How Often Should You Change Your Furnace Filter?

Your furnace system is key to maintaining a healthy central air system in your home. However, just as you would change the air filters in your home or vehicle, the filters in your furnace require the same maintenance to provide optimal air quality for you, your family, and your pets. 

We know that adding yet another home maintenance chore to the list can seem overwhelming. But replacing furnace filters does not have to be a headache. Here we are going to give you the low-down on why, how, and when to give your furnaces a little TLC or invest in professional furnace and heating services. 

Why Your Furnace Needs an Air Filter

Furnace air filters are your safeguard against harmful air pollutants in your home. They remove dirt, debris, and allergens like dust or pollen from the air, helping to maintain a healthy environment. They also prevent harmful air pollutants from spreading viruses and affecting your health.

When filters aren’t changed regularly, they clog with debris, restricting airflow. This forces your furnace or AC to work harder, increasing energy use and potentially leading to equipment failure, especially during the cooling season.

A clogged filter stops trapping particles, allowing them to enter the furnace motor and other parts. Regularly changing your air filter helps maintain airflow, reducing the risk of system failure and costly repairs.

How Often To Change or Replace Your Furnace Filter

Regularly conducting air filter replacements in your furnace is a simple way to improve your indoor air quality. Neglecting maintenance for your furnace can lead to higher energy bills, inefficient heating, and a higher likelihood of breakdowns.

Furnace filters typically need to be changed every 90 days, though this varies based on individual circumstances. The few components that can affect the time needed between filter replacements include: 

Filter Thickness

A furnace’s filter thickness can vary from 1 to 5 inches, depending on what size is compatible with its air handler and furnace’s filter slot. A general rule of thumb is that the thicker the furnace filter, the longer it is intended to last. 

Here’s an overview of filter thickness and recommended replacement time: 

• 1” furnace filters require replacement every 1-3 months.
• 2” furnace filters require replacement every 1-3 months.
• 4” furnace filters require replacement every 6-9 months.
• 5” furnace filters require replacement every 9-12 months.

Investing in a thicker filter can help your furnace maintain airflow longer, leading to better performance and less need for maintenance.

Seasonal Factors

Seasonal weather in Minnesota greatly impacts your furnace system. Both freezing winters and hot summers put extra strain on your furnace, making proper filter maintenance essential. Here are some seasonal recommendations to optimally maintain your filters:

Winter: Filters may last the full 90 days unless your furnace is used heavily.

Summer: Change filters more frequently, ideally every month, as the air conditioner runs more often, pulling in more air and debris. 

Pet Considerations

Pets are beloved members of the family, but their fur and dander can accumulate in your furnace filter. This reduces its effectiveness and raises the risk of allergens and pollutants that impact indoor air quality. To keep both you and your pets comfortable, consider replacing the filter more frequently. 

What Happens if You Don’t Change Your Furnace Filter?

A furnace filter that’s past its prime poses both safety risks and health concerns. A dirty filter negatively impacts indoor air quality, leading to decreased comfort, higher energy costs, and an HVAC system that struggles to perform efficiently. This can result in costly repairs and system failures over time.

It’s crucial to change the filter before it leads to more serious issues, such as clogging, overheating, or even fire hazards. A clogged filter can also cause short-cycling, where the furnace is constantly running or shuts off unexpectedly. Regularly replacing your filter helps maintain system efficiency and ensures the safety and comfort of your home.

Signs You Need to Replace Your Furnace Filter

Not sure if you need to replace your furnace filter? There are many indicators to help you plan for and conduct the replacement of a filter, depending on your home’s specific usage and your city’s weather conditions. 

Here’s a few warning signs: 

• Poor Air Quality: If you notice that the air in your home is harder to breathe or your allergies have been worse, your filter could be clogged with debris and allergens. 
• Costly Energy Bills: Seeing an unexpected climb in your utility bill? A clogged filter could be making your furnace work overtime, increasing energy costs. 
• Wear on Furnace Parts: Filters in need of a change fail to trap debris, causing more frequent wear and damage to the other components on your furnace as well. 
• Frequent System Shut-Offs: Furnaces that suffer from poor airflow can lead to overheating and eventual shut-offs. 
• Excess Dust and Pet Hair: If you’re noticing more pet hair and dust around your home than normal, your filter might need a replacement. 
• Uneven Heating/Cooling: If the temperature seems significantly different between rooms in your home, this could be due to airflow problems from a dirty filter. 

How to Replace Your Furnace Filter

Dealing with the issues caused by a dirty furnace filter can be frustrating, but fortunately, replacing the filter is a simple task that brings great benefits. If you’d prefer expert assistance, Total Comfort is here to help with furnace filter repair and installation services.

Before you begin, ensure that you have the right filter for your furnace system.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to the furnace filter replacement process:

1. The first step is to find the filter, usually found in the blower compartment of the furnace or in the ductwork leading to the furnace. 
2. Next, you must turn off your furnace system. Look for the cut-off switch on the thermostat’s settings or for the switch on the outside of the main furnace cabinet (this one looks like a light switch). 
3. Now, access the current filter by removing the blower cabinet door or duct-mounted access panel. 
4. Before removing the filter, check the airflow direction to make sure that the air flows from the ductwork to the furnace. This is usually printed on the side. If you’re uncertain about the correct replacement size, most manufacturers list the filter dimensions on the side of the filter.
5. Next, remove the filter carefully, keeping in mind that depending on how long it has been since a replacement, there could be quite a buildup of dust and debris. 
6. Now you’re ready to install the new filter. To ensure the new filter works properly right away, ensure that the airflow arrows are pointing in the same direction as the filter you are replacing.
7. Put the blower cabinet cover or access panel back on. 
8. Lastly, restore power to the system, and your new filter is ready!

FAQ

Contact a Professional For Help Replacing a Furnace Filter

At Total Comfort, we understand the importance of a well-maintained furnace for your home’s comfort. Let us help you keep your system running smoothly with professional furnace filter replacement and maintenance. Visit our Furnace Services page today to schedule your service and ensure your home stays cozy and clean year-round!