Step 1: Regular Visual Inspectionįor energy-efficient furnaces that are built with filters designed to pull smaller electrostatically particles from the air, the most effective maintenance method is to visually inspect your filter each month. Regular maintenance of a furnace filter seldom goes much further than visual inspection and adherence to a timeline. While proper maintenance of a furnace filter is one of the most important ways to ensure the air quality inside your home, it is also – fortunately – one of the easiest. Over time, this guardian can become clogged after holding back the dirt, dust, mold spores, pet dander, bacteria, virus-carrying particles, soot, and other allergens present in the air. This build-up compromises the filter’s ability to protect the air you breathe, and can result in everything from decreased furnace efficiency to increased energy costs. Furnace air filter replacement is an easy way to extend the life and improve the function of your HVAC system.For Minnesota residents, the furnace filter is a silent guardian preventing the irritable particles present in the indoor air in which we live from penetrating the indoor air in which we breathe. Pleated filters are more effective because they have a larger surface area to capture dust and debris.Īlways choose the best quality filter you can afford. Compared to synthetic fibers, electrostatic materials help attract more harmful particles and are more durable. We think pleated electrostatic filters are the best. Too low a MERV can leave your system vulnerable to dust and dirt. However, you should always check your user’s manual for the manufacturer’s suggested MERV. We recommend a filter with a MERV rating of 8 or above. You can learn more in our helpful guide on common air filter sizes.Ī furnace filter’s MERV rating indicates the granularity of particles it can trap. Make sure you purchase one that matches the size of your existing filter. When purchasing furnace filters, you’ll see the following attributes on the packaging: □ Sizeįurnace air filters come in a variety of sizes. Our article on the best air filters for your lifestyle can help you choose the ideal one for your needs. There are many variables to consider when choosing your furnace air filter replacement. Need help changing your filter? Book an appointment with an HVAC pro. Position it using the printed arrows on the frame as a guide. Unwrap your new furnace filter and slide it into the filter compartment. Slide out the used filter and dispose of it.Ĥ. It’s usually between the return air duct and the furnace.ģ. Watch our air filter replacement video or follow the instructions below.ġ. Your furnace takes super-thick filters (3+ inches)įurnace air filter replacement is a job you can DIY.The home is a vacation property that’s not always inhabited.You’ve recently remodeled or done construction in your home.You live in an area with high pollution.You or your family members have respiratory challenges.However, there are some situations when you may want to change your filter more or less often. In most cases, you should change your furnace filters every three months. How often should you replace your furnace air filters? If you don’t replace or clean your filter regularly, it could restrict airflow and damage your HVAC equipment. The filter catches and traps contaminants as air passes through your heating system. Without a filter, your HVAC equipment would become dirty, negatively affecting its performance (and likely increasing your utility bills). The frame and mesh exist to strengthen the filter.įurnace filters improve air quality in your home and protect your HVAC components from dust and debris. Furnace air filters usually consist of a cardboard frame, a fiberglass filter, and metal mesh.
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