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How to Check and Change Your Furnace’s Filter

November 7, 2018

How to Check and Change Your Furnace’s Filter

There are many things that can go wrong with a furnace. If it has stopped altogether then your first move should be to call a heating specialist. If you are dealing with a furnace that still runs but does not provide the level of performance it used to, then the culprit may be a dirty furnace filter.

Keep reading to learn how to check your furnace filter to find out if it is clogged and how to change it. If you have questions or needs assistance, feel free to reach out to 1st Choice Plumbing, Flood & Restoration at 866-437-0205 to set up an appointment.

Find your furnace filter

There is no uniform place for a filter to be located on a furnace. In some cases, it will be in the intake. If so, it will be in something that looks like a grate in your wall, ceiling, or floor. Other furnace filters will actually be in the furnace itself. Once you have located the filter, make a note of it somewhere so you will know next time it needs to be changed.

Check your filter to see if it needs to be replaced

Hold your furnace filter up to the light. If you cannot see any light shining through it, then it needs to be changed. If it is dusty or dirty, or if you notice a bad smell when the blower of your furnace turns on, then it is likely time to change your filter.

How to swap out your filter

First, turn off your furnace. Make sure that no air is coming out. Then look at your current filter and note which direction it is pointed. They are made to trap matter that’s blown from one direction so if you were to install it upside down, it will be less effective. Once you have removed the old filter, simply put the new filter in the same way the old was in.

There are many benefits to a clean air filter

If you take the time to clean the debris that builds up within your filters then the flow of air throughout your home will be better. If you air filter gets clogged, then the air handler in your furnace is going to have to work a lot harder to compensated for this blockage. Not only does this drive up your utility bill, but it can make your furnace break down sooner and more often due to the fact that it will be forced to work so hard.

If you believe it is time for maintenance or assistance with your heating or cooling system, contact a local HVAC expert for help. You can reach 1st Choice Plumbing, Flood & Restoration at 866-437-0205 to set up an appointment.