Furnace Filters
What you need to know about furnace filters
When performing furnace maintenance by yourself, you’ll learn about parts of your furnace that you’ve never thought about before. One such item is a furnace filter. These filters are stashed away in the back of your furnace, out of sight, but they perform a very important task in keeping your furnace running efficiently and cleanly. A furnace filter must be clean and unclogged in order to keep a steady flow of air running through your furnace and through your heating ducts. Filters also clean the air, making it easier for your family to breathe without worrying about airborne germs or allergens.
Why Furnace Filters Are so Important
Since the average person breathes in over 35,000 pints of air a day, all of which is filled with billions of particles of dust, furnace filters clean the air significantly so that the air we breathe is better for us. Furnace filters remove allergens and dust from the air, purifying the air in our homes.
Furnace filters need to be changed several times a year to maintain their benefits. While they don’t necessarily lower your energy bill, the health benefits are numerous, and it has been proven that, over time, a well-maintained furnace with special attention paid to replacing the filter will prolong the life of your furnace and cut down on unnecessary repairs to the blower or mechanisms due to dust damage.
Types of Furnace Filters
Furnace filters come in different sizes, types and shapes to fit your individual furnace. Some types include:
- HEPA furnace filters. These are filters that block allergens. While they work for people with extreme allergies, they can also block airflow, so ensure that your furnace can handle a HEPA filter before you use one.
- 3M furnace filters. These disposable filters fit most furnaces and provide medium-level protection against allergens and dust.
- Electrostatic furnace filters. These filters attract dirt and dust for a cleaner airflow, but don’t block allergens.
- Washable furnace filters. Extremely durable, washable filters are probably the best option for both airflow and allergens, if the filter carries a high MERV rating.
Whatever filter you choose, make sure you do your research and choose the best one for your furnace. Don’t be afraid to ask questions to find the filter you need to protect yourself, your family and your furnace.
