Table of Contents
In general, this is how often changing furnace filters needs to be done: For 1- to 2-inch filters, replace them every 1 to 3 months. For 3- to 4-inch filters, replace them every 6 to 9 months. For 5- to 6-inch filters, replace them every 9 to 12 months.
What happens if you dont change furnace filter?
Short Cycling If the air filter is not serviced often enough, it will eventually become clogged to the point that air cannot pass through it. When the furnace is operating, the lack of air flow will trap the heat in the system. Without a new air filter, the furnace will overheat every time it starts up again.
How often should you change your furnace filter in winter?
Professionals, like our team at Airco Service, Inc. say that you should change your air filter at least every three months. During the winter, when you rely on your heating system more, you want to increase that frequency. During the winter, when the system is in constant use, change it out every month.
Do furnace filters really last 3 months?
Generally, most air filter manufacturers and HVAC companies recommend changing your air filter every 90 days, or 3 months. That can change based on where your home is located (ex. dusty, dry climates), if you have any pets, and the age of your system and equipment.
Do I need to change my furnace filter every week?
As a general rule, you’ll want to replace pleated air filters and furnace filters in your home every 90 days. The longer the filter is in place, the more dirt, dust and allergens are trapped clogging the filter and decreasing their efficiency.
How much does it cost to replace a furnace filter?
Changing Your Furnace Filter Costs for new filters range based on brand but tend to be around $10 to $30. The filter keeps dust and dirt from your furnace components and improves your air quality. Some annual inspections will include changing and cleaning this part of the unit.
How long do furnace filters last?
Change Your Filters Regularly For example, a one inch furnace filter should be changed out every one to three months. A three to four-inch filter can last for six to nine months. If you have a thick five to six-inch filter, it can last from nine to twelve months.
How do I know if my furnace filter is dirty?
What Are the Symptoms of a Dirty Air Filter? Filter is a different color. Energy bills are higher than usual. Low air flow. Rise in physical issues. Headaches. Allergies. Carbon monoxide poisoning. Forces HVAC systems to work harder.
Why does my furnace filter get dirty so fast?
Leaky Duct Work According to ENERGY STAR, a typical house loses 20-30% of air through leaks in the duct work and poor duct connections. Leaving these untreated can not only kill your furnace filter quickly, but also result in higher energy bills.
Why are my air filters so dirty?
Ducts that have holes, gaps, or leaks should be sealed up properly to prevent good air from getting out and bad air from getting in. If there is a leak in the return air ducts, the dusty, dirty air from spaces like that attic or crawl space gets sucked up into the ducts, dirtying the air filter and causing clogging.
Are pleated filters better than fiberglass?
While fiberglass air filters will do the job in the most basic way, in most cases, pleated air filters are much better. They can filter out smaller particles – important for people with airborne sensitivities. They are less likely to clog in a short amount of time, and they can last up to 90 days.
How often should MERV 8 filters be changed?
The basic recommendation for furnace filters replacement is every 3-4 months for MERV 8, every 6 months MERV 10 and 11 and every year for MERV 16. There are other several factors to consider when determining when to change your home air filter.
How often should you clean furnace ducts?
Experts advise having your air ducts cleaned every 2 to 3 years to prevent many maintenance and health problems before they start. However, homes with pets or children with allergies should have their air ducts professionally cleaned more frequently than the recommended average.
What MERV rating air filter should I use?
In general, the best MERV rating for a home is somewhere between 8-10. These filters will capture a large portion of the airborne particles and improve indoor air quality without making your energy costs rise significantly.
Is a thicker furnace filter better?
The general best practice is to use the thickest air filter you can for maximum efficiency. Higher MERV ratings work best when the filter is 4” thick or thicker because they trap extremely small particles, which means contaminants will build up quickly on the screen.
What is the most reliable furnace brand?
Here they are, starting with this year’s top rated furnace brand. #1 Heil / ICP Brands. Quality. Warranty. #2 Goodman. Quality. Warranty. #3 Rheem / Ruud. Quality. Warranty. #4 Maytag. Quality. #5 Trane / American Standard. Quality. #6 Carrier / Bryant. Quality. #7 Armstrong / AirEase. Quality. #8 York / Johnson Controls. Quality.
Why are air filters so expensive now?
The Real Reason HEPA Filters Are So Expensive Put simply, it comes down to psychology and marketing. We buy HEPA filters and air purifiers to protect our health. Companies market and sell their HEPA filters with a higher price tag to make their filters look superior.
Is it cheaper to replace furnace and AC together?
Adding a furnace during your air conditioner replacement will cost a lot less, around $1,000 to $3,000. The only time it really makes sense to wait to replace your furnace is if it is less than 10 years old. This way, the furnace will most likely last until the next time your air conditioner needs to be replaced.
