Our Novel Care technicians visit so many different customers in Toronto, York Region and the GTA and we’ve noticed that two common questions always come up about furnace filters. What is the main purpose of furnace filters and how often should furnace filters be replaced? As we don’t get a chance to always visit our customers before it’s time to change their furnace filters we’re hoping this posting will provide a little more information about furnace filters so our customers can take action before it’s too late.

What’s The Main Purpose of Furnace Filters?

One of the easiest ways to explain why you need a furnace filter and what it does is by comparing it to the human respiratory system. Every human has one thing in common, which is the need to breathe. Each of us has small hairs inside of our nose which are there to ensure that dust, pollen and other floating particles are collected so they don’t get into our lungs. Furnace filters operate in a very similar way. As your furnace pulls air from your home to heat it up and redistribute it, it passes through your furnace filter. This filter ensures that dust and other floating particles aren’t re-circulated throughout your home and enter your furnace to cause damage.

When considering air flow your furnace filter can also be compared to the respiratory system. If your nose is plugged up and you try to breathe in it’s not as easy as when you have a clear nose and nasal passage. Your furnace filter is just the same. If your furnace filter is old and is clogged it wont’ allow proper airflow for your furnace. By restricting air, flow furnace filters are making your furnace work harder than it has to which reduces its efficiency and the amount of warm air that’s spread throughout your home.

How Often Should I Change My Furnace Filter?

There are a few variables that can affect how often your furnace filter should be changed. The type of filter you have, if you have pets, the type of furnace you have, the environment inside and outside of your home, and the size of your home can all affect how often you need to change your filter. Typically, it’s a good idea to check your furnace filter at least once a month to ensure that it’s not clogged and is allowing proper airflow through the furnace. If you have an exceptionally dusty home or quite a few shedding pets then it might be worth checking more often. When furnace filters are clogged it’s very obvious and they should be changed immediately. It’s typically a good idea to have a replacement on hand so they can be quickly swapped out without the ned for a run to the Canadian Tire or Home Depot.

For more information about furnace filters or changing your furnace filter contact Novel Care today: 647-547-6094

Novel Care has been serving Toronto, York Region and the GTA for over 30 years, providing reputable and exceptional HVAC services.