Wait–You're Supposed To Change Your Furnace Filter How Often?

Changing your furnace filter is one of those home maintenance chores that's easy to forget until you've got a problem. Typically located in tucked-away spots like a basement, crawlspace, or attic, it's often a case of "out of sight, out of mind." But forgetting to regularly replace your furnace filter can cause serious issues. Along with reduced airflow leading to extra wear and tear on the mechanical components of your entire heating system, filters clogged with dust and debris will also lead to lowered air quality, inconsistent temperatures, and higher energy bills. The good news is that the replacement process is simple, quick, and inexpensive to DIY. Staying on top of this small task can keep the air in your home cleaner and save you money. Most systems benefit from changing a furnace filter every three months, but if you have pets or allergies, swapping it out monthly is best.

There are a lot of top-rated furnace filters worth buying. Although they may look slightly different from each other depending on whether they're made of fiberglass or pleated media, they all work by trapping dust, pollen, and other allergens while allowing heated air to flow freely inside your home. Over time, these particles accumulate, reducing your system's efficiency. Pet dander and fur make the problem even worse, which is why you'll need to replace your furnace filter more frequently if you share a home with any furry friends. Investing a few minutes in this minor maintenance task can prevent major problems down the line. It's one of the simplest ways to prolong the life of your HVAC system.

If the only time you get up close and personal with your HVAC system is when you're adjusting the thermostat, it can feel a little intimidating to change your furnace filter for the first time. But once you understand the steps, it takes only a few minutes, requires no special tools, and is way cheaper than buying a new furnace. Consider setting a reminder on your phone or even subscribing to a filter subscription service to help you remember this important home maintenance task.

You'll start by turning your furnace off at the thermostat to ensure the system isn't running while you're working. Most thermostats have a simple button or toggle switch. If your system is running, you should be able to hear it turn off. Next, locate the filter. It's usually in the return air duct or inside the furnace itself. Consult your user's manual, watch a tutorial video, or consider giving your HVAC installer a quick call before heading up into a hot attic or wiggling into a tight crawl space if you're feeling anxious about finding it.

The next step is sliding out the old filter carefully, making sure to pay attention to the airflow direction, which is often noted by an arrow on the filter frame. It will be dirty, so consider wearing protective gear, including a mask, gloves, and eyewear. Insert the new filter in the orientation indicated by the arrows, making sure it fits snugly, before closing the panel to hold it in place. Finally, turn the furnace back on at the thermostat and congratulate yourself on an important job well done.