Winter is right around the corner, which means your furnace will be working overtime pretty soon. If you do not care for your furnace, it can cause problems to occur, usually in the dead of winter! A simple thing homeowners can do is change the furnace filter. If you are like most homeowners, you likely haven’t taken the time to change your furnace filter in awhile. Changing or cleaning a furnace filter will prevent possible malfunctions, and keeps your furnace working to its optimal level. If dust and other contaminants start to build up on the furnace blades, it can lead to serious damage of the motor.
Filter Types
How do you select the right filter?
Most homeowners see disposable pleated furnace filters in the store and assume that is the best option for their home. Pleated filters are not always the best option for homeowners as they do the job of protecting the motor by filtering out the dust, but they are prone to blockages if they are not changed.
Disposable fiberglass filters are cheap, but need to be replaced monthly. The fiberglass filters have a spider-web like appearance and they are quite flimsy.
Newer furnaces often come with permanent reusable filters. The reusable filters are constructed with solid aluminum or plastic frames and they are generally more efficient than disposable filters. The great aspect about the reusable filters is that they generally last 5 years as long as you clean them every 90 days. The filters can be cleaned by vacuuming them or cleaning them with water.
How to Replace Your Furnace Filter
How do you replace the furnace filter? Most HVAC companies will show you where the filter is when they install a new furnace in your home. It is important to remember to turn off the furnace when you are changing the filter. Open the filter compartment door and carefully slide out the old filter. Gently slide the new filter in place, turn the power back on, and your furnace is ready to go!
Do a visual inspection of the furnace when you have the filter removed. Check for signs of dust on the fans or hair around the filter opening. Vacuum this area to remove debris that could get caught on the motor blades. It is important to install the air filter in the correct position. There is an arrow on the air filter that will show you the direction of the airflow. The arrow must face the furnace side of the compartment to ensure it is working correctly.
Call Genuine Comfort today to schedule your winter furnace checkup before the cold air hits!
Leave a Reply