11/13/2020
for you.
Changing your filter on time saves you money and keeps the air in your home clean. Mainly, it ensures the efficient operation of your furnace, and proper care for the $3,500 high-efficiency one you just bought.
According to the Department of , a clogged filter can be costing you 5% to 15% more on your energy bill each month - saving a few bucks a month may not seem like a big deal, but here is what you might not be considering:
1. A clogged filter puts extra wear on your equipment - particularly the blower motor. Replacing one of these bad boys can cost you anywhere from $300 to $1,500.
2. A clogged filter causes your heating equipment to overheat and shut down frequently - called Short Cycling. This will reduce the lifetime of your heating equipment.
3. A clogged filter will make you uncomfortable in your own home. Your furnace will not heat up your home properly, and It will increase the amount of dust in your rooms.
Manufacturers recommend swapping out filters every 2-3 months to maintain both the of your heating equipment and your home’s . This is just an industry rule-of-thumb. In reality, it depends on your actual usage and factors such as:
1. If you have pets
2. If you’ve had your ducts cleaned in past 2-3 years
3. If you’re allergic to dust or have seasonal allergies
Depending on your situation, you may perhaps need to change your filter every 1-2 months or maybe less frequently at 4-6 months. Knowing this information can also help you identify what type and brand of filter to buy - a topic for another day.
Either way, changing your filter on time is one of the simplest but most important maintenances you can do yourself to avoid costly breakdowns of your equipment.