When was the last time you replaced your furnace filter? Take a moment to think about it: was it last month? The month before? Maybe you can’t remember.
If so, you’re not alone — many homeowners don’t change their filters often enough because they forget or don’t view it as a big deal. However, not changing your filters can have a more significant impact than you might think.
Problems Caused By Clogged Filters
When you don’t change your filters routinely, they can become clogged with dust and other allergens. This can cause all kinds of issues, including:
- Decreased furnace efficiency: Your furnace won’t be as energy-efficient if its filters aren’t clean.
- High utility bills: If your furnace can’t run as well, then your energy usage will be higher to compensate.
- Air quality issues: If your furnace filters are clogged, your air isn’t adequately cleaned before circulating throughout your home.
- Health problems: Unclean air can lead to increased allergy symptoms and a higher risk for illness.
How & When To Replace Filters In Your Furnace
So, how often should you replace your filters?
That depends on the size of your home and the type of filters you have, but in general, you should replace them every 1-3 months. Your filters should say on the packaging how often they should be replaced, but if you have allergies or pets in the home, you should replace them more often to ensure that your air quality stays as clean as possible.
To replace your home filter, all you have to do is:
- Turn off your furnace
- Locate the furnace filter slot on your appliance
- Remove the old filter
- Slide in the new one
- Turn your furnace back on
The Importance Of Maintaining Your Furnace
With routine maintenance, your furnace will last much longer and run more efficiently. Here are some additional tips to help you stay on top of your HVAC maintenance:
- Write the installation date on your filter before putting it into your furnace: This will help you remember when you last changed it.
- Add a reminder to your calendar to change your filter: Do this immediately after installing your new filter so you don’t have to worry about forgetting.
- Clean your furnace: Wiping down your furnace of dust and vacuuming out the filter slot can help avoid buildup.
- Sign up for a maintenance plan: A professional can perform routine maintenance for you, including changing filters and providing a complete furnace tune-up.
Schedule Furnace Services With South West Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric Today
Remembering to change your furnace filters doesn’t have to be so hard. By signing up for a furnace maintenance plan with South West Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric, you can breathe easy knowing that we’ll take care of your furnace’s needs so you don’t have to.
Contact us now to schedule routine furnace services in Seattle, Bellevue, Tacoma, or Everett, WA.
