How Often Should You Change Your Furnace Air Filters?

The air filters in your furnace play a vital role in filtering the air getting inside your home. It traps dust, debris, and other elements that reduce air quality. Since the air filters trap all …

The air filters in your furnace play a vital role in filtering the air getting inside your home. It traps dust, debris, and other elements that reduce air quality. Since the air filters trap all the dust, it is crucial to change them frequently to improve the efficiency and quality of air in your home. However, when do you know it is time to change the air filters? The following information will help you.

How Often Should You Change Your Filters?

How often you change the filters depends on various things, like the efficiency of the HVAC, the manufacturer’s recommendations, and other characteristics. However, if your filter has a low MERV rating, you may need to change it often. That is why it is recommendable to get a high-efficient filter. You can get discount filters to ensure your HVAC has what it needs to perform well. You can also check the packaging to know how often the manufacturer recommends changing the filter.

It is also crucial to change the furnace filter based on the frequency of use of the HVAC. There are seasons, winter and summer when the system is used more often. With more use, more air that requires filtering is passing through. Therefore, ensure you check and change the filters during peak seasons and if you notice dirt buildup. If smokers or pets are in the house, your furnace needs to filter the air more. That means the filters will likely be clogged more due to the contaminants.

Signs the Filters Need Changing

There are things you can watch out for to know when your filter needs replacement. Here are several.

  • There is more dust than usual
  • The filters are grey, and a lot of dirt accumulating
  • Your HVCA has become inefficient
  • It has been a long time since you changed the filters

Why Should You Change the Furnace Filters?

The furnace does a great job of improving the comfort and quality of air in your home. Therefore, here are the benefits to enjoy.

  • Improved HVAC Efficiency

The filter is a vital part of the furnace. It is dirty due to clogged dirt and contaminants, and its ability to filter the air passing through the unit reduces. The entire system strains to clean the air, and its efficiency decreases. Cleaning the furnace filters allows proper cleaning of air passing through. It keeps the unit healthy, thus improving its efficiency.

  • Energy Efficiency

As mentioned, dirty filters put stress on the HVAC. The system works harder to clean the air, requiring more energy. However, with clean filters, less energy is used. Making your home more energy efficient.

  • More Comfort

The furnace cannot deliver good air quality when the air filters are clogged. Therefore, you may not get the best cool or warm you need in the house. Furthermore, straining of the unit may cause a malfunction. This causes discomfort.

  • Better Air Quality

The work of the filter is to remove contaminants in the air before it circulates in the house. If it cannot capture the pollutants, you are left with dirt air full of allergens and other health threats. That is why changing the filters is prudent.

Key Takeaways

Changing your furnace filter often is paramount to maintaining good indoor air quality. However, always ensure you buy high-quality filters from reputable dealers to ensure efficiency and prolonged use.