Boring Home Ownership Stuff: Don't Forget to Change your Furnace Filter

Did your home inspector show you where your filter is located?  Did your home inspection include filter size in their report? 
 
Maintaining the filter on your air conditioning and heating equipment isn't fun or glamorous. So why bother? Because a clean filter allows for proper air flow, and that makes the equipment run efficiently, saving you money. Also, a clean filter helps your system perform better, so your home environment will feel more comfortable.
 
A dirty filter restricts air flow and can make a heating unit overheat or an A/C unit freeze up, maintaining the filter helps you avoid a service call.
 
Filters come in various types, so check your furnace. If you have a washable filter, keep a log on your furnace or put a reminder in your smart phone.  Buy an appropriate replacement filter to have on hand when you need it. Filters are inexpensive and should be changed or cleaned when they are visibly dirty.  If you have pets, they normally need to be changed more frequently.  If you have allergies, you can buy more expensive filters.   When you do change the filter, note the directional arrows on the side. Place the filter so that the arrows point in the direction of air flow.  Many people will use a marker and draw an arrow on the duct. ​