recommend Comfort Union for any plumbing needs. Thank you for a job exceptionally well done!" Seasonal Considerations The seasons can play a role in determining when to change the furnace filter, as consumption patterns naturally vary:Winter: Filters get clogged up faster in the winter because furnaces run more often to heat homes. Regular checks should be done, and adjustments should be made as necessary.Summer: In the summer, the same rules that apply in the winter also apply if the air conditioner is turned on often. Clean filters are more important when outdoor pollen levels are high since they affect indoor air quality.Spring and Fall: During the spring and fall, HVAC systems may not be used as often, but pollen and other allergens Advanced Tips for Managing Filter Changes Smart Thermostats Filter Subscription Services Visual Checks Rather than relying on predetermined intervals, many newer smart thermostats can be set to remind you to check or replace your filter depending on the amount of time it has been in use. The closer it is to how the system is actually used, the more effective it can be. Some businesses provide subscription services that will have fresh filters sent to your house at predetermined intervals. In addition to making sure you never run out of the correct size or type of filter, this can serve as a helpful reminder to change it. Although the time may not have come, your filter may appear unclean indicating that it is time to change it. Do what you think is necessary—regardless of the time of day, replace a filter if it appears blocked. Furnace Filter Types and Their Lifespans 1-inch filters: Replace every 1-3 months. 2-inch filters: Replace every 1-3 months. 4-inch filters: Replace every 6-9 months. 5-inch filters: Replace every 9-12 months. Why Should You Keep Changing Your Furnace Filter? Keeping the furnace filter clean is more than just a nice-to-have—it’s a critical habit that affects your home’s air quality, energy efficiency, and HVAC system’s lifespan. You could risk your family’s health and rack up expensive bills if you put off doing this one little thing. Enhanced Air Quality A clean furnace filter is the most important thing you can do to keep the air inside your home healthy. To keep allergens like dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores from recirculating in your home, install a furnace filter.By minimizing the intensity and frequency of allergy symptoms and respiratory problems, a clean filter can greatly improve the quality of life for families dealing with these conditions. Increased Energy Efficiency Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system will have to work harder to move air if the filter is unclean or clogged. In addition to increasing power consumption, this could cause the system's components to wear down prematurely due to excessive stress.To keep your system running efficiently and save money on utility bills, clean the filters regularly. A well-maintained HVAC system efficiently heats and cools your home with less power, which can be a substantial reason in and of itself. Extended HVAC Lifespan It is wise to get the most out of your current HVAC system because upgrading it might be expensive. To keep your HVAC system running smoothly and protect its components, change the filters regularly.Maintaining a clean filter is essential to avoid mechanical wear and strain caused by dirt and particle buildup in the system. Reducing the load on your system will increase its longevity and decrease the likelihood of expensive malfunctions. Steps to Change Furnace Filters Locate Your Filter You can find the furnace filter in the air handler of your HVAC system, which might be in the basement, the attic, or even a specific utility closet. The filter may be located close to the blower unit or in the return air duct in certain systems. Find the precise spot where your filter is located before moving forward. Turn Off the System Prioritize safety! In order to avoid the furnace from turning on while you are changing the filter, make sure to turn it off at the thermostat or main power switch. In addition to keeping you safe, this prevents the system from absorbing air that hasn't been filtered. Remove the Old Filter To reach the filter slot, either open the panel or slide the cover off. Remove the old and dirty filter with care, paying attention to any airflow arrows that point toward the furnace or air handler. Ensure that these arrows point in the same way when you install the new filter. Inspect and Clean Look around the filter slot and its surrounding region before you put the new filter in. Use a vacuum cleaner to get rid of any apparent dust or debris. This keeps the airflow clear and prevents performance-reducing obstructions. Insert the New Filter Before you install the new filter in your system, make sure it fits by checking its size and MERV rating. Position the replacement filter such that the airflow arrows point in the direction of the blower before sliding it into position. The ideal fit for a filter is for it to slide in smoothly, without any obstructions or spaces around the frame. Secure and Double-Check After installing the replacement filter, make sure to firmly close the access panel or reattach the cover. To get the most out of your filter, you must be sure that no air can get past it. Turn On the System Turn on your furnace again by pressing the main switch or the thermostat. It would be helpful to turn the system on for a few minutes to listen for any strange sounds or problems with airflow that could mean the filter isn't installed properly. Record the Date Remember to log the date and time when you change your furnace filter. For HVAC systems to function at their best, regular tracking is necessary for keeping to a regular schedule. Know when to Get Professional Help If you have never changed a filter before or are confused about which one to use, it could be helpful to talk to an expert from a business like Comfort Union. You can trust that our HVAC specialists will provide you with recommendations based on your unique system and requirements, guiding you toward the best equipment and maintenance practices. Share this:
