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How Often Should You Change Your Home’s Furnace Filter?

A person replacing a furnace air filter.

Life at home is filled with little chores — some we hardly think about. We do the dishes, take out the trash, and vacuum the floors without a second thought. But then there are those tasks that tend to sneak by unnoticed, like changing your furnace filter. It’s an easy thing to forget until you start noticing a little extra dust in the air or your heating system doesn’t seem to be working as well as it used to.

So, how often should you replace your furnace filter? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about furnace filter replacement frequency to keep your home comfortable and your furnace running smoothly.

Why Is Furnace Filter Maintenance Important?

The furnace filter plays an integral role in your home’s heating system. Its job is to trap dust, pet dander, and other airborne particles that circulate through the air handler. A clean filter allows the system to work efficiently, maintain good air quality, and keep your energy costs manageable.

When you forget to change your furnace filter, you may notice reduced air flow, higher energy bills, and even issues with the system itself. Regularly changing the filter is key to keeping your furnace — and your home — in top shape.

What Happens If You Never Change Your Furnace Filter?

Neglecting to replace your furnace filter can cause several problems, some of which might lead to costly repairs. A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing your furnace system to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. This strain can cause the system to overheat, leading to potential damage to its components.

Additionally, a dirty filter reduces indoor air quality. It stops trapping airborne particles effectively, allowing more dust and contaminants to circulate in your home. This can aggravate allergies, worsen asthma symptoms, and make your living space less comfortable overall.

How Often Should You Replace Your Furnace Filter?

A good rule of thumb is to change your furnace filter on a monthly basis. Homes with pets, larger families, or allergy concerns will benefit greatly from having a fresh filter every month.

Below, we’ll discuss the key variables that determine how often you should replace your furnace filter in more detail.

Pets and Pet Hair

If you have pets, their fur and dander can quickly clog your furnace filter. Dogs and cats shed fur year-round, and during shedding seasons, the amount of hair in your home skyrockets. Pets that spend a lot of time indoors or sleep near air vents will exacerbate the problem. For households with pets, it’s often recommended to replace the filter every one to two months to keep up with the additional debris.

Allergies and Asthma

For families dealing with allergies or asthma, a clean furnace filter is essential for maintaining healthy indoor air. Dust mites, pollen, and other allergens can accumulate quickly in a clogged filter, triggering symptoms like sneezing, coughing, or itchy eyes. If someone in your home has allergies, consider replacing the filter every month during peak allergy seasons to minimize exposure to airborne particles.

Filter Type and MERV Rating

Furnace filter replacement frequency can also be impacted by the type of filter you use. Fiberglass filters are inexpensive but require frequent replacement — every 30 days or less.

Pleated filters, which have a higher MERV rating, last longer and can trap smaller particles like pet dander and pollen. Depending on the filter’s quality and your home’s needs, pleated filters may last three to six months. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the best results.

Household Activity Level

Your home’s activity level can also influence how often you should replace your furnace filter. The more active your household is, the more dust and debris are generated.

If your home has multiple family members, frequent visitors, or high activity, you may need to change your filters more often since you most likely are using your HVAC system frequently. Similarly, if your home is undergoing renovations or repairs, the increased dust levels can clog a filter faster, which may necessitate replacement every one to two months.

Signs It’s Time for a Furnace Filter Change

Even with a general schedule in mind, sometimes you need to rely on visual and performance cues to know it’s time for a new filter.

  • Dust Around Vents: If you’re seeing more dust than usual around your return air vents, your filter might be overdue for a replacement.
  • Reduced Airflow: If the airflow from your heating vents feels weaker, it could be a sign of a clogged filter.
  • Increased Energy Bills: A sudden spike in energy costs during the winter months can sometimes point to a dirty filter, forcing your furnace to work harder.

Can You Change a Furnace Filter While It’s Running in Winter?

Changing the filter with the HVAC system running risks pulling loose dust or debris into the air handler, which can affect performance. During the winter months, your furnace works harder than usual, so keeping the filter clean is critical. Replace the filter regularly to maintain consistent airflow, reduce energy costs, and avoid unnecessary strain on your system.

Call PGA Inc. for Heating Services in Wausau, WI

Sticking to the right furnace filter replacement frequency makes a big difference in how well your heating system performs. Factors such as pets, allergies, and your filter’s MERV rating can all affect how often you need a replacement. By staying on top of this simple task, you’ll save energy, breathe easier, and keep your furnace running smoothly all year long.

If your heating system could use a tune-up, PGA Inc. is here to assist you. We’re proud to provide professional heating services in Wausau, WI, and the surrounding areas. Our team is ready to keep your home comfortable all year long.

Looking for a new heating and cooling system? Our team also specializes in furnace installation in Wausau, WI. Whether you’re dealing with reduced airflow or other heating issues, we’ll help you find the best solution for your home. Schedule your service with us today!

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