5 Things To Know About Your Furnace Air Filter

One of the most common questions we receive from our customers is, "How often should I replace my furnace filter?" The answer to that question is usually once a month. However, there are a few other things to consider when it's time to replace your furnace air filter. 1. Buy filters in bulk and keep them near your furnace. Having filters ready near your furnace will reduce the tendency to procrastinate and wait too long between filter changes. Also, buying a package of filters is usually less expensive than purchasing individual filters. 2. Always use the correct size filter. An poor-fitting furnace filter will allow dirt and debris to get around the filter and contaminate the air in your home. It can also lead to clogged air conditioner coils, reducing the efficiency of the unit and shortening the lifespan of the compressor and other components. 3. Install the filter facing right direction. Most filters have arrows indicating the direction of air flow. Putting the filter in backwards can cause the filter to work less efficiently and in some cases may cause the filter to buckle, allowing air around the filter. 4. Be safe! Always turn of the power at the breaker rather than the thermostat before changing the filter. This will ensure that if you come in contact with any wiring near the filter enclosure you won't get shocked. 5. Furnace filters are not air cleaners. While most 1" furnace filters will keep much of the dirt and debris out of your air ducts, they are not going to keep the air free of contamination. If your home has excess dust, pet dander, smoke or other contaminants,   consider installing a high quality home air filtration system. These HEPA filters are designed to capture the smaller particles that pass through many 1" furnace air filters. Have questions about your furnace filters or your home's heating and cooling system? Call ABC Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, Cooling and Electric. We are always here to help answer your questions.