Many people might not think about furnace maintenance or how often the air filter needs to be changed. However, your furnace provides your home with an important service, and these tasks are necessary for its daily function. Regularly changing out your air filters is one of the best ways to ensure your furnace continues to run smoothly and efficiently. The guide below breaks down what you need to know about filters and why they’re so important for your home. 

What Does a Furnace Filter Do? 

Your furnace takes in air, warms it, and circulates it back through your home. As the furnace takes in air, it also takes in the dust, pet fur, and other particulates in the air. The purpose of the filter is to gather and collect this debris before it can reach the blower fan. Not only does this protect the inner workings of your furnace from becoming clogged, but it also helps to keep the air in your home clean. 

How Often Should They Be Changed?

The standard timeframe for changing your air filters is three months, but how often you actually need to change them can vary from home to home. If someone in your home suffers from allergies, you should consider changing the filters every six weeks to ensure the best air quality possible. If you have pets in the home, you should change your filters every two months to prevent them from getting clogged with hair and dander. 

What Happens If They Aren’t Changed Regularly?

If your furnace filter isn’t changed regularly, it can become clogged. A clogged filter restricts airflow to the blower, putting a strain on the furnace. According to the Department of Energy, a clogged filter can cause your furnace to use up to 15 percent more energy than it normally would. This is a difference you’ll notice on your utility bill. A clogged filter won’t capture debris and dust from the air like a clean filter would, worsening the air quality in your home. Over time, as your system works harder to compensate for the clog, parts like the blower can eventually give out, leading to a complete system failure. 

The right filter for your furnace makes a big difference in your furnace’s performance and the air quality of your home. Dayton Reliable Air Filter in Dayton, OH, understands this better than anyone. They specialize in helping businesses and homeowners find the air filters for their furnace. We will help you select the best one.  For commercial and industrial accounts, we also offer an air filter replacement service so that you never have to worry about changing them out on time again. Visit their website to learn more about their products and services or call them today at (800) 699-0747.