Once winter arrives, many homeowners forget to change their furnace filter on a regular basis. Taking the time to change your furnace filter may help improve your air quality, keep your HVAC equipment in better working order and save you money.
Top Three Reasons to Change Your Furnace Filter
- Dirty air filters are the primary culprit behind HVAC system failures. A dirty or clogged filter restricts airflow to your climate control system's air handler, which puts an additional strain on the handler fan motor. After time, your furnace motor may burn out, the system may overheat or your equipment could completely fail. Taking the time to change your furnace filter regularly can help HVAC system's longevity and performance.
- Dirty air filters can force your fan motor to overwork. This uses up more energy than is needed, which can not only cause damage to your system but may significantly raise your utility bill.
- Dirty air filters can drastically reduce your indoor air quality. Dust and allergens can cause the aggravation of allergies, asthma and other illnesses.
How Often Should You Change Your Furnace Filter?
Because every household is different, it is hard to say exactly how often you will need to change your furnace filter. Homes with smokers or pets will likely need to change their filters more regularly than other households. It is recommended that homeowners take a peek at their furnace filters on a monthly basis to see if they are filled with dirt and other debris. If this is the case, you will need to change your filter promptly to avoid any problems.