How often should I change my heating system's filter?

Regularly changing your heating system’s filter will extend the life of your HVAC system and protect it from contaminants. This is one of the most important maintenance tasks for your HVAC system. Failure to change your filter regularly could result in higher energy bills, increased wear and tear on your HVAC system, and even reduced indoor air quality. Depending on your climate, you should change your filter every two to three months. Changing your HVAC filter will not only extend the life of your system, but it will also improve the quality of the air you and your family breathe by trapping allergens and other contaminants. There are multiple ways to determine when it’s time to change your filter. Here are some simple tips to help you remember when it’s time to change your HVAC filter again.

Check the Airflow

The first thing to do when you notice that your filter is looking a little dirty is to check the airflow. You can do this by turning off the fan on your filter and blowing across the filter. If it’s difficult to move the air, then the filter is clogged and needs to be replaced. If you have a programmable thermostat, make sure to change your filter before you set the temperature to avoid a costly repair. You can also check the filter by dipping it into a bucket of water. If the water runs clear, then the filter is clean and ready for use.

Change the Air Filter

After you’ve determined that your filter needs to be replaced, there are a few ways to change it. If you have a removable filter, simply take it off and throw it away. If you have a permanent filter, you can remove it by unscrewing the filter housing and pulling out the filter. Once you’ve removed the filter, replace it with a new one. There are different types of HVAC filters, so make sure to choose the correct one for your system. There are two types of HVAC filters: mechanical and electronic.

Mechanical HVAC Filter

A mechanical HVAC filter is made of either polyester or fiberglass and is typically located in the outdoor cabinet on the side of your HVAC unit. This filter traps large debris, such as leaves and other small particles, and is a good choice for most homes. A mechanical filter should be changed every two to three months.Electronic HVAC FilterThere are two types of electronic HVAC filters: activated carbon filters and UV light filters.Activated Carbon FilterAn activated carbon filter is designed to remove chemicals, gases, and odors from the air. These filters should be changed every one to three months.UV Light FilterUV light filters are used to remove mold, mildew, and bacteria from the air. These filters should be changed every six months.

Conclusion

Frequently Asked Question

How often should a residential HVAC system be serv

We recommend service be performed once a year at a minimum, especially before winter. Some people have their HVAC units serviced spring and fall to prepare for the coming heat of summer or in the fall to prepare for winter. Proper maintenance will prolong the life of your HVAC unit.

How should I set my heat in the winter?

When Home: 68-70 degrees Fahrenheit
When Sleeping: 65 degrees Fahrenheit
When You're Away: 65 degrees Fahrenheit
Adjust thermostat in 5-8 degree increments

How can I keep my house warm without central heati

Install a Wood Burning Stove
Utilize Fire in Fireplace and Block Chimney When Not in Use
Make Sure All Doors and Windows Are Properly Sealed
Cook often
Install Insulated Curtain Liners to Trap Heat
Allow as Much Sunlight to Hit Home as Possible via Landscaping

How can I heat my house more efficiently?

Use your curtains
Use timers on your central heating
Move your sofa
Maximise your insulation
Wrap up warm
Turn down the dial
Block out the draughts
Install thermostatic radiator valves

What is the most economical way to run heating?

According to experts at the Energy Saving Trust, the idea it's cheaper to leave the heating on low all day is a myth. They're clear that having the heating on only when you need it is, in the long run, the best way to save energy, and therefore money. You will also want to have someone perform regular heating maintenance on your system at least once a year.

Is it better to keep heat on low or turn off?

Turning the heat down eliminates these issues, while still reducing the amount of energy you use. You can save 10% off of your heating bill for every 10° you lower your thermostat.

How do people survive winter without heating?

Opt for Plug-In Energy Saving Electric Radiators.
Dry Clothes with a Heated Airer
Use Electric Blankets & Heated Throws
A Winter Duvet is a Must
Draught-Proof the Home
Insulate your home
Choose Carpets & Rugs Over Solid Floors

How can I make a homemade heater?

Put 3-4 candles on a tray and light them up.
Position two bricks on either side of the tray and two behind the tray
Take the ceramic bowl and put it upside down on the tray
Place the small fan on the bricks behind the tray
Turn on the fan, and your setup is complete

Is it cheaper to leave heat on all day?

In fact, leaving your heat on all day can actually cost you much more than turning it off every now and then. Heat tends to diffuse, so the high heat in your home will diffuse to areas of low heat outside the home during the winter. So even when you have your furnace on, your home is always losing a little bit of heat.

Is it cheaper to keep your house at one temperatu

Keeping your home at a constant temperature generally means that your heating system will run constantly to meet it. This means that your furnace or air conditioner may run when you're asleep, at work, or out of the house. This wastes more energy than the minimal amount that you might save by having it constantly run.

Does turning off radiators in unused rooms save m

As long as you close the doors so the cold air doesn't seep into the rest of the house, you will save money by turning off the radiators in unused rooms. By doing so, you'll prevent the water in the system from running through that particular radiator.