Replacing Your Furnace Filter

Replacing your filter is something you can do completely on your own or with the help/guidance of a certified technician. When you have a new unit installed, or serviced for regular maintenance, don’t be afraid to ask your technician to show you how it’s done. We are happy to go over ensuring you have the proper size filter installed correctly in your unit! When shopping for filters, look at the MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) number, which ranges from 1 to 20. The higher the number, the better the filtration is.

Regularly replacing your furnace’s air filter is a simple, yet crucial part of ensuring that you are allowing your unit to perform at its peak capabilities, keeping your energy costs low and your air quality high! Energy Star suggests changing your air filter every month if it is a 1” filter, especially during the winter and summer months, when your HVAC unit gets the most use. If a 1” filter has a higher MERV rating, it should be monitored even more closely, as the higher the MERV rating, the more restrictive it will be (it’s working harder and can plug up faster). The wider your filter is, the longer it can go before replacement is needed. At the bare minimum, don’t let three months go by without swapping your dirty one out for a new one. There are even programs available to purchase filters and have them sent directly to you so you don’t have to remember when it’s time to change them out. A good rule of thumb: When you get your energy bill, check or change your air filter!

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But WHY? Why so often? Here are a few reasons:

• Do you keep the heat or a/c fan on? The more the fan is on, the more often your filter should be changed.
• How dusty is your home? If you get a lot of dust in your home, you will want to change your filter more often.
• Do you have animals? The fur and dander from animals will clog up those filters at a faster rate. While we love our furry pals, they can wreak havoc on your systems filter.
• Does anyone in your home smoke? Smoke can be detrimental to your filter, requiring it to be changed on a more frequent basis.

The bottom line? When the air filter is clogged the furnace is working harder and more energy is being used. And when it requires more energy to make your heating and air conditioning work, it causes your energy bill to skyrocket. Regularly changing your filter is protecting both your air quality and your wallet!

Call us with any questions and/or concerns, we would be happy to help! 262-554-6083