Blog Furnace How to change furnace filter: Quick Step-by-step guide Key Takeaways Changing your furnace filter is a crucial step in maintaining your HVAC system’s efficiency and air quality. Start by turning off the furnace and gathering necessary tools. Locate the filter slot, inspect the old filter, and choose a replacement based on size and rating. Install the new filter, ensuring proper alignment and securing it in place. Finally, turn the furnace back on and schedule a reminder for future replacements. Consider Comfort Union for professional HVAC maintenance to keep your system running smoothly year-round. 2024-05-15 // 7 min Read Asif Engineer-in-Training & Apprentice If you want your heating and cooling system to work efficiently, keep the air inside clean, and last as long as possible, you need to change the filter on your furnace often. In this article, we will give you a quick and easy guide on changing your furnace filter effectively. But first, When should you Change Your Furnace Filters? Standard RecommendationDuring the winter, when your heating system is used frequently, it is recommended to inspect the air filter once a month. It is sufficient to change the filter of your furnace and air conditioner every three months for typical use if there are no other issues in it. Home Environment and UsageYou may need to change your filter more frequently—maybe even monthly—if your home is in a setting with dogs, smokers, or a lot of dust. Pollen, dust, and pet dander are just a few examples of the outside pollutants that can quickly block filters. Allergy ConsiderationsKeeping the air in homes where people suffer from allergies cleaner can help relieve their symptoms. For these situations, changing the filter every 30 to 45 days can assist in reducing the amount of airborne allergens. Filter Type and QualityHow frequently you need to change your filter is also affected by the type of filter you use. The more effectively pleated or HEPA filters trap particles, the less often you should change a basic fiberglass filter. System Efficiency and Energy CostsYour HVAC system will work less and save money on energy costs if the filter is clean and air can flow freely through it. Your energy expenses can go up and your system could break down or malfunction if you have a dirty filter. Visual InspectionAlong with these rules of thumb, you should visually check your filter regularly. When dirt and dust accumulate on the filter or if it looks gray and clogged, it’s time to replace it. To check if the filter needs replacing, simply hold it up to the light; if the light doesn’t pass through properly, it’s time to buy a new one. A number of elements in the home affect how often you should change the furnace filter, but there are general guidelines that our professionals recommend:- 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 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!" Steps to Change Your Furnace Filter Step 1: Preparation and Safety Duration: 5 minutesFirst and foremost, you must ensure your safety and get yourself ready:Turn Off the Furnace: Be sure to turn off your HVAC system. Most thermostats have an "off" setting or a main switch on the furnace that you can use for this purpose. So, the system won't activate when the filter is changed, which means dust won't be circulated and loose objects won't be drawn in.Gather Necessary Tools: As a general rule, you won't need any special equipment to access the furnace panel, but a screwdriver could be useful in an emergency. Keep a flashlight on available as well in case the area where your furnace is situated is not well-lit.Prepare the Area: Make sure you have a clear area around the furnace so you can work safely. Doing so will facilitate your access to the furnace and avoid obstacles. Step 2: Locate and Evaluate the Current Filter Duration: 10 minutesIt is important to identify and inspect your existing filter:Find the Filter Slot: The furnace's blower fan compartment, sometimes concealed behind a metal door or panel, is where you can find the filter slot. Particularly in HVAC systems, it may be positioned within an aperture in the return air ductwork in certain setups.Inspect the Filter: Carefully slide out the filter to inspect it. The filter is held in something as simple as a wired frame in some devices, while in others you may find a more elaborate door or lock.Examine for Wear and Tear: See if the old filter is worn out by bringing it into the light. When light is obstructed and doesn't pass through, it means that the filter is full of dust, loose debris, and other airborne particulates. In order to know when to repair it, look for signs of damage or excessive dirt buildup. Step 3: Selecting the Right Replacement Filter Duration: 15 minutesTo keep the air clean and the system running efficiently, choosing the right filter is crucial:Understand Filter Size and Ratings: Verify the measurements and MERV rating on the frame of the previous filter. Examples of common dimensions include 16 x 25 x 1 inches. The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) is the metric used to rank filters. Ratings between 7 to 13 are ideal for the majority of households, striking a good balance between system performance and air quality. A higher MERV value implies that the filter can trap dust and smaller particles easily, whereas a lower number suggests that it cannot.Choose the Right Type of Filter:Fiberglass Filters: The most cost-effective option for capturing larger particles such as dust and lint is a fiberglass filter.Pleated Filters: More costly, but more effective in capturing fine particles like pollen and pet dander are pleated filters.HEPA Filters: Best for homes with allergy sufferers: these expensive filters perform well and can trap extremely small particles.Purchase a New Filter: Think about your needs (allergies, pets, smoking in the house, etc.) and choose the type of disposable filters that work well with your HVAC system. Step 4: Installing the New Filter Duration: 10 minutesThe efficiency of the filter depends on its installation:Check the Airflow Direction: The new filter should have an arrow on the side showing you which way the air flows. The direction of the