How to Change a Furnace Filter

The furnace filter is an important part of the furnace in your Arlington, Virginia, home. It protects the blower and can filter dust out of your indoor air. Though not all HVAC maintenance is appropriate as a DIY project, changing the furnace filter is an easy and inexpensive way to keep your furnace healthy and in good working condition.

Why Change the Filter?

Your furnace filter is responsible for keeping the air that blows through your furnace and into your house clean. If your furnace filter is too dirty, you are doing damage to both your furnace and your indoor air quality. The furnace has to work harder to push air through the filter, and debris from the filter may be getting into your home’s air.

You will need to remove and inspect your filter regularly. You can easily tell if it needs to be cleaned or replaced. If your filter is covered in lint and other debris it is time for it to be changed. Depending on what kind of filter you have, you may need to change them monthly.

How to Change Your Filter

The filter is usually located near the bottom of the furnace, often inside the compartment that contains the blower. The side of the filter has little arrows on it, indicating the correct way it should be installed. When you pull the old filter out, pay attention to which way the arrows are pointing. Slide the new filter in with the arrows pointing in the same direction. Then close the compartment and dispose of the old filter.

Changing the filter will help your furnace operate smoothly, but it still needs its yearly professional checkup to stay in top shape. If you have questions about your furnace’s operation, want to know more about furnace filters, or need to schedule your yearly furnace maintenance, the professionals at Brennan’s Heating and Air Conditioning can help. Call us today at 703-783-0145.

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