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Remembering to change the filter on your forced-air heating and cooling system is probably not at the top of your list of priorities. However, this small but important component can actually have a very big impact of the quality of the air in your home, how efficiently your system runs and even how much it costs you to use. Staying on top of furnace maintenance can improve many of these problems, saving you time and money in the long run and extending the life of your furnace. Germs Air filters are a popular place for harmful bacteria, mold and viruses to take up residence. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to see it when they do. However, you may experience discomfort or even illness like a sinus headache or cold, especially during the cold winter months when air can get dry. Adding a humidifier, which inserts a certain level of moisture into the air, can help but won’t get to the root of the problem as the bacteria or viruses can still circulate throughout your system. According to the EPA, filters should be changed at least once every three months but changing it monthly in high use seasons such as winter and summer is best. If you or someone in your family has allergies, investing in a HEPA filter may also be a good idea. Obstruction If your furnace were to run without a filter, your home would be covered in dirt, dust and germs within a very short time. Imagining this and you can begin to understand just how much work this relatively small piece of equipment really does. A filter that hasn’t been changed in more than three months can build up a significant amount of debris. Given enough time and use, an obstruction can occur, making it difficult for your system to function properly. Rooms that don’t properly warm or cool when you turn your system on can be a symptom of this. When the problem is particularly bad, mechanical problems can arise, resulting in time-consuming maintenance and costly replacement parts. Costs Being vigilant about changing your system’s filter can also reduce your heating and cooling bill. A forced air system with an obstructed filter, be it by dirt, dust or debris, is unlikely to function efficiently. The harder your system has to work, the more energy it uses, which means a higher fuel bill for you. If you frequently find yourself turning up the heat or air, even when you know it’s set to a reasonable temperature, you probably have a system that is working overtime. The convenience of in-home heating and cooling makes it easy to forget that these appliances require care just like any other machine. Once you get into the habit of checking and changing your filter as needed, you’ll be amazed by the improvement in air quality, increased system efficiency and amount of money you save. Most importantly, you’ll be able to enjoy your system for many years to come.
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