How Often Should I Change My Furnace Filter in Fredericksburg, VA?
As winter settles into Fredericksburg, homeowners prepare for the upcoming season. From digging out those extra fuzzy blankets to unpacking seasonal flannels, getting ready for the temperature dip is an annual undertaking. But blankets and flannels aside, there's another essential element that helps lock in warmth—your furnace!
Once winter arrives, your furnace becomes one of the hardest-working systems in your home. To keep it running efficiently, you should practice regular maintenance. And while a professional tune-up is key to system longevity, there is one thing you can always do yourself—change your furnace filter.
Furnace Filters 101: What You Need to Know
If you're a novice homeowner, you might wonder what a furnace filter is, why it matters, and how often you should change it. Here are some basic facts you should know.
First, your furnace filter is your first defense against dander, pollen, dust, bacteria, and other pollutants. It helps prevent all those nasty contaminants from entering your heating system and boost your indoor air quality. Changing it regularly will help keep your furnace running smoothly and efficiently all winter.
How Often Should You Change Your Furnace Filter in the Winter?
That's a great question, and one our customers ask us quite frequently. As a rule, we recommend changing your air filters at least every three months (or once every season).
Of course, other scenarios may require you to change yours more often. For instance, households with pets, allergy sufferers, or high dust accumulations may need monthly replacements. Since you will increase your furnace use in the wintertime, you'll want to keep tabs on it. Always check your manufacturer's guidelines for recommendations.
How Do I Know When My Furnace Filter Needs to Be Replaced?
It is easy to know when to change your furnace filters. The easiest way to remember is by setting a three-month calendar alert as a reminder. But if you do forget, there will be signs.
These may include:
- Excessive dust buildup on furniture shortly after cleaning
- The furnace is running longer than usual to heat your home
- Visible dirt or discoloration on the filter itself
If you don't change your filters regularly, you may notice both short- and long-term effects on your system, including:
- Reduced airflow—your furnace will work harder than it should
- Less efficient heating—could lead to higher energy bills
- Increased wear and tear on furnace components
- Risk of system overheating or shutting down
- Poor indoor air quality—may lead to health issues for your family
Where Is My Furnace Filter Located?
Are you new to homeownership and wondering where your furnace filter is located? No worries. We're here to help.
Here's a basic step-by-step guide on how to change your furnace filter.
- Locate your furnace. Typically, it's in the garage, basement, attic, or closet.
- Look for a compartment on the furnace. It will be about a one to four-inch slot. This is where the filter slides in and out.
- Look for a panel or door. Open the door to remove the air filter and replace it with a fresh one.
- Be sure the filter is inserted correctly. Close the panel/door.
Pro Tip: Most air filters have an arrow indicating the correct direction the furnace filter should go. Insert the filter according to the arrow's direction. You might also write the date you switched the filter on it with a marker—just as a reminder. For more in-depth instructions, refer to your owner's manual.
What is the correct type of furnace filter for your system?
Your owner's manual or HVAC technician can recommend the best furnace filter for your system. But in general, there are different types made from various materials. The most common include:
- HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters
- Fiberglass filters (disposable)
- Pleated filters
- Electrostatic filters
- Carbon filters
- Reusable/washable
The Key to an Efficient Furnace Is the Filter Changing
Remember, regular furnace filter replacement during winter may help lower your energy bills, improve your indoor air quality, and lengthen the lifespan of your system. If you ever need professional assistance, the team at Total Comfort is happy to assist.
Call us today at 540-368-6174 to schedule your next appointment!