When was the last time you changed your furnace filter? If you can’t remember, it’s probably time you went and checked it. On average, you should be checking your filter every couple of months, or even more regularly when the system is constantly being used. With the cold weather approaching and many homes in Indiana preparing to turn on the heat, there are a few reasons you should start regularly changing your furnace filter.
Reasons You Need to Change Your Furnace Filter
Reduces Energy Costs
Getting that utility bill at the end of the month already isn’t a good time, but you can help it hurt your wallet a little less by routinely replacing your furnace’s filter. According to the Department of Energy, heating and cooling make up on average 29% of our utility bill. But, when you have a clogged filter, it forces the furnace to work twice as hard to heat your home, driving up energy usage and your bill. A clean, new filter allows your system to work efficiently and effectively, reducing your energy costs.
Extends Your Furnace’s Lifespan
When your furnace has to work harder to heat your home because of an old, clogged filter, it puts strain on the entire system. Unfortunately, this can lead to overheating, which can cause some severe damage to your furnace. Ultimately, this can end up reducing your system’s lifespan, causing you to have to pay for a replacement way sooner than you would have if you had regularly replaced the filter.
Higher Indoor Air Quality
The filter in your furnace is designed to trap airborne pollutants like allergens, pet dander, dust, and even mold. Unfortunately, when you have a clogged filter, it becomes ineffective at trapping these particles. Instead, it spreads them around your home and into the air you breathe. With a new filter, you can improve the indoor air quality of your home and the health of you and your family.
How to Replace Your Furnace Filter
If your furnace’s filter needs to be replaced, here are three easy steps to replace it:
- Turn off the furnace and remove the existing filter. Determine which size filter you need to replace. You will also want to make a note of an arrow on the filter, which indicates the system’s airflow direction.
- Buy a replacement which is the same size as the old one.
- Install the new filter by sliding it into place, making sure the arrow is pointing in the same direction as the system. Write down the date you changed the filter and mark your calendar for when you should check it next.
Schedule Furnace Maintenance with Supreme PHC!
Replacing your filter isn’t the only maintenance you should be doing on your furnace or HVAC system. At Supreme PHC, we offer service agreements, so your furnace maintenance is done on a regular basis, giving you the peace of mind that your system will work no matter what.
If you’re interested in scheduling furnace maintenance, contact us today!
