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Home Maintenance Tip #1: Furnace Filters

JT's Carpet Cleaning Provides Cleaning Services in Overland Park, Kansas City, Shawnee, Liberty, and Olathe
Published by in Air Duct Cleaning · 15 August 2021
Tags: FurnaceFiltersDuctCleaningHVACMaintenance
Changing Furnace Filters


Why Change My Filter?
As you may have guessed by the title, today's post is all about furnace filters-how to change them, hw to select your replacement, and why you should change them.  This simple home maintence tip can save you money over the course of time for several reasons so without further ado, let's get into it!
  • Energy Efficiency-Dirty filters can cause your furnace to short cycle causing an increase in energy consumption, and also wear out the components of your HVAC system to the point costly repairs are needed.
  • Allergens-Clogged or dirty filters are less effective at removing allergens from the air circulating in your home causing you to inhale unwanted dust, allergens, even dander and pollen.  Clean filters reduce this problem.
  • Air Flow-Just like you need to breathe, so does your furnace.  When the air filter is clogged it can create numerous issues including overheated components.  In some cases, it can even wear out critical safety components designed to keep your furnace from operating in dangerous conditions.  While in many cases this happens with safety as the default, so your heating system will not work, it can still be frustrating especially in cold weather.  
Cooling Efficiency-While above we are focused on the affect a dirty filter has on your heating system, it can also affect your home's HVAC systems ability to cool as well.  Clogged filters cause your home not to cool down as well as it should and the system runs more often than it should and creates a bigger drain on the energy grid.  

How Do I Choose A Filter?
Most HVAC systems have a label specifying the type and size of filter required for the system.  In some cases you may need to do a quick web search using the make and model of the HVAC system to find the appropriate filter.  Most big box retailers carry furnace filters and in a variety of materials and sizes.  This can be great for most homeowners, but if you're in doubt you can always call an HVAC repair technician.  If you are new to the home, this may be a good idea anyway because the technician can check for safety issues like carbon monoxide leaks, proper wiring and venting, and any possible senor malfunctions or fuel leaks.  They can also show you how to properly change the filter out for your system and let you know how to replace any covers properly as most units will not work if covers are not correctly put back in place.
It is also a good idea to periodically have your home's air ducts cleaned out by a professional cleaning service like JT's Carpet Cleaning.  We offer free video air duct inspections so you can see if you actually need the cleaning or not before committing to it.  A typical cleaning usually runs between $350-$550 depending on size of the home, labor required, and ease of access to ducts.  It's recommended to have this service performed at least once a year, or more often in homes with pets, smokers, or damp conditions.  Steam and reverse airflow remove dirt, debris, pollen, dander, and allergens from the ducts so your filter gets clogged less and your system breathes better.  This can help improve your systems effiency and redue the frequency you need to change the furnace filters out as the cleaning usually removes months to years of dirt and debris from the system.  

Important Notes:  HVAC systems can have dangerous electrical wires and sharp components. Always disconnect power from your HVAC system before attempting any type of service or maintenance to prevent injury.  If you are unsure about your ability to safely change the filter or access it, call out a licensed HVAC repair technician so it can be done safely and properly. Never risk your safety or that of others to save a couple of bucks!  

How Often Should I Change My Filter?
A good rule of thumb on this is 30-60 days.  Some homes may need more frequent changes if you have pets, smokers, damp conditions, or other things that create poor air quality in the home.  The type of filter being used may also dictate how often you need to change it.  Remember, many of the things the filter is designed to trap are microscopic and may not be visible to the naked eye, so you may still want to replace a filter that still looks clean if it has been in place for a prolonged amount of time. As always consult a professional in matters concerning safety.  If you notice a soaking wet filter, evidence of charring, etc. this is a strong indicator something is wrong and the system should be disconnected from power and checked out by a professional.  It's also a good idea to check your vents for obstructions and to ensure the return air vent isn't obstructed to let the system work its best.  




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