How To Change Furnace Filter

The furnace filter is one of the most essential components of any home or workplace. It plays a vital role in cleaning the air indoors and improving air quality by removing airborne contaminants such as dirt, dust, and pollen. With various types of furnace filters available, it's important to choose one that meets your specific needs.

Many people wonder if it's necessary to change furnace filters regularly. The answer is yes! Regular maintenance of your filter is crucial. Failing to change it can harm your HVAC system and lead to costly repairs. You might have questions like, "How do I change the furnace filter?" or "How often should I change it?" This blog will provide answers to these questions and guide you through the process of changing your furnace filter.

Make sure to read through the entire blog to find the information you need. Understanding how to maintain your furnace filter will help ensure that your HVAC system runs efficiently and that the air you breathe is clean and healthy.

What Is A Furnace Filter?

Before you learn how to change a furnace filter, it's important to understand what a furnace filter is and the various types available. A furnace filter is a vital part of your HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system. Its main job is to trap and remove pollutants like pollen, dust, and other airborne particles from the air before they circulate throughout your home.

Typically, the furnace filter is located between the main furnace unit and the return air duct. This placement ensures that the air entering your furnace is clean and free of contaminants. By doing so, the filter helps maintain good indoor air quality and protects your HVAC system from dirt and debris, allowing it to run more efficiently. Understanding the role of your furnace filter will help you appreciate the importance of regular maintenance and timely replacements.

Types Of Furnace Filters

Choosing the right furnace filter is crucial for maintaining indoor air quality and ensuring the efficient operation of your HVAC system. With various types of filters available, understanding their differences can help you select the best option for your home. Here are five common types of furnace filters, along with their benefits and applications:

1. Polyester Filters

Polyester filters are made from synthetic polymers and are designed to trap a significant amount of airborne particles. They can capture between 80% and 95% of particles that are 5 microns or larger. Some key advantages of polyester filters include:

• Durability: They offer excellent resistance to mechanical stress and various chemicals, making them suitable for diverse environments.
• Quick Drying: When exposed to moisture, polyester filters dry faster than many other types, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth.
• High-Temperature Operation: These filters can operate at high temperatures, reaching up to 302 degrees Fahrenheit without compromising performance.

Polyester filters are ideal for homeowners looking for a reliable option that balances efficiency and longevity.

2. Fiberglass Filters

Fiberglass filters, often referred to as disposable filters, are among the most affordable options available. Their lifespan is typically around 30 days, and they can capture up to 80% of particles that are 50 microns or larger, along with about 25% of particles between 3 to 10 microns. Benefits include:

• Cost-Effectiveness: Fiberglass filters are one of the most budget-friendly choices, making them accessible for many homeowners.
• Wide Availability: These filters are easy to find in stores, ensuring you can quickly replace them when necessary.
• Effective For Large Particles: They are particularly good at capturing larger particles like pet dander and dust, making them suitable for homes with pets or high dust levels.

However, they may not be the best choice for those seeking high-efficiency filtration.

3. Electrostatic Filters

Electrostatic filters utilize charged fibers to attract and capture airborne particles, providing effective filtration. They are available in both washable and disposable formats. Advantages of electrostatic filters include:

• High Filtration Efficiency: These filters are effective at capturing small particles, including bacteria, viruses, and spores, making them excellent for allergy sufferers.
• Long Lifespan: Once installed, washable electrostatic filters can last for years with proper maintenance, reducing the frequency of replacements.
• Energy Efficiency: They generally require less energy to operate compared to traditional filters, leading to potential cost savings on your energy bills.

Electrostatic filters are ideal for those looking for a sustainable and efficient filtration solution.

