Furnace filters are not usually the first thing we think of home maintenance, however, they play a crucial role in keeping our homes comfortable and healthy by maintaining airflow and trapping airborne pollutants. The article addresses some important dimensions of furnace filters, including why they are important, how they are classified, how to maintain them, energy efficiency ratings and common problems. In this regard, the article seeks to highlight the key dimensions that will give readers better insight into the use of furnace filters, and make informed decision to increase the lifespan of their furnace, improve air quality and save money on energy bills.
Table of Contents:
– The importance of furnace filters
– Different types of furnace filters
– How to maintain your furnace filter
– Understanding furnace filter efficiency ratings
– Common issues with furnace filters
The importance of furnace filters:
Furnace filters are not just parts of your heating system. They are your first defence against pollutants recirculating in your home. Furnace filters capture airborne dust, pollen and other particles, not only to keep the inner workings of your furnace clean, but to keep your air clean too. Change or clean your furnace filter regularly to keep your furnace free of contaminants and to keep it running efficiently and for a long time to come.
Different types of furnace filters:
With so many furnace filters to choose from, it’s not surprising that navigating the waters of filter types can be a little confusing. There are disposable fibreglass filters that are inexpensive, but only filter the largest of particles. At the other end of the spectrum, there are high-efficiency particulate air, or HEPA, filters that will grab even the smallest particles. So what are the differences and why should you, the consumer, care? Ultimately, you need to balance what type of filter your furnace can handle against what your home’s air needs.
How to maintain your furnace filter:
The most important maintenance you can do is to check your filter frequently (every month or two, or more often, depending on what type of filter you have and your household’s particular needs). You want to make sure the furnace filter is not clogged with dirt, which can block the flow of air and make the furnace work harder, wasting energy and potentially shortening its life. The filter may need to be cleaned or replaced when it accumulates debris.
Understanding furnace filter efficiency ratings:
Efficiency ratings such as the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) tell you the capacity of a filter to remove particles of various sizes. The higher the MERV rating, the better the filtration for small particles and the better the filtration of your air. Find a balance between your goal of good filtration and your system’s requirements, which depends on the airflow your furnace and ductwork can handle without overstraining your system. An expert can advise you on finding a filter with high enough efficiency to match your air quality goals but with enough airflow to fit your furnace.
Common issues with furnace filters:
Though they’re inexpensive and easy to replace, furnace filters can be the source of common problems if not managed properly. One that’s too restrictive can reduce air flow and lead to reduced efficiency and possible damage to the furnace. On the other hand, a filter with a low efficiency rating can allow pollutants into the air you breathe. Awareness of these problems is the first step in preventing them, and will ensure your furnace works smoothly and effectively.
Conclusion:
Since your home’s furnace is a major sports participant in heating your home, and the air is blown directly over the filter before entering your home, keeping your furnace filter in good shape has two direct influences on your home. One is that a dirty filter makes your furnace less efficient and another is that it is directly responsible for the quality of the air you and your family breathe. Appreciating what a furnace filter does and how to work with them can lead to better home comfort and better health for you and your family. Paying attention to your furnace filter is a small but valuable step in curating the comfort of your home.
