Are you installing your furnace filter correctly? Believe it or not, there is a right way to do so. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about furnace filters, including how to install them.
What is the best type of air filter?
Furnace filters come in many sizes, MERV ratings, and media. Some manufacturers make air filters specifically for your system brand, while others design more universal options.
Furnace air filters can be made of various materials and offer different filtration levels.
Pleated filters provide the best air quality and system protection. You may want to try electrostatic filters if you’re looking for a more environmentally friendly air filter.
However, you should avoid fiberglass filters. Although cheap fiberglass filters can stop contaminants from entering your system, they have minimal impact on air quality.
How do I know what size air filter I need?
Filters are not one size fits all, so having the correct size is essential. If you are unsure what size filter you need, look at your current filter and check if the size is printed on the side.
Do you need help finding the right filter size? Check out our blog, 3 Ways to Find The Air Filter Size You Need.
If you are having trouble finding your filter size, don’t worry! We offer custom home air filters to fit your needs.
Which MERV rating is best for my air filter?
MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Report Value and is the standard for rating the effectiveness of furnace filters. Selecting the proper MERV rating is as crucial as getting the correct size filter. You’ll want to find the MERV that best fits your unique needs. For residential applications, we recommend MERV 8, MERV 11, or MERV 13.
For more information about MERV ratings, visit our In-Depth MERV Ratings Guide.
How to Locate the Filter
The location of your furnace filter can differ.
Your air filter can be in your furnace, wall, or ceiling air intake. If your home has more than one level, you likely have an air intake grille on each level. Before we can help you install your air filter, we need to determine what type you need. This depends on your system type.
Furnace filters are usually located near the blower of a furnace. The pictures below are examples:
Furnace filters can also be in your wall or ceiling.
If you have a window or wall-mounted air conditioner, your filters are most likely washable.
How do I know when it’s time to replace my furnace filter?
The change time may differ depending on the type of air filter you have or other factors affecting the air quality in your home.
Here are a few factors to consider:
- Type of Filter: If your air filter is 1 inch deep, change it every 1-3 months. Going 6-12 months before replacing may suffice if you have a high-efficiency filter.
- Air Quality: What’s the air quality like in and around your home? If dust or other pollutants, like wildfire smoke, smog, or pollen, are a constant issue, change your filter more often.
- Pets Living in the Home: Pet owners should inspect and possibly replace filters every 1-2 months. Pet hair and dander can accumulate quickly and can obstruct airflow.
- Number of Residents: The number of people living there must be considered. This is especially true for those with allergies or unique concerns. Checking your filter often and changing it when it is dirty can help reduce symptoms, making the home more comfortable for everyone.
Thinking about these factors will help your air conditioning system run more efficiently. It will also help keep the air in your home clean and may save you money on energy costs.
What are the Benefits of Changing Your Furnace Filter?
Although it may feel like a chore you can ignore, changing your furnace filter has many benefits. Here are a few:
- Better Air Quality: Changing your furnace filter often is an easy way to improve the air quality in your home. A good air filter will catch dust, pollen, and other particles, making your home’s air feel clean and breathing more effortless for everyone.
Improved Energy Efficiency: A clogged filter restricts airflow and forces your furnace to work harder, consuming more energy. Regularly replacing it with a clean filter will keep your system running smoothly and efficiently. Lowering your energy usage and utility bill totals. - Longer Furnace Life: Routine maintenance, especially replacing filters, can extend the life of your furnace. When your furnace works with less strain, it wears down less. This means fewer breakdowns and a longer life.
- Lower Environmental Impact: When your furnace consumes less energy, it is better for the environment and your wallet. Regular filter maintenance reduces energy costs, saving you money in the long run.
Alleviated Allergies: Frequent filter changes are essential for those with asthma or allergies. Filters help reduce allergens in your home, benefiting those with respiratory sensitivities.
As you can see, committing to changing your filters regularly can reap many rewards. Not only will it save you money, but it will also help you create a healthier home environment!
What Supplies Do You Need to Install a New Furnace Filter?
Replacing your air filter should be effortless. All you need is your new furnace filter and a rag to wipe away dust or dirt that might have accumulated in the return air grille or the return itself. You may want to wear work gloves to prevent your hands from getting messy.
How to Change Your Furnace Filter
Now that you have everything you need. It’s time to change your furnace filter. Here’s a helpful video to show you how:
Or follow these simple steps.