blower motor, not the return duct, should be indicated by this arrow.Insert the New Filter: Carefully slide the filter into position, making sure there are no spaces around its area. The efficiency of the filter decreases and dirt may be able to enter the HVAC system if it is not properly aligned.Secure the Filter: If your HVAC unit has a furnace cover or panel, make sure it's placed securely so air can't escape around the filter. Step 5: System Check and Maintenance Reminder Duration: 5 minutesIt is critical to run a system check when the new filter is installed to make sure it can filter air efficienctly:Turn the Furnace Back On: Press the main switch or the thermostat to restart the furnace.Check System Operation: Make sure the system boots up properly and listen for any strange noises to confirm it's running smoothly. A successful filter replacement is indicated by a smooth startup.Set a Reminder: Write down the date of the filter change and schedule a reminder for when you should check again. Most people do this once every one to three months, but those with pets, severe allergies, or a lot of dust may need to do it more frequently. Why choose Comfort Union for Maintaining Your HVAC System Changing a furnace filter monthly or on a routine basis is an integral component of HVAC maintenance. This includes monitoring the heat exchanger, heating coil, and overall system health through annual inspections performed by professionals such as those at Comfort Union. Preventing unexpected malfunctions and maximizing your system’s efficiency are two key goals of regular maintenance.By providing individualized maintenance plans, our professionals make it their first priority to keep your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems running smoothly and reliably. If you want your HVAC system to improve indoor air quality and cut energy expenses, our team of seasoned experts has what it takes to make sure it’s running at peak efficiency.Choose Comfort Union for dedicated support and quality service that keeps your environment comfortable and your systems running smoothly all year round.Contact us today for more details! Share this: In this Article Share this: Related Posts A detailed guide on Tempstar furnace troubleshooting DIY Furnace Maintenance: Top Tasks & How to Do Them Well What to do when your thermostat is on but the furnace doesn’t run? A complete Guide on Furnace Rebates in Alberta Comparing Heat pump vs Furnace: Alberta, Canada 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 A detailed guide on Tempstar furnace troubleshooting Tempstar furnaces are widely known for their highly efficient and reliable HVAC systems. With their Energy Star Certification and strong warranty, many people go for their furnaces. However, if you're facing issues with your Tempstar furnace, it may be time for a repair or maintenance call. By Asif in Furnace on May 17, 2024 DIY Furnace Maintenance: Top Tasks & How to Do Them Well Getting your furnace ready for the cold is essential as the heating season draws near. Whether you have an electric or gas furnace, regular maintenance will help you avoid expensive repairs and keep your house warm and safe. In this article, we will guide you through the fundamentals of DIY furnace maintenance along with basic hand tools and knowledge that our experts have carefully curated. By Asif in Furnace on May 15, 2024 What to do when your thermostat is on but the furnace doesn’t run? When your thermostat says heat on but furnace not running, it's more than a mere inconvenience, especially during the colder months. Such a situation not only leaves you shivering and cold, but it also makes you puzzled and kind of frustrated. By Asif in Furnace, Heating on April 5, 2024 A complete Guide on Furnace Rebates in Alberta As the Canadian winter gets colder, more and more Alberta households are thinking about getting new, more energy-efficient heating systems. If you are aware of the furnace rebates that are available, you can save a lot of money and help the environment with it as well. In this piece, we'll take a look at some of Alberta's most promising energy-saving initiatives, such as furnace rebates and environmentally friendly home improvements, that can cut down on energy bills and pollution. By Asif in Furnace on May 15, 2024 Comparing Heat pump vs Furnace: Alberta, Canada Making an educated decision in the heat pump vs. furnace debate —especially in Alberta—requires knowledge of the subtle differences between the two heating technologies. This article explains the advantages and disadvantages of both systems so Albertans can choose the one that best matches their heating requirements. By Asif in Furnace on May 19, 2024 Table of content In the Article
If you want your heating and cooling system to work efficiently, keep the air inside clean, and last as long as possible, you need to change the filter on your furnace often. In this article, we will give you a quick and easy guide on changing your furnace filter effectively. But first, When should you Change Your Furnace Filters? Standard RecommendationDuring the winter, when your heating system is used frequently, it is recommended to inspect the air filter once a month. It is sufficient to change the filter of your furnace and air conditioner every three months for typical use if there are no other issues in it. Home Environment and UsageYou may need to change your filter more frequently—maybe even monthly—if your home is in a setting with dogs, smokers, or a lot of dust. Pollen, dust, and pet dander are just a few examples of the outside pollutants that can quickly block filters. Allergy ConsiderationsKeeping the air in homes where people suffer from allergies cleaner can help relieve their symptoms. For these situations, changing the filter every 30 to 45 days can assist in reducing the amount of airborne allergens. Filter Type and QualityHow frequently you need to change your filter is also affected by the type of filter you use. The more effectively pleated or HEPA filters trap particles, the less often you should change a basic fiberglass filter. System Efficiency and Energy CostsYour HVAC system will work less and save money on energy costs if the filter