When do i change my furnace filter

I checked the filter and found it caked with dust, so I replaced it with a new filter, and the indoor air is much fresher now. Are there any guidelines for how often a furnace filter should be changed?

A: As you discovered, a clean furnace filter makes a big difference in air quality. Filters are designed to trap dust and airborne particles as air is drawn through the filter and into the furnace system. Depending on your lifestyle and the type of furnace filter you choose, you may want to swap it out more often. Several factors should be considered when deciding how often to change a furnace filter, and many filter manufacturers recommend how often their product should be replaced.

No two homes are the same, so despite guidelines, you may need to change your furnace filter more often than your neighbor does. If your furniture gets dusty soon after housecleaning, the furnace filter could be clogged and is no longer effectively removing dust from the air.

You may also notice that your furnace runs more than usual. The old filter will be dirty, so have a large trash bag ready. Used furnace filters can be discarded along with your regular trash. Then, insert the replacement filter into the empty slot, and mark your calendar for the next switch. Marking your calendar every 90 days or trying to remember the last time you changed the filter can be challenging, so many furnace manufacturers recommend replacement at the start of each new season.

If you live in a temperate region, such as the Southwest, you may only run your furnace a handful of times during winter, and the standard day guideline might be perfect for you. Filters are given a minimum efficiency reporting value MERV , which ranges from 1 to 16, although ratings of 6 through 12 are best for residential furnaces.

For maximum safety, disconnect power from your furnace system while you are doing maintenance. Can you run a furnace without a filter? If you run a furnace without a filter for one night, it won't affect your HVAC system detrimentally. However, the longer you run your heating system without an air filter, the more contaminants accumulate inside your heating unit inner mechanisms. Can a dirty furnace filter cause a fire?

Risk of a Ventilation Fire In extreme cases, a dirty air filter may become so clogged that the filter itself becomes sucked into the system, compromising air flow through the filter. This situation poses a serious fire hazard and can cause extreme damage to your HVAC unit and your home. How often should you clean furnace? A good rule-of-thumb is to change your filters every two to three months and to have the furnace fully cleaned once a year.

The best time to clean your gas furnace is during the warmer months where you do not need to heat your home. How dirty should an air filter look? Air filter appears dirty If your air filter is brand new, it will look white or off-white.

Over time, as it accumulates dust and dirt, it will turn darker in color. If you think your air filter is dirty and may need replacing, visit your local service center to have it checked and replaced. What turns your furnace filter black? Carbon monoxide: This odorless, invisible gas is the byproduct of incomplete combustion and can cause soot deposits on your furnace filter. This can transfer to the dirt and dust collected on the furnace. If left wet long enough, black, sooty mold can begin to grow and spread to the furnace filter.

What happens if I don't change my furnace filter? You agree that BobVila. All rights reserved. Expert advice from Bob Vila, the most trusted name in home improvement, home remodeling, home repair, and DIY. Major Systems Change Filters Frequently to Optimize Furnace Efficiency Find out how to keep your air clean, your appliances running efficiently, and your energy bills down all in one go. It might be time to call a pro.

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