The cold Lorain and Oberlin winters keep our furnaces running daily. Every minute your furnace runs, the furnace filter picks up debris from the passing air. Making sure the filter is clean and properly maintained has a number of benefits.
The Benefits of a Clean Furnace Filter
The air filter must be clean to allow air to flow into the furnace at the correct rate. A filter that’s covered in a layer of debris interferes with airflow, forcing the motor to work harder and use more energy to pull in enough air. The result is higher energy bills. Changing your filter on schedule can save you a significant percentage on your heating costs.
When the motor is overworked, it’s at risk for damage and early failure. Overheating is another risk. Keeping the filter clean helps you avoid surprise breakdowns.
A clean filter also means better indoor air quality. When a filter becomes clogged with dust and other air contaminants, it can begin to re-release those accumulated contaminants into your ducts and back into home’s air.
When to Change Your Filter
How often you need to change your furnace filter depends on the type of filter you use and your indoor air quality. In general, the higher the filter’s efficiency, the longer it lasts. A 1-inch fiberglass filter should be changed monthly. More efficient filters, which have MERV numbers between 6 and 11, last longer. In fact, a pleated filter can last up to six months. If your household includes pets or smokers, or you live in a smoggy part of town, your filter’s lifespan will be shorter.
Check the filter manufacturer’s directions for use regarding how often to replace the filter. Regardless of filter type you use, remove your filter for inspection once a month. Hold the filter up to a light source. If you can’t see light shining through, put in a new filter.
For more tips on choosing and maintaining your furnace filter, contact us at Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning in the Lorain, Elyria, and Oberlin area.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Lorain, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about furnace filters and other HVAC topics, call us at 440-201-2959.
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Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning
1 (440) 246-5440
Serving the Lorain, OH Area