by Joseph Hazelbaker

Created on: March 24, 2007   Last Updated: May 01, 2007

Replacing your furnace filter regularly provides both economic and health benefits. Clean filters keep air flowing freely and reduce your furnace bill. Clean filters also keep airborne dust and allergens down. Here are several tips to make sure you get those benefits.

1) Buy in multiples. Furnace filters can be expensive (from less than $1 to $25 each), but if you buy them in packages of two or more, the price per filter decreases. Also, you are more likely to replace your filter if you have a new one when you remember that it's time to do so.

2) Buy higher quality. Purchase the highest quality filters you can afford. With furnace filters, quality does matter. The higher the quality the filter, the longer it is likely to last and the wider range of particles it will remove from the air. One criteria for quality is the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV), which is a number printed on the packaging or side of the filter. The higher the MERV number the better the filter.

3) Replace often. Furnace filters should be replaced at least every three months. A good tip is to chart replacement dates on our calendar, or send yourself an email with the dates in it. You'll come across the dates when you check your calendar or clean up your inbox. If you have pets, or have some home remodeling done, you'll want to check your filters more frequently.

4) Go Pleated. Furnace filters are of two main styles: pleated and fiberglass. Fiberglass filters are cheaper, but accumulate debris and clog more quickly. Once a filter clogs, the efficiency of your furnace decreases, increasing your energy consumption, and the chance of a breakdown escalates, hitting your wallet hard. Pleated filters filter more, more efficiently. Pleated filters, particularly when electrostatically charged, will also reduce airborne allergens in your home. Pleated filters cost more, but provide a better value when all of the hidden costs are factored in.

5) Think Reusable. You can get reusable filters that you wash and replace. However, you need to be diligent. If you let a reusable filter go too long, it will be a nightmare to clean and you may never get it completely clean again.

5) Go Electric. If you are replacing your furnace, consider doing so with a furnace that incorporates an electric air filter. Electronic air filters can remove over ninety percent of small particles, including mold spores, and eighty percent of viruses. This will reduce the need for filters and greatly improve the quality of the air you breath.

I hope these tips help you keep your home healthy and happy!

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