4. Pleated Filters

Pleated filters are made from cloth or paper that is folded in a series to create a larger surface area for filtration. This design allows them to capture more particles than flat filters. Key benefits include:

• Increased Filtration Area: The pleated design increases the surface area, enhancing the filter's ability to capture dust and allergens effectively.
• Better Airflow: By allowing more air to pass through, pleated filters help HVAC systems operate more efficiently, which can extend their lifespan.
• Variety Of Materials: Pleated filters can be made from various materials, such as polyester, polypropylene, or fiberglass, allowing you to choose based on your specific needs and budget.

These filters are popular among homeowners who want an effective balance between cost and performance.

5. HEPA Filters

High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are renowned for their exceptional filtration capabilities. They can capture around 99% of particles that are 0.3 microns or larger, making them an excellent choice for reducing indoor pollutants. Benefits of HEPA filters include:

• Versatile Applications: HEPA filters are used in various settings, including homes, hospitals, and laboratories, due to their high filtration efficiency.
• Durability: Made from robust materials, HEPA filters tend to last longer, providing consistent performance over time.
• Enhanced Filtration: When combined with other filter types, HEPA filters can significantly improve air quality by capturing even more pollutants.

While HEPA filters may come with a higher initial cost, their effectiveness makes them a worthwhile investment for those prioritizing indoor air quality.

Steps To Change A Furnace Filter

Changing furnace filters is an essential task for maintaining good air quality in your home or workplace. If you neglect this important maintenance step, harmful air pollutants can circulate freely, affecting your health and comfort. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to help you change your furnace filter easily and correctly.

Step 1: Turn Off The Furnace

Before starting, the first and most important step is to turn off your HVAC system. This is crucial for safety, as working on a powered system can expose you to dust and debris. Locate the power switch or thermostat and turn off the furnace. After doing this, wait until the blower fan completely stops running. To ensure it has stopped, you can check inside the air handler. This step helps prevent any dust from entering the system while you change the filter.

Step 2: Find The Furnace Filter

Once you’ve confirmed that the system is off, it’s time to locate the furnace filter. Typically, the filter is situated inside the heating system, usually within the air handler. If your system has a return air register, it’s worth checking there as well, as some setups include a second filter in that location. You can easily identify the return air register by observing where the HVAC system pulls in air. It's important to know the exact location of your filter so you can access it easily.

Step 3: Remove The Old Filter

After you’ve found the filter, it’s time to remove it. Start by taking off the access panel, which usually covers the filter compartment. As you pull out the old filter, pay close attention to the arrows printed on its side. These arrows indicate the direction of airflow, which is crucial for the proper installation of the new filter. Make a mental note of this direction, as it will guide you when installing the new filter.

Step 4: Choose A Replacement Filter

Now that you’ve removed the old filter, it’s essential to select the right replacement. Make sure to find a filter that matches the size and specifications of the old one. Here are some common options:

• Disposable Pleated Filters: These filters are affordable and can capture small particles, including dust and spores. They offer a good balance between cost and performance.
• Disposable Fiberglass Filters: Known for being the most cost-effective option, these filters effectively capture larger particles. However, they need to be replaced more frequently.
• HEPA Filters: These high-efficiency filters are excellent for removing allergens and airborne particles. They are more expensive but worth considering for those with allergies or respiratory issues.
• Permanent Electrostatic Filters: These filters use self-charging fibers to attract particles and can be washed and reused. While they may have a higher initial cost, they can save money in the long run.

Step 5: Install The Replacement Filter

With your new filter selected, it’s time for the installation. Insert the replacement filter into the designated slot, making sure the arrows are pointing in the correct direction of airflow. This ensures the filter will work effectively to clean the air as it passes through the system. Once the new filter is in place, securely replace the access panel to cover the filter compartment.

Benefits Of Changing The Furnace Filter

Changing furnace filters is crucial for the health of your HVAC systems, yet many people overlook this simple task. Failing to change your filters regularly can lead to poor indoor air quality and even harm your heating and cooling systems. Here are several key benefits of maintaining your furnace filters.

