When to Change Furnace Filters

It’s that time of year again – the trees are in bloom, the weather is getting warmer, and it’s time to change your house air filter! Air conditioner and furnace filters should be replaced every 3-6 months, depending on your type of filter and how often you use your hvac system. If you’re not sure when to change your filter, don’t worry – we’ll walk you through it!

There are three main types of furnace filters: disposable, permanent, and washable. Disposable filters should be replaced every three months. Permanent filters can last up to five years, but they need to be cleaned monthly. Washable filters should be washed every month and replaced every six months.

If you have a disposable filter, simply remove the old one and insert a new one in its place. Make sure the new filter is facing the correct direction (usually arrows on the side of the filter will show you which way it needs to go). If you have a permanent or washable filter, follow the instructions that came with your filter for how to clean or replace it.

There are a few things to consider when changing your AC or furnace filter:

• The type of filter you have – standard, pleated, or HEPA
• Now, consider how often you use your furnace. If you live in a cold climate and
• If you have pets or smoke in your home
• The size of your filter – 20x25x0.75, 16x24x0.75, etc.
• The MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating – the higher the MERV rating, the more efficient the filter is at trapping particles
• How often you use your hvac system
• Check your filter every month and write down the date.
• If you have a disposable filter, replace it every three months.
• If you have a reusable filter, clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Replace your filter if it starts to look dirty or clogged.

First, take a look at your filter. Most filters will have the manufacturer’s name and an expiration date printed on them. If there’s no expiration date, it’s probably time to replace it! If you’re not sure when to change your filter, don’t worry – we’ll walk you through it! Just follow these simple steps:

If you have an air conditioning filter:

1. Shut off the power to your AC unit at the breaker box.

2. Remove the filter by gently pulling it out of the slot.

3. Inspect the filter for damage or tears. If the filter is damaged, replace it with a new one.

4. Insert the new filter into the slot, making sure that the arrows on the filter are pointing in the correct direction.

5. Turn on the power to your AC unit and check to make sure that it’s running correctly.

If you have a furnace filter:

1. Shut off the power to your furnace at the breaker box.

2. Open up your furnace cabinet.

3. Remove the filter by gently pulling it out of the slot.

– If your furnace has more than one filter, make sure to replace them all at the same time.

– It’s also a good idea to vacuum out the inside of the furnace cabinet while you have it open.

– Be sure to wear gloves and a dust mask when handling or cleaning the filters, as they can be very dirty.

The type of furnace you have will also play a role in how often you need to replace your filters. If you have an oil furnace, for example, you’ll need to replace your filters more often than if you have a gas furnace. With a standard filter, it’s recommended that you change it every three months. If you have a pleated filter, you can change it every six months. And if you have a HEPA filter, you can change it every twelve months.

Video Below! Just for a comparison on what a clean furnace filter will look like vs a dirty one. This is our dirty one (on left!). Nice and black. This is what typically a one month old furnace filter will look like. Especially if you have kids and animals. Keeping your furnace clean will help you avoid furnace problems.

Vs. The nice bright, white and shiny (on the right!). This is what a new furnace filter should look like.  When you start to see it look like this, that means that the system is really struggling for airflow, and it’s time to change furnace filters.

Replacing your AC or furnace filter is an easy way to improve the air quality in your home and keep your HVAC system running efficiently. And that’s it! Just follow these simple steps and you’ll be well on your way to changing your AC or furnace filter like a pro! Patriot Pros provides expert furnace repair in and around Castle Rock, Colorado! We look forward to servicing your needs!