Home Tip #11: How One Simple Change Will Improve Your Air Quality

Breathe Easy: The Cheap Hack That Could Save Your Lungs

Author

Ron Henderson, CMI
September 17, 2024 • Read Time: 6 minutes

The Secret to Cleaner Air and Lower Bills: Your Furnace Filter

Changing your furnace filter is one of those little things that often gets overlooked, but it’s a game-changer for your home’s air quality, energy efficiency, and even your wallet.

Let’s dive into why this simple task should be on your to-do list and how to get it done without breaking a sweat.

The Pros & Cons

😊 Pros

  • Better Air Quality: Regularly changing your filter helps keep dust, allergens, and other airborne nasties at bay, making your home’s air healthier to breathe.

  • Increased Energy Efficiency: A clean filter means your furnace doesn’t have to work as hard to push air through your home, which can lower your energy bills.

  • Extended Furnace Lifespan: By reducing wear and tear on your system, a clean filter helps prevent costly breakdowns and extends the life of your furnace.

  • Improved Home Comfort: A clean filter keeps the airflow strong and consistent, meaning you won’t have to deal with cold spots or uneven heating.t

😡 Cons

  • Higher Energy Bills: A clogged filter makes your furnace work overtime, and that extra effort shows up on your monthly bill.

  • Poor Air Quality: Dirt, dust, and allergens recirculate through your home, aggravating allergies and making your space feel less fresh.

  • Risk of Furnace Damage: Overworking your furnace due to a clogged filter can lead to overheating and costly repairs.

  • Uneven Heating: Restricted airflow can leave some rooms warmer than others, turning your cozy living room into a sauna while your bedroom feels like the Arctic

🤷‍♂️ Why Do Furnace Filters get so Dirty?

Furnace filters trap dust, dirt, pet hair, and other particles from the air before they enter your furnace.

Over time, these particles build up and clog the filter, reducing airflow and forcing your furnace to work harder.

Forgetting to change the filter regularly is the main reason this happens, but high usage during peak seasons like winter can also speed up the clogging process.

🏡 How to instructions

You’ll Need:

Steps:

  1. Turn Off the Furnace: Safety first—turn off the furnace at the thermostat or switch. It’s also way easier to change the filter without the furnace fan running.

  2. Locate the Filter Compartment: This is usually near the intake/outflow blower or behind a removable panel. Check your furnace’s manual if you’re unsure.

  3. Remove the Old Filter: Slide the old filter out. If it’s filthy (and it probably will be), it’s doing its job!

  4. Check the Arrow: The filter has an arrow indicating airflow direction. Make sure this arrow points toward the furnace when you install the new one.

  5. Write the Date: Use the Felt marker or pen to write the current date on the edge of the filter.

  6. Insert the New Filter: Slide the new filter into place, ensuring it’s snug but not forced.

  7. Turn the Furnace Back On: Restore power and enjoy better airflow and cleaner air!

✔ Tips & Tricks

  • Mark Your Calendar: Set a reminder to check and change your filter every 1-3 months, especially during heavy heating or cooling seasons.

  • Choose the Right Filter: Filters come in different MERV ratings, which indicate their ability to trap particles. Higher MERV ratings trap more pollutants but can restrict airflow, so check what’s best for your system.

  • Keep a Spare: Always keep an extra filter on hand so you’re never caught without a replacement.

  • Vacuum Around the Filter Area: Before inserting the new filter, give the area a quick vacuum to remove any loose dust or debris.

🛠 When to call a Pro

If you’re unsure about the type of filter to use, have airflow issues even after changing the filter, or if your furnace is making strange noises, it’s time to call in a professional. A HVAC pro can inspect your system, ensure everything’s running smoothly, and provide recommendations for keeping your furnace in top shape.

Changing your furnace filter is a small task with big rewards. It's your secret weapon for a healthier, more efficient home. Why wait? Check your filter today and breathe easier tomorrow!

❓ Q&A: How often should I change my filter?

The general rule of thumb for changing furnace filters is:

  • For 1-inch thick filters: Change every 1-3 months

  • For 3-4 inch thick filters: Change every 6-9 months

  • For 5-6 inch thick filters: Change every 9-12 months

However, this frequency can vary depending on several factors:

  1. Household composition:

    • Homes with pets: Change more frequently, about every 2 months

    • Homes with allergy sufferers: Change monthly

    • Homes with smokers: Change more often, potentially monthly

  2. Environmental factors:

    • High pollution areas: Change more frequently

    • Dusty regions or during high pollen seasons: Check and change more often

  3. HVAC usage:

    • Heavy use periods (extreme summer or winter): Check monthly

    • Moderate climates with less HVAC use: May extend to 3 months

  4. Filter quality:

  5. Visual inspection:

    • Regardless of time, if the filter looks dirty, it should be changed

The Handy Homeowner

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