Improved Air Quality

Research has shown that the air inside our homes and workplaces can be 2 to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air. Furnace filters play a vital role in improving indoor air quality by trapping dirt, dust, and other airborne pollutants. These contaminants can contribute to various health issues, including respiratory problems and allergies. By cleaning and replacing your furnace filters regularly, you ensure that the air your family breathes remains fresh and safe. This small yet important step can significantly reduce the risk of health conditions related to poor air quality.

Increases The Life Of The Furnace

Just like any other machine, your HVAC system requires regular maintenance to function optimally over time. Changing the furnace filter regularly is an easy way to extend the lifespan of your unit. Neglecting this maintenance step can lead to increased wear and tear, potentially resulting in costly repairs or premature replacement of the system.

Decreases Frequency Of Repairs

Regularly replacing your furnace filters helps prevent unnecessary damage to your HVAC systems. During extreme weather conditions, the strain on your system increases, heightening the risk of breakdowns. By ensuring your filters are clean, you can protect your investment and save both time and money. Remember, routine maintenance is typically far less expensive than repairing a malfunctioning system.

Helps Save Money

Clogged furnace filters hinder airflow, causing your HVAC system to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. This increased effort can lead to higher energy bills, especially during peak heating and cooling seasons. According to the Department of Energy, regularly changing your furnace filters can reduce your energy consumption by 5% to 15%. This means more money in your pocket and a more efficient home.

Reasons That Get Furnace Filters Dirty

Several factors can contribute to a dirty furnace filter. First, using your furnace often means it captures more air for filtering, which leads to the accumulation of more airborne particles. Common culprits include dirt, dust, and pet dander, all of which can clog the filter if not properly maintained.

Additionally, the fan setting can play a significant role. If the fan is set to "on" instead of "auto," it continuously moves air through the filter, increasing the amount of dirt and debris that gets trapped. This constant airflow can lead to a quicker buildup of contaminants.

Finally, the quality of the filter itself can affect how quickly it becomes dirty. Cheap filters often have a shorter lifespan, sometimes as little as 30 days, making them less effective at trapping particles and requiring more frequent replacement. Regular maintenance and using higher-quality filters can help prevent these issues and ensure your HVAC system operates efficiently.

How Often Should You Change A Furnace Filter?

Clogging of the furnace filter begins when dust, dirt, pollen, and other particles are trapped within it. This buildup restricts airflow in your HVAC system, forcing your furnace to work harder, which can lead to higher electric bills and a decreased lifespan for your furnace. To determine how often you should change your furnace filter, it's essential to refer to the replacement recommendations provided by the manufacturer. Generally, it's advisable to change your furnace filter every 60 to 90 days.

The EPA recommends checking your filters once a month and replacing them if they are heavily soiled, especially during the winter months when the furnace is in frequent use. For most households, changing the furnace filter every three months is a good rule of thumb. However, if you use HEPA filters, you may find that they require less frequent replacement. Some HEPA filters are also washable and can be cleaned rather than replaced, typically needing maintenance only once a year. For more details on when to change a furnace filter, you can refer to this comprehensive guide here.

Conclusion

Furnace filters are essential components for maintaining indoor air quality. They effectively trap dust, dirt, pollen, and other air pollutants, creating a cleaner and safer environment. This is crucial for preventing health issues that can arise from exposure to unclean air.

Regularly changing the furnace filter is necessary for several reasons: it helps reduce energy costs, minimizes the risk of unnecessary repairs, and ensures optimal performance of your HVAC system. To maintain these benefits, individuals should aim to change their furnace filters every 60 to 90 days. By doing so, you not only improve air quality but also enhance the longevity and efficiency of your heating and cooling systems.

Wondering where to find a good-quality furnace filter for your HVAC system? Don’t worry! Custom Filters Direct is here for you. We are known for our high-quality furnace filters, and we also provide custom air filters, so you can have filters according to your requirements. To know more about us and what we offer, call us at (877) 749-1748, and we’ll be very happy to help you.

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