- Turn off your system using the thermostat.
- Remove the grille on your return or open the panel of your furnace.
- Remove the old, dirty filter.
- Before installing your new air filter, look for the “airflow” arrow along its side.
- Ensure the “airflow” arrow is pointed towards the return or your furnace.
- Close the return grille or door and latch.
- Turn your system back on.
Furnace Filter Install FAQs & Tips
Although changing your furnace filter should be straightforward, there are a few issues you may run into.
What if the Filter Doesn’t Fit or Is Damaged?
Your new filter should fit snuggly in the return or furnace slot. If you notice that it feels loose or if you have to force it to get it in, it is likely that you do not have the correct size filter.
Why is making sure you have the correct filter size important?
Utilizing the correct size filter is essential. A filter that is too small will let dirt and debris get to your system’s coils and cogs. A filter that is too big and forced into the slot can let dirt pass through, leading to early breakdowns and costly repairs.
]The filter’s condition is also crucial when installing a new one. Damage to the filter’s frame or media can cause issues, leading to potential air leaks that can damage your system.
If you realize you have the wrong size filter or your filter arrived damaged, return it, if possible. If you ordered your furnace filter from Filters Fast, you have 365 days to make your return.
Which Direction Should an Air Filter be Installed?
There is a right way and a wrong way to install your air filter. If your filter has an airflow arrow on the frame, ensure that the arrow points toward the return or the furnace. If your filter does not have an arrow, ensure that the side with metal mesh and/or framing is away from you as you install it.
Having your furnace filter positioned against the direction that the air flows is essential for getting the most out of your furnace filter.
Why Cleaning Around the Filter Slot Is Important
Keeping the area around the filter clean is as crucial as consistently installing fresh filters.
Dust and debris build-up around the return duct can hinder airflow and even cause unpleasant odors when your HVAC is running. Cleaning the air return and the surrounding area is easy and will boost efficiency and improve air quality! Make a habit of regularly dusting and cleaning these areas each time you change your filter.
Issues with the Access Panel
Properly closing the furnace access panel or return air grille should not be overlooked. Improperly closing this area can cause a poorly positioned filter, debris or other obstructions, or misalignment of the components.
Double-check to ensure you installed the filter securely before checking this task off your to-do list.
Why Schedule Professional Furnace Maintenance?
Scheduling professional maintenance for your furnace can be beneficial for many reasons.
If you consistently change your furnace filters, having an expert look at your unit will ensure everything works properly. You’ll be able to prevent any problems that may arise and even avoid costly repairs.
If your furnace is running on natural gas, this is even more reason to have your system checked. This type of furnace should be carefully monitored for safety. Having a professional check it out and identify any safety hazards, such as gas leaks, will give you peace of mind.
Are you unsure if you’re using the proper MERV rating for your system? Ask! The HVAC tech should be able to tell you if the MERV rating you are using is right for your furnace.
A rule of thumb is to schedule a professional check-up for the cooling system during the spring and the heating system sometime during the fall season. This will ensure that your HVAC system runs at peak efficiency when you need it to!
Regular tune-ups can also help extend the lifespan of your furnace and save you money over time.
Does Humidity Affect Furnace Performance?
Surprisingly, it does! Optimal indoor humidity levels are typically between 30% and 50%.
Adequate humidity can create a warmer feeling in your home, even if you lower your thermostat. This means you’re less dependent on cranking up the heat, which can significantly reduce the workload on your furnace. By enhancing warmth perception, you can maintain comfort while conserving energy.
Ensuring your home has a healthy humidity level will benefit your furnace and your health. Too dry air can lead to dry, itchy skin, respiratory issues, and other issues.
Employing a humidifier during the winter months and a dehumidifier during the warmer months can help you achieve a comfortable atmosphere in your home.
How to remember when to change your furnace filter
Do you wish there were an easier way to remember what size filter you need and when to change it? The Filters Fast Home Filter Club filter subscription service is what you’ve been looking for!
Simply find the filter you need, select the frequency you want delivered, and we’ll take care of the rest! When your filters arrive, it’s easy to remember to change your furnace filter. Plus, you can get Free Shipping and save up to 10% on every order!
Furnace filter changes should be easy, so we’re here to help! If you have any questions, contact our Customer Care team at 866-438-3458 or [email protected].
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