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Furnaces | 6 Min.

How Often Should You Change Your Furnace Filters?

Your furnace is a critical component of your home’s HVAC system, providing heat during colder months. To ensure it runs efficiently, it’s essential to take care of its filters. Furnace filters play a crucial role in maintaining the proper functioning of your furnace and keeping your home comfortable.

How Often Should You Change Your Furnace Filters?

Experts recommend changing your furnace filter every  1-3 months, depending on the type of filter and the level of use. Neglecting to change your filters regularly can lead to decreased HVAC efficiency, increased energy bills, and even damage to your furnace.

Why is changing furnace filters important for the health of the furnace?

A furnace filter is designed to remove impurities from the air that is circulated through your HVAC system. Over time, these impurities can accumulate on the filter, clogging it and reducing the airflow to your furnace. This can lead to several problems:

Factors that affect the filter change frequency

Filter type: The frequency of filter changes depends on the type of filter you use. For instance, disposable fiberglass filters need to be replaced every 1-3 months, while a washable metal filter can last for several years.

Signs It’s time to change your furnace filter

Elevated levels of Dust and Allergens in the House: The primary purpose of a furnace filter is to trap dust, dirt, and allergens. If you observe an increase in the quantity of dust or allergens in your home, it may signify that your filter is full and needs to be swapped.

It’s crucial to be mindful of these signs and replace your furnace filter as required to guarantee that your furnace operates smoothly and efficiently. Regular filter changes can also improve the air quality in your home and protect your health by trapping dust, dirt, and allergens.

How to change your furnace Filter

To change your furnace filter, follow these steps:

Safety considerations

When changing your furnace filter, consider the following safety precautions:

Conclusion

It’s essential to take care of your furnace filter for the well-being of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system and the air quality in your home. By frequently changing the filter, you can guarantee that your furnace runs smoothly and efficiently.

The necessary frequency for filter changes will depend on various factors. Households with pets or strong allergies should change their filters every 1-3 months, while most households can change them every 6 months. Homes with low HVAC usage and no air quality issues only require a yearly filter change.
Swapping out your furnace filter on a regular basis is a straightforward way to maintain the health of your HVAC system and enhance indoor air quality. Be sure to replace your filter consistently to enjoy optimal HVAC performance and cleaner air in your home.