How Often Should You Change Your Furnace Filter?

Your Key to a Cozy, Cost-Efficient Home

When it comes to keeping your home cozy and your energy bills in check during the chilly Bountiful, UT winters, your furnace plays a crucial role. But did you know that a simple and often overlooked component can greatly impact its efficiency and lifespan? We’re talking about your furnace filter. In this blog, we’ll answer the burning question: How often should you change your furnace filter?

The Basics of Furnace Filters

Before we dive into the timing, let’s understand the role of a furnace filter. It’s not just a piece of fabric that catches dust and debris; it’s a vital part of your HVAC system. The filter’s primary job is to trap dust, allergens, and pollutants from the air, ensuring the air circulated throughout your home is clean and healthy.

Factors That Affect Filter Lifespan

Several factors can influence how often you should change your furnace filter:

Filter Type

Disposable fiberglass filters typically need replacement every 1-3 months. Pleated filters, with higher filtration capacity, may last 3-6 months. Washable or reusable filters can last 6 months to a year or longer.

Allergies and Pets

If you have allergies or furry friends, consider changing your filter more frequently, around 1-2 months, to maintain indoor air quality.

Usage

If your furnace runs constantly during the winter, you’ll need to replace the filter more often than if it’s used sparingly.

Recommended Replacement Schedule

Now that we’ve covered the factors, here’s a general guideline for when to change your furnace filter:

Check Monthly

Start by checking your filter monthly, especially during peak heating months.

If it looks dirty or clogged, replace it, regardless of the time frame mentioned on the packaging.

Every 1-3 Months

For standard disposable fiberglass filters, replacing them every 1-3 months is usually sufficient.

Pleated filters might last a bit longer, but it’s best to check them regularly.

Every 6 Months or Annually

If you’re using a washable or reusable filter, clean it every 1-2 months and replace it annually.

Benefits of Regular Filter Maintenance

Changing your furnace filter as recommended offers several benefits:

• Improved Indoor Air Quality: Clean filters ensure that the air you breathe is free from dust, allergens, and pollutants.
• Energy Efficiency: A clean filter allows your furnace to operate more efficiently, reducing energy consumption and lowering your utility bills.
• Extended Furnace Lifespan: Proper maintenance can help prolong the life of your furnace, saving you money on costly repairs or replacements.

Get Furnace Help From the Professionals

In conclusion, the frequency of changing your furnace filter depends on filter type, usage, and environmental factors like allergies and pets. Regular maintenance ensures that your furnace runs efficiently, keeps your indoor air clean, and extends the life of your HVAC system. If you have any questions or need assistance with your furnace, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Craig’s Services in Bountiful, UT. We’re here to keep you warm and comfortable all winter long!