The Benefits of Replacing Your Furnace Filter for Cleaner Air
Having a healthy home environment is essential for your wellbeing. Unfortunately, indoor air can be polluted by dust, dirt, pollen, pet dander, smoke, and other particles. To ensure that these particles don't circulate throughout your home and affect your health, it's important to change the filter in your furnace regularly.
What Is a Furnace Filter?
A furnace filter is an important part of the heating system in your home. It works to capture airborne particles that pass through the system and prevent them from being circulated back into the air. Depending on the type of filter you have installed, it may also help reduce odors and improve efficiency.
Why You Should Replace Your Furnace Filter Regularly
The main reason to replace your furnace filter regularly is to improve indoor air quality. As dust and other particles accumulate on the filter over time, they are unable to pass through the system again and will remain trapped on the filter instead. This prevents them from entering your home and potentially causing respiratory problems or other health issues.
In addition to improving air quality, changing out your furnace filter regularly can also help extend its lifespan. A clogged or dirty filter puts extra strain on the system, which can lead to costly repairs down the line.
How Often Should You Change Your Furnace Filter?
The frequency with which you should replace your furnace filter depends on several factors, such as what type of filter you have installed, as well as how much dust accumulates in your home. Generally speaking, disposable filters should be changed every three months, while washable filters should be replaced every six months.
If you have pets or live in an area with high levels of dust or pollen, then you may need to change out your filters more often than usual. It's also a good idea to check them every month or two, just in case they become clogged or damaged.
Types of Furnace Filters
There are several types of furnace filters available today, including fiberglass filters, pleated paper filters, washable electrostatic filters, and high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters.
- Fiberglass Filters: Fiberglass filters are one of the most basic types available, but they are inexpensive and easy to install, although not very effective at trapping small particles.
- Pleated Paper Filters: Pleated paper filters offer more filtration power than fiberglass ones, but come at a higher cost. They need replacing more often too.
- Washable Electrostatic Filters: Washable electrostatic filters use metal mesh that attracts particles like a magnet, making them more effective than fiberglass or pleated paper options. However, they require regular cleaning.
- High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) Filters: HEPA filters are the most effective type of furnace filter and are capable of trapping even the smallest particles. They are also more expensive than other types and need to be replaced more often.