is clean and air can flow freely through it. Your energy expenses can go up and your system could break down or malfunction if you have a dirty filter. Visual InspectionAlong with these rules of thumb, you should visually check your filter regularly. When dirt and dust accumulate on the filter or if it looks gray and clogged, it’s time to replace it. To check if the filter needs replacing, simply hold it up to the light; if the light doesn’t pass through properly, it’s time to buy a new one. A number of elements in the home affect how often you should change the furnace filter, but there are general guidelines that our professionals recommend:- 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 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!" Steps to Change Your Furnace Filter Step 1: Preparation and Safety Duration: 5 minutesFirst and foremost, you must ensure your safety and get yourself ready:Turn Off the Furnace: Be sure to turn off your HVAC system. Most thermostats have an "off" setting or a main switch on the furnace that you can use for this purpose. So, the system won't activate when the filter is changed, which means dust won't be circulated and loose objects won't be drawn in.Gather Necessary Tools: As a general rule, you won't need any special equipment to access the furnace panel, but a screwdriver could be useful in an emergency. Keep a flashlight on available as well in case the area where your furnace is situated is not well-lit.Prepare the Area: Make sure you have a clear area around the furnace so you can work safely. Doing so will facilitate your access to the furnace and avoid obstacles. Step 2: Locate and Evaluate the Current Filter Duration: 10 minutesIt is important to identify and inspect your existing filter:Find the Filter Slot: The furnace's blower fan compartment, sometimes concealed behind a metal door or panel, is where you can find the filter slot. Particularly in HVAC systems, it may be positioned within an aperture in the return air ductwork in certain setups.Inspect the Filter: Carefully slide out the filter to inspect it. The filter is held in something as simple as a wired frame in some devices, while in others you may find a more elaborate door or lock.Examine for Wear and Tear: See if the old filter is worn out by bringing it into the light. When light is obstructed and doesn't pass through, it means that the filter is full of dust, loose debris, and other airborne particulates. In order to know when to repair it, look for signs of damage or excessive dirt buildup. Step 3: Selecting the Right Replacement Filter Duration: 15 minutesTo keep the air clean and the system running efficiently, choosing the right filter is crucial:Understand Filter Size and Ratings: Verify the measurements and MERV rating on the frame of the previous filter. Examples of common dimensions include 16 x 25 x 1 inches. The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) is the metric used to rank filters. Ratings between 7 to 13 are ideal for the majority of households, striking a good balance between system performance and air quality. A higher MERV value implies that the filter can trap dust and smaller particles easily, whereas a lower number suggests that it cannot.Choose the Right Type of Filter:Fiberglass Filters: The most cost-effective option for capturing larger particles such as dust and lint is a fiberglass filter.Pleated Filters: More costly, but more effective in capturing fine particles like pollen and pet dander are pleated filters.HEPA Filters: Best for homes with allergy sufferers: these expensive filters perform well and can trap extremely small particles.Purchase a New Filter: Think about your needs (allergies, pets, smoking in the house, etc.) and choose the type of disposable filters that work well with your HVAC system. Step 4: Installing the New Filter Duration: 10 minutesThe efficiency of the filter depends on its installation:Check the Airflow Direction: The new filter should have an arrow on the side showing you which way the air flows. The direction of the blower motor, not the return duct, should be indicated by this arrow.Insert the New Filter: Carefully slide the filter into position, making sure there are no spaces around its area. The efficiency of the filter decreases and dirt may be able to enter the HVAC system if it is not properly aligned.Secure the Filter: If your HVAC unit has a furnace cover or panel, make sure it's placed securely so air can't escape around the filter. Step 5: System Check and Maintenance Reminder Duration: 5 minutesIt is critical to run a system check when the new filter is installed to make sure it can filter air efficienctly:Turn the Furnace Back On: Press the main switch or the thermostat to restart the furnace.Check System Operation: Make sure the system boots up properly and listen for any strange noises to confirm it's running smoothly. A successful filter replacement is indicated by a smooth startup.Set a Reminder: Write down the date of the filter change and schedule a reminder for when you should check again. Most people do this once every one to three months, but those with pets, severe allergies, or a lot of dust may need to do it more frequently. Why choose Comfort Union for Maintaining Your HVAC System Changing a furnace filter monthly or on a routine basis is an integral component of HVAC maintenance. This includes monitoring the heat exchanger, heating coil, and overall system health through annual inspections performed by professionals such as those at Comfort Union. Preventing unexpected malfunctions and maximizing your system’s efficiency are two key goals of regular maintenance.By providing individualized maintenance plans, our professionals make it their first priority to keep your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems running smoothly and reliably. If you want your HVAC system to improve indoor air quality and cut energy expenses, our team of seasoned experts has what it takes to make sure it’s running at peak efficiency.Choose Comfort Union for dedicated support and quality service that keeps your environment comfortable and your systems running smoothly all year round.Contact us today for more details! Share this:
