You’re sneezing more than usual, and you’re noticing that the dust you just cleaned up an hour ago is back in the same corner – frantically waiving at you like a wacky inflatable arm flailing tube man. Knowing that you could have company at any time, you search for the culprit. While searching, you realize that your furnace filter resembles a dirty wool blanket.
Thinking that this might be the culprit, you look online to find information about how to change your furnace filter, and you land here.
Why You Should Change Your Furnace Filter Regularly
Before we delve into the five easy steps, it’s important to know why changing your furnace filter is essential. While there are many reasons, the biggest ones are that it allows your HVAC system to operate at its designed performance level and it helps you breathe clean, healthy air. And it’s true what they say — not all filters are designed equally. In fact, some filters will allow virtually no dust and airborne particulates in the air, whereas others may let in more. With some filters, you might have to replace them every month, whereas, for others, you will have to replace them every four to six months.
The longevity of your furnace filter will also depend on a few factors:
- The number of pets you have
- The number of people living in your home
- How often your heating system fan runs
- How often you open your doors and windows
- The number of home improvements you’re doing that may involve sanding and construction that will produce airborne particles
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Change Your Furnace Air Filter
Now that you have all this information stored in the back of your brain and have purchased the correct filter for your furnace, we get to the good stuff. Here are five easy steps on how to replace your furnace filter.
- Turn off your furnace.
- Locate your service panel (your filter cabinets cover).
- Remove the old filter by sliding it out.
- Slide your new filter in (Please pay attention to the arrow on your filter. You want this pointing toward the furnace.).
- Turn the furnace back on.
Tips for Maintaining Your Furnace Filter
To prolong the time it takes between filter changes, we’ve included the following maintenance practices that can stretch your filter life span:
- Clean periodically: The dustier the environment, the faster a filter will become clogged. So, be sure to do regular clean-ups, especially around the furnace. This will help limit the amount of dirt and debris that finds its way into your filter.
- Ensure you have the right filter: Consult your furnace manufacturer’s guidelines to see what they recommend you use. If the guidelines allow it, look for a filter with a high minimum efficiency reporting value rating, as the higher the rating, the more dust they can catch.
- Keep an eye on air quality: Many factors affect air quality, but a significant increase in noticeable dust and particles in the air is a sign to change furnace filters.
Not Comfortable Changing Your Filter? We Can Help!
If changing the air filter in your furnace is not your thing, give us a call and ask about our Randazzo Air Care. This membership is loaded with benefits, which is why over 7,000 people have decided to sign up. These benefits include:
- Special pricing offers: We have pricing offers for all repairs, after-hours emergency diagnostics, filters, humidifier pads, and accessory upgrades!
- Inspections: You get a 20-point inspection for one air conditioner and one furnace.
- Easy scheduling: With our industry-leading scheduling software, you’ll receive reminders, and we make it easy to schedule a time that works for you.
Contact Us Today
If you currently have an HVAC issue, Randazzo Heating, Cooling, and Electrical can help. Contact us today for maintenance or if you have questions about our services.
You can also schedule a free in-home estimate and sign up for our air care maintenance plan to ensure your HVAC system is efficient and keeps the temperature comfortable throughout the year.
Last Updated on March 11, 2025 at 10:05AM EST
