How Often Should I Change My Home’s Furnace Filter?

Regular maintenance is the best way to keep the furnace in your Rio Rico, Arizona, home furnace working the way it should. In addition to scheduling occasional tune-ups with your service professional, be sure to regularly change your furnace filter. Find out how often you need to swap out the filter in your furnace and why this maintenance task is so important.

Why Change Your Filter?

Changing your furnace filter on a regular basis can optimize performance and protect your furnace from long-term damage. Your filter keeps debris and dirt out of your furnace, both of which can hamper its functioning and possibly cause damage to the moving parts. A clean filter also promotes airflow in your system, reducing strain on your furnace and making your home more comfortable.

How Often Should You Change Your Filter?

The rule of thumb that most people follow when it comes to furnace filters is to replace the filter every 30 days. You may, however, need to change filters more or less frequently depending on several factors.

Filter Lifespan

Inexpensive fiberglass filters tend to have a shorter lifespan and probably should be replaced once a month. High-quality pleated filters can sometimes go as long as six months without needing to be replaced.

Indoor Air Quality

Your family’s respiratory health can impact how often you change your filter. If someone in your family is dealing with asthma, for example, you may want to change your filter every month and a half to keep dust out of the air. This is true even if you have a high-quality filter.

Clogged Filter

Checking the filter for dirt buildup will let you know when it’s time for a change. If your filter appears to be clogged, it’s time to install a new filter so your furnace stays up and running.

If you need help with regular furnace maintenance, call Oasis Air Conditioning & Heating today at (520) 648-1755. One of our techs can change your filter and give your furnace a tune-up so it runs the way it should.

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