The Importance of Changing your Furnace Filter on a Regular Basis
November 17th, 2020
Changing your furnace filter on a regular basis is important for a number of reasons. By nature, fitlers become dirty and clogged over time when HVAC forced air systems are in use and if left too long, these dirty filters can cause more harm than good. In this article, the indoor air quality specialists at Solution D’Air in Gatineau explain why it is important to replace the filter in your HVAC furnace on a regular basis.
Indoor Air Quality + Health
Furnace filters play a major role in improving the indoor air quality in homes that have an HVAC or forced air heating system. Often constructed with pleated fibres encased in a cardboard frame, furnace filters trap airborne particles that have been drawn into the furnace and, as the name suggests, filter the heated air as it leaves the furnace en route to the ducts and heat vents in your home.
Some of the contaminants that are captured by furnace filters and therefore removed from the air circulating in your home include:
- Microorganisms and bacteria
- Animal fur and hair
- Lint and other fibers
- Mold and mold spores
- Pollen
- Dirt and dust
If the filter in your furnace is not changed on a regular basis, it can become clogged with the above mentioned contaminants and end up decreasing the indoor air quality of your home. Some of the health risks associated with poor indoor air quality include:
- Irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Aggravated Asthma + Respiratory Conditions
In order to increase the indoor air quality in your home, change your furnace filter on a regular basis. Refer to the instructions on the packaging of your furnace filter to find out how long the filter is designed to last, and be diligent about changing the filter on time.
Furnace Efficiency + Cold Spots
Clean furnace filters permit efficient air flow from your furnace blower, through the filter, and out through your air ducts to deliver warm air to the heat vents located throughout your home. A dirty HVAC filter blocks this flow and has a negative effect on the efficiency of your furnace.
Clogged furnace filters that are overdue for replacement will decrease both the amount of air and the force with which it flows through your furnace. Consequently, homeowners may notice that certain rooms in their home (especially those on upper levels) are not keeping as warm as they should. If you notice cold spots in your home, it could be a sign that it’s time to change your furnace filter.
In order to help your furnace to run at optimal efficiency and keep the heat constant and comfortable in your home, change your furnace filter regularly according to the instructions for the particular model you are using.
Reduced Energy Bills
When a furnace filter becomes clogged or blocked due to the debris particles that it has filtered out of your indoor air, the blower motor has to run longer in order to deliver heat throughout your home. Consequently, the longer your furnace has to run in order to maintain the desired temperature in your home, the more electricity and natural gas it will use.
To keep your energy bills lower during the cold winter months, change your furnace filter according to the guidelines for your specific filter model so that your furnace burns less gas and electricity.
Extend the LIfe of Your Furnace
Another cost saving benefit of regular furnace filter replacement is the cost associated with repairing or replacing your furnace. Furnaces that have to run longer and work harder to push air through dirty and clogged filters will have a shorter life expectancy.
In comparison to the major expense of furnace repair or replacement, furnace filters purchased at hardware stores or from your heating and cooling specialist are a small price to pay in order to keep your HVAC system running smoothly.
Checking your furnace filter is a simple DIY task that should be done on a regular basis. Read the directions printed on the side of your furnace filter or on the packaging to confirm how long the filter is designed to last, and set a reminder on your calendar when it’s time to replace it. Changing your furnace filter will not only improve the indoor air quality for the health and safety of your family, but it will also keep your furnace running efficiently for less money and for a longer life expectancy.
If you have questions about your furnace filter or other concerns about the indoor air quality of your home, don’t hesitate to reach out to the team at Solution D’Air in Gatineau. We’re here to help!
