Your furnace filter is one of the most important parts of your HVAC system. Not only does it trap dirt and other debris that could otherwise damage your furnace, but it also helps to prevent harmful substances from entering your home. However, even the most diligent of filters will need to be changed on a regular basis to ensure optimal performance. Fortunately, there are a few signs to look for that will let you know when it’s time to change your filter again. If you notice any of these indicators, it’s time to replace your filter with a new one. If you don’t know when to change your filter, however, don’t worry. We’ve got everything you need to know about cleaning, inspecting and replacing your filter in one article!

Why should I change my filter?

Filters trap dirt, dust, and other contaminants that may otherwise be released into the air through your HVAC system. This is especially important if you have pets or young children in the home. If you have a pet, they can shed hair and other debris that can get trapped in your HVAC system. This can lead to buildup and clogs that can damage your HVAC system. If you have young children, you may want to consider investing in a high-efficiency filter. These filters trap more contaminants than standard filters, which can help to reduce the risk of contracting respiratory illnesses such as asthma.If you have allergies or sensitive skin, you may also want to consider investing in an air filter. These filters trap contaminants such as dust, pollen, and pet dander that can trigger allergic reactions. However, it’s important to keep in mind that these filters may not be able to trap all of these substances. Therefore, it’s best to supplement with an air purifier.

How often should I change my filter?

You should change your filter every 30 to 60 days, depending on the type of filter you have in your HVAC system. The more often you change your filter, the more effectively it can trap contaminants. If you have a central air system, it’s best to change your filter every 30 days. If you have a ductless system, however, you can change your filter every 60 days.Remember to change the filter on the outdoor unit as well as the indoor unit. Outdoor filters are more prone to becoming dirty, so it’s important to change them more frequently.

Check your filter before and after every heating or cooling cycle

This may sound silly, but it’s important to check your filter before and after every heating or cooling cycle. If you notice that the filter is dirty, it’s best to change it as soon as possible. This will help to ensure that your HVAC system is running at its best.If you don’t know when to change your filter, you can also use these signs as a guide. If you notice that your HVAC system is running longer than usual, it may be time to change your filter. If you notice that your bills are higher than normal, this may also be an indication that it’s time to change your filter. If you’re noticing that your home feels stuffy or smells musty, it may be time to change your filter.

Check your filter before and after every season

If you live in an area that experiences extreme weather conditions, it may be a good idea to change your filter more frequently. You may want to change your filter every season if you live in an area that experiences a lot of rain or snowfall. This will help to protect your HVAC system from becoming clogged with dirt and debris.If you live in an area that experiences a lot of dust or pollen, you may want to consider investing in an air filter. These filters can trap a lot more contaminants than a standard filter, which can help to reduce the risk of contracting allergies.

Conclusion

There are a few signs that you can check to determine if it’s time to change your filter. If you notice that your HVAC system runs longer than usual or that your bills are higher than usual, it may be time to change your filter. You may also want to change your filter if you notice that your home is stuffy or smells musty. A dirty filter can cause your HVAC system to run longer and use more energy. This can lead to higher bills and a shorter lifespan for your HVAC system.If you want to protect your HVAC system and your home from contaminants, it’s important to change your filter on a regular basis. You can also use a UV light to sanitize your filter and make it last longer.

Frequently Asked Question

The furnace filter needs to be replaced depending on your location. For colder zones, you might want to change it every 30 – 60 days because furnaces usually go on for many months and do not take a break. For warmer areas, you may only replace it twice during the winter or after 90 days. It also varies on the thickness of the furnace filters. The thinner your filter, the more frequent you get to replace it.
If you fail to change your furnace filter, this might affect the performance of your furnace. It will pressure your equipment to work harder because of a decrease in airflow. Worse, it might damage your equipment forcing you to have it repaired or replaced. The furnace will overheat once you turn it on without a new air filter.
Technically without a furnace filter, your furnace will still operate. However, you will risk your family’s health and your equipment’s performance as well. Furnace filters make sure that contaminants, dust, and microbes do not get inside your house so you will not breathe dirty air.
A dirty furnace filter looks darker than the first time you bought it. The air also smells funny. You get lower airflow and your equipment works hard causing your electric bills to soar. Soon you will get sick, and develop headaches and allergies.
The fibers can’t do their job when it is placed backward. The furnace will work harder to keep up with its desired output. This will increase your energy cost and damage your equipment. Smaller particles will accumulate causing build-up.