It took ten days--no, eleven--for our heater to get fixed. The circuit board had crapped out, and apparently the replacement part took its sweet time over here. When our repairman finally DID come back, he took one look at our furnace filter and gave us a scolding that we probably aren't going to forget for a long, long time. Did we know that we ought to have cleaned our filters once a month? Um, really? We thought it was a seasonal thing (not that we ever remembered to do it then either)...
Since that scolding, we've learned that a clean filter will keep our furnace happy and efficient--and even cut some of our energy bills. And after hosing off all the layers of caked dirt and dust on our filter, we are pleased to report that our heater is blowing 100% better than before it broke down.
For instructions on how to clean a furnace filter, check out this tutorial on eHow.
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Comments (8)
I thought you were just supposed to replace them every 3 months.
Not to mention, you'll have a lot less dust. That reminds me--I need to replace mine! Actually, there are "better" filters (ones from 3M) that you can replace every 3-4 months, at least according to the package.
Keeping the furnace filter clean will also make the air in your place much much cleaner -- substantially reducing the amount of dust and mold you are breathing. It's amazing the amount of crud that accumulates on a filter in just a month, let alone years ..
Ah. I see it depends on the kind of filter you have. The cardboard ones pictured should be replaced. Metal- or plastic-framed ones should be cleaned.
Even though the package might say it lasts 3-4 months, I'd really recommend checking up on it every 3-4 weeks. It's amazing how dirty they can get, and I imagine the 3-4 months is a "best case scenario" thing, like if your house is immaculately clean and pet free.
Definitely change them every 4-6 weeks. Your lungs will thank you, and the furnace will, too!
I replace mine every couple months, but I also look at it as I go along (it's right in my condo behind a door) to make sure it's not dirty earlier than that. I might try the ones that are supposed to last longer. Anyone know why they would last longer? Aren't they picking up the same amount of crud?
This year I had to replace my 30 year old furnace as part of the installation I had them add a high efficiency air filter. This was an expensive option but when I look at it am impressed with the level of filtration. 1st there is the standard electronic filter which uses static to capture particles but then comes the MACK DADDY hepa filter which super cleans the air passing through. I have a couple little hairy dogs and a cat who contribute greatly to the household air pollution. I suggest the highest quality filters available to improve your home environment.
There are some great websites out there to purchase furnace filters from along with some great resources to help you find the filters that best suite your needs, some of my favorites are http://www.rememberthefilter.com and http://www.furnacefiltersinc.com