Filters play a crucial role in heating equipment, so replacing them is just as important as replacing a cracked heat exchanger. You can keep your furnace from overworking by changing the filter regularly. To determine when you should handle this maintenance task, take the following factors into account.
Opening Windows and Doors Frequently
Each time you open a window or a door, fresh air isn’t the only thing that enters your home. You’re also letting in dust and other airborne contaminants. These floating particles will eventually cover the furnace’s air filter. For this reason, it’s best to change the filter monthly if it’s a standard one- or two-inch size. Thicker filters will likely be due for replacement every two to three months.
Living With Pets
When furry pets shake and shed their hair, they add to the problem that you’re dealing with. The loose fur and dander will find a way inside your furnace. Just like your furniture, the filter will collect the fur and dander and whatever else is present. Therefore, change the filter sooner rather than later if you have a couple of hairy pets living in your home. Thinner filters may actually require changing more often than once a month if your pet sheds a significant amount. The thicker ones won’t get clogged as fast, so they should last somewhat longer.
Other Prime Factors
Are there any smokers in the household? Be aware that tobacco smoke contains more than 7,000 chemicals, and the smoke creates a coat that sticks to the filter. When you turn the internal fan on, the chemicals collected in the furnace will spread throughout the indoor environment. You can prevent this from happening by changing the dirty filter whenever it shows signs of excessive use. If you suffer from allergies, you may want to do it more frequently than once a month.
Real Time Bros Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help you take care of your furnace in Garden Grove. Our certified technicians are highly skilled at tackling comprehensive heating maintenance, and they can work with all makes and models. Plus, our experts can handle both heating and cooling equipment. Call our top-rated company today to schedule tune-ups, repairs or installations.
