Picture this: A filter is the lungs of your heating system. It draws in air and purifies it. Then itreleases it when it is warm. Thisensures that your home is warm and habitable.
Picture this as well: You are breathing through a dirty piece of cloth. It is not healthy.This is what happens when the system’s filter is clogged. The result is:
- Poor air quality
- A slower furnace
- Cold drafts
- Uncomfortable home
- A high energy bill.
The solution is to change the filter regularly. This cansignificantly improve the system’s efficiency. But how frequently is right?
Let’s learn more!
How often?
Replace your furnace filter every 1-3 months. But some aspects can influence this:
- Filter type: A simple fiberglass filter should be changed every month. But some filters are better pleated. These can last up to three months.
- Home conditions: Pets or a high amount of dust imply that your filter will get clogged more quickly.
- Use of furnace: Maybeyour heating system is always on. You will need to change the filters more often.
The golden rule: Check your filter every month. When it appears dirty, then it needs to be replaced. Do not wait till it goes gray or brown. By that time, the airflow will be limited.
Sometimes, you may notice that your furnace is struggling even with a clean filter. Thisis the time to call for a professional furnace repair Calgary.
The work of a furnace filter
A filter has an easy task. It captures:
- Dust
- Dirt
- Pet hair
- Pollen
- Other particles in the air.
It prevents them from spreading throughout your house. However, when the filter is dirty, your furnace has to work harder. This extra strain can:
- Weaken efficiency
- Increase the energy bills
- Create hot spots or cold spots
- Compromise indoor air quality
- Aggravate respiratory illnesses
- Shorten the lifespan of your furnace.
Changing your filter is akin togiving your furnace a new set of lungs. This will keep it running efficiently.
Indicators of a filter that should be replaced
Your schedule may be routine. Butsome factors that might suggest that you need a new filter earlier:
- Dust is settling faster on furniture and surfaces.
- Strange furnace noises like whining or rattling.
- Reduced airflow from vents.
- High energy bills and no rise in consumption.
Change the filter when you see these signs. You will avoid more problems in the future.
Tips for easier maintenance
Have spares
It is easy to change the filter when you have one available.
Set a reminder
Use monthly or every three months reminders. This will dependon the type of filter.
Check seasonal changes
Inspect during the transition between heating and cooling seasons. This is a great time to check and replace filters.
The bottom line
Change your furnace filter every 1-3 months. This, however, depends on the type, usage, and environmental conditions. Check it every month. Change it when it is dirty.
This can help you save on expensive issues, increase the life of your furnace, and avoid having to make emergency furnace repair Calgary calls. A clean filter also translates to a comfortable home.