As a Southeast Michigan homeowner you probably already know that changing the furnace filter is one of those things you should often do, but it slips your mind. The fact is that while you forget to do it when you should, it’s one of the simplest but more essential tasks to not only ensure the best indoor air quality but prevent costly repairs and keep your furnace functioning smoothly.
Perhaps the easiest way to make sure you change your furnace filter each month is to mark it on the calendar. If it’s clogged or dirty when you hold it up against the light and you can’t see through it, is time to replace. If you can’t keep up with monthly changes, replace the filter every three months at a minimum.
Air Filters are an Essential Component of Your HVAC System
Most Ann Arbor homeowner don’t realize just how important the air filter is when it comes to heating and cooling their homes. Not only does the filter ensure better functioning and indoor air quality, but it also protects vital components of your system from becoming clogged or dirty while reducing the risk of particle build-up that can contribute to potentially costly issues. When your filter is clogged, and your system can’t operate at its best, you will probably notice higher monthly energy bills.
Repair Costs are Often Avoidable
A dirty or clogged air filter can result in more problems than you might think. It could cause your furnace to overheat, and during the summer season your air conditioner could completely shut down if the coils freeze due to restricted airflow. Why face expensive repair costs when many issues can be avoided by just changing or cleaning your air filter?
Enjoy Healthier, Fresh Air in Your SE Michigan Home
When the air filter is dirty or clogged, it cannot filter out dust, pet dander, allergens, pollen, bacteria and other contaminants that pollute the air inside your home; This not only impacts those with allergies but other issues such as COPD, asthma or other respiratory problems. While a clean filter helps tremendously with fresh, healthier indoor air, you may also want to think about an electronic air cleaner if you do have family members with allergies, asthma, etc.
Which Type of Filter Should You Choose?
Many homeowners choose the cheapest furnace filter, which is understandable but not always the best choice. To determine which type is best for your HVAC system, ask your Ann Arbor HVAC contractor or look in your furnace manual. Disposable filters are usually the cheapest and reusable filters are more expensive but more effective. High-efficiency filters or those with higher MERV ratings are capable of filtering out smaller particles than more inexpensive filters. However, they are not recommended for all HVAC systems and do cost significantly more. Before choosing these types of filters, it is a good idea to discuss it with your HVAC contractor.
While the filter may seem like the most minor and insignificant component of your heating and cooling system, it plays a significant role.
At Haley Mechanical we know the importance of keeping your HVAC filter clean throughout the seasons whether it’s winter or summer. When your heating or cooling system is running, filtering the air is critical to not only your family’s health and comfort, but the longevity of your system, how it performs, and how much you pay in energy costs. To learn more about monthly inspections and which filter is best for your needs, contact our Southeast Michigan HVAC experts today.
Filters are available on site at Haley Mechanical or delivered directly to your door through Filter Fetch.
