A furnace filter’s main purpose is to protect all the vital components inside your furnace. It traps dust, pollen, mold spores, and other contaminants that may cause problems with your HVAC system. Furnace filters also help to improve the air quality throughout your home. Without a furnace filter, not only do you risk costly repairs to your HVAC system, but you would be breathing in all those nasty particles in the air — yuck!
How Often A Furnace Filter Needs To Be Replaced
The key thing to remember is that the average furnace filter should be replaced at least once every month. There are some factors you may want to take into consideration regarding which filter you choose, such as the furnace system type, number of people and pets in the home, and the manufacturer’s guidelines. There are a few different types of filters you can choose from, depending on your specific equipment.
Here’s a few quick tips to get you started!
Choosing A Furnace Filter: MERV Ratings
When you’re looking for an upgraded air filter for your HVAC system, one thing you’ll want to look at is the MERV rating. The MERV rating is an indicator of how well the filter performs at filtering particulates. It also affects the density of the filter, which can in turn affect the efficiency and airflow of your system.
Different Types Of Furnace Filters
While looking online or at the store for furnace filters, it’s easy to get a bit confused with all the various options. Knowing the difference between the types of furnace filters can help you determine what will be best for your furnace system, home, and family.
Fortunately, there are a few “common” types of filters. A few of these are pleated filters, electrostatic filters, and HEPA filters. We often recommend a basic pleated filter, which can be adequate for most average systems. These types of furnace filters are affordable and barely restrict airflow. It is important to change this type of filter at least every month.
Some of the more expensive filters may cause your furnace to work harder than it needs to by restricting airflow throughout your HVAC system. This may lead to your unit needing costly repairs down the road. However, depending on your needs, you may benefit from upgrading to a different type of filter. (Our technicians would be happy to help advise you when they are out for service at your home.)
Ways To Remember To Change Your Furnace Filter
A few easy ways you can remember to change your furnace filter is to mark the date of when it was last changed on the label of the furnace filter, by setting a monthly reminder on your cell phone, or by writing the next due date on a calendar.
If you want to learn more or schedule maintenance to keep your furnace running great — call G&R today at (224) 419-5324 or contact us online.
