You will want to keep your home nice and warm during the remaining colder months. One way to do this is to have the furnace system maintained on a regular basis. This way the parts and components can operate efficiently when it runs. Between visits it is important to notice anything that might be out of the norm. This would include any odd noises or smells you notice. Also make sure to check the air filter regularly. Change the filter before it becomes clogged. If you are unsure how often that should be, you can contact us and we can advise you the proper schedule. Having a clean filter helps the overall performance of the furnace, improves the air quality, and will help to lower monthly energy bills. This is true whether your system is a combined heating and cooling system, or one that just provides heat. If your system has a clogged air filter, its efficiency will be affected, and changing the filter will rectify that problem.

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A Clogged Filter can Reduce the Life of the Furnace

In addition, a clogged air filter means the system has to work harder, and this puts extra stress on the parts within the system. That extra stress will reduce the life of the parts. If the system comes under too much stress, it may fail completely, resulting in costly repair fees. However, changing the air filter is not simply a matter of economics. If your system pumps air through your home, failure to check your air filter’s condition could mean you and other residents are in danger of becoming ill.

Know which Filter to Use

The different types of filters used in HVAC or warm air heating systems remove many impurities from the air, improving the air quality in the process. Impure air can carry many pollutants such as pollen and excessive dust, both of which can affect the health of vulnerable people. If the filters are damp, this may lead to the growth of fungi or molds. The spores of these organisms will then be circulated with the air. Inhaling these spores is a known health risk.

Remember to Change the Air Filter

Even if your filter seems to be clean, you should still replace it at the intervals your manufacturer has recommended. You may think that you are saving a few cents by using a filter until it is visibly dirty, but this is a false economy, as you will be actually paying more on fuel used when the system is not running at maximum efficiency. There are many types of filters available, and you need to replace old ones with the same type. Again, your manual will tell you which ones are recommended for your system. Using the wrong type can damage your system, or cause it to work less efficiently. You can also contact us and we can recommend what air filter is best for your furnace and home.