Air filters for heating and cooling systems are not designed to last forever. On the contrary, since air filters work better when they’re clean, you should plan to check the filter in your furnace or air conditioner once a month. If it looks dirty, replace it. If it’s still clean, check it again in another month. Most filters are designed to last up to three months, so you should replace the filter at this point even if it doesn’t appear clogged.
Here are some benefits of keeping on top of air filter replacement:
- Clean air filters promote a long-lasting HVAC system. Air flows smoothly when air filters are clean, which prevents the air handler from overworking itself and burning out. The cost of a new filter every one to three months is a small investment in order to help keep your system up and running for many years.
- Clean air filters conserve energy. Fan motors that work less hard consume less energy. If you’re looking to decrease your energy bills, changing the filter to improve airflow in the system is a great way to get your wish.
- Clean air filters improve air quality. This is especially important if you have pets or if anyone in your home suffers from allergies or asthma. Changing the filter allows it to work better at capturing airborne particles.
- Clean air filters reduce your carbon footprint. Less energy consumption means fewer pollutants are released into the air. Frequently changing your filter is an easy, cheap way to help the environment.
Changing your air filter regularly is only one part of important furnace maintenance. You should also make sure you’re using an efficient filter (at least MERV 8). And to help your equipment last as long as possible and keep energy bills down, set up a maintenance plan for annual preventative tune-ups.
To learn more about taking good care of your heating and cooling equipment, please contact us at Geisel Heating, Air Conditioning and Plumbing. We serve Lorain, Cuyahoga and Medina counties.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about air filters and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
Geisel Heating, Air Conditioning and Plumbing services Western Cleveland. Visit our website to see our special offers and get started today! For those Do it Yourselfers who would rather take control of your own indoor comfort, you can shop our online store for replacement parts, products and accessories!
