HVAC Air Filters: Benefits Of Changing Them & How To Do It Yourself

Have you ever had your A/C unit freeze up on you or have you ever had your heater working non-stop but it feels cold in your house? When troubleshooting issues like these, an HVAC expert might first ask “When was the last time that you changed out your air filters”? You might be surprised at what an air filter will do for your HVAC system and you.

When you change out your air filters, many things happen. You improve you air quality. A new filter will live up to what it is supposed to do. It will filter out pollutants and allergens that will affect your respiratory system if you do not change them out enough. Also, it will ensure that your system is running better because it will not have to work as hard in order to keep your house comfortable. In the following article by Angie’s List, they discuss some of the associated benefits with changing out your air filters:

5 Reasons to Change Your Furnace Filter

1.  Extending the life of your HVAC unit. The most common reason a heating and air conditioning system breaks down is because of a dirty filter.

2. . Keeping energy costs down. When that clogged air filter is working harder, more energy is being used.

3.  Maintaining healthy air quality. This is particularly important if anyone in your family suffers from allergies or asthma. Dirty air filters worsen the air quality and can exacerbate symptoms.

4.  Keeping your heating and cooling system clean. Dirt clogged up in the filter can lead to polluting the entire HVAC system.

5. A clean peace of mind. Replacing your filter is an easy, inexpensive step to take to save money, extend the life of your system and improve your indoor air quality.

This article really does a great job at outlining why you need to change out your air filters. Set up a reminder system such as setting writing it in your calendar so that you will remember to check it.

 

If you are unaware of how to change out your filters, the following video outlines how you can do-it-yourself. Enjoy!

 

Best Ways To Reduce Your Home Heating Costs

Home heating costs can vary from one winter to another. Even if you are experiencing a mild winter, home heating costs are expensive. Fortunately, fuel costs are lower this year than last but most homeowners are still trying to find ways to reduce these costs while still feeling comfortable in their home. There are a number of ways that you can achieve this. The main goal is to keep the warm air in and the cold air out. Also, you can reduce the temperature on your thermostat and dress a little more "wintery". Some HVAC experts claim that one of the best ways that you can reduce your home heating costs is by having a tune-up of your HVAC system. This will ensure that your heater is running at its best and therefore, it will not have to work as hard in order to keep your house warm. However, there are other things that you can do in conjunction with a tune-up that will lower your home heating costs. In the following video, they do an excellent job at summarizing what you can do inexpensively around that house.

Just by dressing for the season and lowering your thermostat, you will see a significant difference on your utility bill each month. Be sure to open the curtains on a warm and sunny day and let the sun do the work instead of your heater. Be sure to cover drafty windows. If you follow these tips, then you will reduce your home heating costs and be able to enjoy saving it or spending it on things that you enjoy.