Keeping your home air filter clean is essential for maintaining the efficiency of your heating and cooling system. Not only does it improve the air quality inside your house, but it also helps to reduce the workload of your furnace or air conditioner. ENERGY STAR experts recommend changing your air filter every three months to ensure that the air flow is not blocked by dirt and debris. The filter should have a Minimum Efficiency Report Value (MERV) rating that determines the size and type of contaminants it can trap.
Regular HVAC maintenance, including replacing air filters, can help extend the life of your unit. As air passes through the HVAC system, air filters trap and collect large and small particles, such as dust, allergens, and microorganisms. When a filter is full of these particles, they will remain in the air in your home. By making sure that your air filters are in good condition and free of excessive dust and debris, you can avoid costly repairs to your heating and cooling system.
Clean air filters not only improve the air quality in your home, but also increase energy efficiency. It is recommended that homeowners change their air filters every one to three months, depending on the amount of dust and dirt in the air. Air filters are usually made of spun fiberglass or pleated paper & framed with cardboard for added stability and rigidity. If you have multiple pets that shed hair, be sure to change the filter more often as pet hair can fill a filter quickly. When a filter is clogged with dirt and debris, it prevents air from circulating through the vents, resulting in uneven temperatures or temperatures that don't match your thermostat.
Filters with higher MERV ratings are more effective at trapping small particles than those with lower ratings. A dirty filter is one of the most common causes of breakdowns in heating and cooling systems, so it's important to make sure you change your air filter regularly. By replacing your home air filter regularly, you can reduce wear and tear on your air conditioner while allowing free air circulation for greater indoor comfort. Clean filters not only improve the air inside a house, but also increase the efficiency of your oven. Make sure you listen to your HVAC technician's advice on how to change your air filter - it's an important part of keeping your home comfortable and energy efficient.
