Furnace problems always seem to pop up at the worst possible times — usually when the temperatures drop and you need your system the most. One of the most common causes? A clogged furnace filter. It’s a small, often overlooked component but can lead to more extensive and expensive HVAC issues when neglected. It may seem impossible that a $10 to $60 filter could make or break a furnace worth over $3,000, so let’s look at how it all works.
Problems & After Effects Caused by Clogged Filters
Your furnace filter is crucial in keeping your HVAC system running smoothly. As your system draws in air, that air first passes through the filter, which helps protect your furnace by trapping dust, debris, and other particles. Over time, HVAC filters naturally become clogged due to the regular dust, lint, and debris found in every home. Pet dander, construction dust, and even smoke from cooking smoke can add to the buildup.
Imagine drinking a smoothie through a straw to understand how a clogged filter impacts your furnace. Now imagine that a chunk of fruit gets stuck in that straw. Just as you’d have to work much harder to drink your smoothie, your furnace must work much harder to draw in air through a clogged filter. This reduces your system’s efficiency, resulting in higher energy bills and increased wear and tear.
Overworking your furnace can also cause it to overheat, which may eventually lead to repairs or a complete system breakdown. Over time, operating with a clogged filter can reduce the lifespan of your unit, requiring you to replace it sooner.
How & When To Replace Filters in Your Furnace
It’s crucial to replace the filter regularly to keep your furnace running efficiently and your home’s air clean. Changing the filter every one to three months is recommended for most homes, but this can vary depending on factors like the number of people in the house, whether you have pets, or if there’s been recent construction.
Replacing a filter is simple. You should always check your HVAC system’s user manual for details, but it usually involves removing the old filter and sliding the new one into place. Always ensure that the arrows on the new filter align with the airflow direction for proper installation.
Importance of Maintaining Your Furnace: Tips
By maintaining a clean and well-functioning furnace, you can prevent common HVAC issues, save on repairs, and extend the lifespan of your system. Follow these simple steps to keep your HVAC system in top shape:
- Change the filter regularly: Consider putting a reminder on your calendar or phone to change your filters every one to three months.
- Schedule annual furnace maintenance: Having a professional inspect and service your furnace yearly can prevent unexpected breakdowns.
- Keep vents and registers clean: Dust and debris buildup can restrict airflow, so keep these areas free of blockages.
- Keep your home clean: Regular vacuuming and wiping down surfaces can prevent extra dust, pet dander, and debris from entering your home’s air and clogging your filters.
Schedule Furnace Services With Home Comfort Today
Maintaining your furnace and addressing issues promptly will help it run smoothly, keeping your home comfortable all winter. Home Comfort offers comprehensive furnace services with upfront pricing and discounts for military, veterans, and seniors.
Our friendly, licensed, and insured technicians are highly trained to provide the best service possible. Schedule your furnace service today and discover why so many neighbors have trusted Home Comfort for their heating and cooling needs since 1998!
Contact us to schedule expert furnace services with Home Comfort in Northwest Chicagoland!
