Your furnace filter is one of the most important features of your heating unit. It protects the air in your home from dust and debris. This is why it’s important to change your filter regularly. Having a poor-performing filter can lead to additional problems with your furnace operation. Keep reading to learn more about how the furnace filter is an integral part of your heating system.
Are all furnaces equipped with filters?
Yes, all modern electric and gas furnaces and heating pumps have filters. It acts as a barrier to stop dust and debris from entering your home through return ducts. It also keeps the air in your HVAC system clean by preventing the recirculation of allergens.
It is important to know what kind of furnace filter you have on your unit. Some are designed to be disposable while others can be cleaned and reused. Check your filter regularly to ensure it is clean and not obstructed.
Turning on Your Furnace with a Dirty Filter
You can still run your furnace with a dirty filter, however, it will have an effect on the air quality in your home. If the airflow is impeded, then your furnace will likely shut down to prevent further problems from developing. It can also force your furnace to work harder, costing you money and creating an inefficient workflow.
If left too long, this can cause your exchanger to crack or overheat which will lead to more costs and damage. This is why it’s critical to replace your air filter regularly.
When to Change Filter
A furnace filter can become dirty based on use. So it’s important to take it out and have a good look at it on a regular basis. If the filter is still white, then it’s fine for a while longer. If your filter is dark or contains a lot of debris, then it’s time for a change.
Shine a flashlight at the filter to get a better idea of how clogged it might be. If you can’t see light on the other side, then it’s time to swap it for a new one. Industry recommendations suggest changing your furnace filter at least every 6 months to avoid serious maintenance issues.
Running Your Furnace Without a Filter
You can still run your furnace without a filter, but this is only recommended in emergency cases. Failing to keep your filter clean and well-maintained can lead to more serious issues such as:
- Poor air quality: This can cause severe allergic reactions from dust, mould, and other debris in the air.
- Polluted ductwork: This can promote moisture buildup leading to mould which can have a significant impact on your health. If you are noticing the air is damp or musty in your home, check your furnace filter immediately.
System failure: Not installing a furnace filter can have a detrimental effect on your furnace’s performance. It can force the unit to shut down or do damage to crucial parts like the evaporator coils or blower motor.
Regular Maintenance is Crucial
Have your furnace regularly inspected by a technician. This will ensure that it’s operating properly and that there are no clogs or problems with your air filter.
Routine maintenance is the first step in keeping your home’s air quality in check and making sure that your unit is functioning properly.
Contact Us
Contact the experts at One Stop HVAC for all your furnace filter replacement questions and solutions. We offer complete HVAC system maintenance and repair, so you never have to worry about your furnace air filter system preventing you from keeping your home warm and comfortable.
