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3 Things to Know Before Changing Your Furnace Filter

Even with our milder weather in Burbank, CA, keeping your furnace in good condition is essential for a comfortable home throughout the winter. Most furnace tasks require a qualified heating professional, but one of the simplest yet most impactful maintenance tasks you can do yourself is changing your filter. A clean filter improves air quality, boosts energy efficiency, and extends the life of your heating system. But before you dive into changing that filter, there are three key things you should know to ensure you’re getting the best results for your home.

1. Understand the Right Filter Size and Type

Using the wrong size filter can lead to poor air quality and potentially damage your unit. Check your furnace manual or look for sizing information on the side of the current filter. Common sizes include 16x25x1, 20x25x1, and 20x30x1, but it’s crucial to double-check.

Filter type matters as well. Filters come in different materials and ratings, with MERV ratings indicating their ability to trap particles. While a higher MERV rating can capture smaller particles, it may also restrict airflow if your system isn’t designed to handle it.

2. Replace Filters Regularly to Maintain Efficiency

A clogged filter forces your furnace to work harder, increasing energy consumption and wear on the system. For most homes, replacing the filter every 1-3 months is ideal, though homes with pets, allergies, or higher dust levels may need more frequent changes. There are also reusable filters, but if you use these, it’s essential to clean them out before replacing them. This helps maintain indoor air quality, reduces strain on your system, and keeps heating costs under control.

3. Take Note of Proper Installation Techniques

When installing a new filter, make sure it’s facing the correct direction, as marked by an arrow on the filter’s frame. This arrow should align with the airflow direction in your furnace. Installing the filter backward can hinder airflow, making your furnace less efficient and potentially causing it to overheat. Double-checking the installation only takes a moment but can prevent many issues.

Regular filter changes are a small but vital part of maintaining your heating system. At Certified Service, we proudly serve Burbank and the surrounding area with professional heating services to keep your home warm and comfortable all season long. Give us a call today to schedule a maintenance appointment.