How Often Should I Change My Furnace Filter? Complete Guide.

A clean and unclogged furnace filter is necessary to keep the heating systems efficient, as well as to keep the whole house’s atmosphere healthy and clean. So you might ask how often should I change my furnace filter? Well it depends on the size and quality of the furnace filter, a smaller filter will require changes more often and a bigger furnace filter won’t require changes that often. Whichever the case it is a good habit to keep the filters in check for any damage or dirt and dust.

If that doesn’t answer your question then let’s look a little deeper in this topic

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How Often Should You Change Your Furnace Filter?

As we discussed before, the changing frequency of the filter depends on the type of the filter. The quality of the filter depends on its manufacturer, a trusted manufacturer’s filter will last much longer than some local brands filters.

Another contributing factor is the filter’s thickness. A thicker filter will have more space to collect dust and debris, so it will last longer and won’t require that often change. Whereas a thin filter like the 1 inch one won’t last as much and will get full early and require a change.

The standard time to change filter can be as follows:

• 1 to 2 inch filters: Replace every 1 to 3 months.
• 3 to 4 inch filters: Replace every 6 to 9 months.
• 5 to 6 inch filters: Replace every 9 to 12 months.

Another important thing is to always check the instructions given from the manufacturers. It will give you the best idea to when your filter needs a change.

Lastly if you are a busy individual you might want to consider an air filter program. Basically the program offers a subscription that delivers the filters to its customers on time, removing the hassle of remembering the time to change the filters.

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What happens if you don’t change your furnace filter?

Now let’s look at some problems that you might face if you don’t keep your filters in check and replace them.

• Reduced Airflow: As the dust and debris start to build up in the filter, eventually it will clog up the filter and this will result in reduced air flow.
• Poor Air Quality: Dirty filters will also cause poor air quality around the house, that can later become the cause of any disease or allergies.
• Increased Energy Costs:The dip in efficiency due to clogged filters causes the system to stress and overwork, this leads to increased energy bill due to overwork.
• Shortened Lifespan:The continuous stress and overwork of the system cause it to lose its durability and reduce its lifespan.

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How do I know if my furnace filter needs to be replaced?

You need to keep checking for the following things to be updated about your filters.

• Check the color: A filter is commonly white or in a light color, so a dirty filter will probably be dark because of all the dust and dirt.
• Increased dust in your home: If you notice increased dust , debris or hairs flying around in the house it can be a sign of dirty filters.
• Higher energy bills: As discussed, dirty filters will overwork the system and cause greater energy bills.
• Furnace running longer with less heat output: Another sign is reduced efficiency. The furnace will run longer to provide the same amount of cooling and heat.
• Unusual smells: Unusual smells and foul odors around the house can also be a sign of dirty fences.

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Common Reasons To Change Your Furnace Filter More Often.

Dust

Pets

Allergies and Asthma

Heavy HVAC Use

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