Why Change Your Furnace Air Filter?
Before we dive into how to change furnace air filter, it’s important to understand why it’s necessary. The air filter in your furnace helps to remove dirt, dust, and other contaminants from the air that circulates through your home. Over time, the filter can become clogged with these particles, which can restrict airflow and force your furnace to work harder than necessary. This can lead to higher energy bills and potentially cause damage to your furnace over time. Changing your furnace air filter regularly can help prevent these issues.
How Often Should You Change Your Furnace Air Filter?
The frequency at which you should change your furnace air filter can vary based on a few factors, including the type of filter you have, the size of your home, and the presence of pets or allergies. As a general rule of thumb, it’s recommended to change your air filter every 1-3 months. If you have pets or allergies, you may need to change your filter more frequently.
How to Change Furnace Air Filter
Now that you understand why it’s important to change your furnace air filter and how often you should do so, let’s walk through the steps for how to change furnace air filter.
Step 1: Turn Off Your Furnace
Before you begin, turn off your furnace to ensure your safety. You can do this by locating the power switch on your furnace and turning it off.
Step 2: Locate Your Air Filter
The location of your furnace air filter can vary based on the type of furnace you have. In most cases, it will be located near the blower motor or in the return air duct. Check your furnace manual if you’re unsure where to find it.
Step 3: Remove the Old Air Filter
Once you’ve located your air filter, remove the old filter by pulling it out of its slot. Take note of the direction the filter is facing so you can install the new filter correctly.
Step 4: Insert the New Air Filter
Insert the new air filter into the slot, making sure it’s facing the correct direction. The filter should be snugly in place, but not so tight that it’s difficult to remove in the future.
Step 5: Turn Your Furnace Back On
After you’ve installed the new air filter, turn your furnace back on. Give it a few minutes to ensure that it’s running correctly.
FAQs about How to Change Furnace Air Filter
Q: How often should I change my furnace air filter?
A: As a general rule of thumb, it’s recommended to change your air filter every 1-3 months.
Q: What happens if I don’t change my furnace air filter?
A: If you don’t change your furnace air filter regularly, it can become clogged with dirt and dust, which can restrict airflow and force your furnace to work harder than necessary. This can lead to higher energy bills and potentially cause damage to your furnace over time.
Q: Can I clean my furnace air filter instead of replacing it?
A: While it’s possible to clean some types of furnace air filters, it’s generally recommended to replace them instead. Cleaning may not remove all of the contaminants from the filter, and it can also damage the filter if not done correctly.
Conclusion
Changing your furnace air filter is a simple and effective way to improve your indoor air quality and keep your furnace running efficiently. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily change your furnace air filter and enjoy the benefits of clean air and lower energy bills. Remember to change your air filter regularly to keep your furnace in tip-top shape.