Most people fall in one of three furnace filter routines. Some change their filter once per season, some change it monthly and yet other are like “What filter?”. No matter what group you fall in most likely you not changing your filter at the right interval. We have seen furnaces quit working because the filter was so dirty that air couldn’t pass through it and we have seen a pile of filters in the garbage that still look new.
So, how often should you change your filter? In general 1-2″ filters are good for up to 3 months, 3-4″ filters up to 6 months and 5″-6″ filter up to a year. It is best to look for the manufacturer recommendations found either on the filter or at their website. Pet hair, dust and dirty ductwork can reduce the life of your filters.
You can see the difference in the new filter on the left compared to the old one on the right. Taking the filter out periodically and inspecting it is really the only way that you can ensure the condition of it. It is ok if your white filter turns slightly grey. This is dust that the filter is collecting. Once the filter starts turning darker and you can see pet hair it is best to replace. You can see how air flow is greatly limited by the amount of dirt and pet hair in the old filter.
Don’t be afraid to take your filter out and look at the condition of your filter. It will ensure that you are keeping your indoor air quality good and not throwing money out the window replacing filters that need not be changed. If you have any question please call us and we can either walk you through changing the filter or send someone out to do it for you. Keep your furnace happy and your family warm this winter.
