Despite appearances, there may be a problem with your furnace if the filter never gets dirty. Because furnace filters are meant to capture dust, debris, and other particles, a clean filter after some time indicates that your system isn’t working well or that the air isn’t circulating adequately.

What Is the Purpose of a Furnace Filter?

The primary function of a furnace filter is to purify the air that circulates throughout your house. It enhances indoor air quality by collecting airborne particles such as dust, pet dander, allergens, and other types of detritus. The filter also prevents particles that could damage or impair the furnace’s internal components from entering the system. Dust and debris can build up on the blower motor, fan, and other components if the filter isn’t working properly, which can reduce heating efficiency, increase energy expenses, and possibly cause a malfunction.

Low Furnace Usage

You might not use your furnace very often if you happen to reside in a mild weather area or if you opt to use alternative heating sources. This means there will be less dust and dirt going through the filter, and it will remain clean for longer periods of time. Even though this doesn’t appear to be an issue, you should check that the furnace is running efficiently and that the filter is in good shape before using it.

Good Indoor Air Quality

You can lessen the quantity of dust, dirt, and pollutants in the air by keeping your home clean, using an air purifier, and installing air-tight windows and doors. Reduced airborne particle concentration means less dirt and dust for the furnace filter to trap. Checking and replacing the filter on a regular basis is crucial for optimal furnace operation, regardless of the air quality in the home.

Improper Filter Installation

A poorly installed filter is another possible cause of it being unexpectedly clean. This is because the filter’s misalignment within its housing allows air to completely bypass it. What this signifies is that your home’s heating system isn’t doing its job effectively. You should always make sure the filter is in the right place and tightly placed in its hole.

Blocked Return Air Vents

The purpose of return vents is to recirculate air from your home’s interior into the heating system. Things like rugs, furniture, and other obstacles can restrict the airflow into the furnace and cause it to work less efficiently. A cleaner filter will be the outcome of insufficient airflow, which causes less air to pass through it. For the furnace to work properly and filter the air, you must make sure that the return air vents are open and unobstructed.

Leaky Ductwork

Problems with air duct leakage allow outside contaminants to enter the system and contaminate the air before it reaches the filter. This means that dust and grime can still enter your home through the vents and even accumulate in other areas of your furnace. By sealing the ductwork, you can prevent air from escaping and ensure that the filter is functioning correctly.

Incorrect Filter Size

When the filter is either too big or too small for the filter slot, air will bypass the filter and continue to flow around your home unfiltered. For the most accurate filter sizing information, check the owner’s handbook or call a technician.

Short Cycling of the Furnace

The term “short cycling” describes the phenomenon in which the furnace cycles on and off quickly. There are a number of potential causes for this, including an oversized furnace, faulty thermostat settings, or excessive heat. Inadequate airflow through the filter prevents the furnace from collecting dust and other particles when the cycle length is too short. Finding and fixing the root cause of short cycling is critical for the furnace’s effective operation, as it reduces efficiency and increases system wear.

Wrong Filter Type

Make sure the filter you purchase is compatible with your furnace and meets your home’s air quality requirements. If you choose a filter that isn’t made for your furnace or filtration demands, it won’t be able to do a good job of removing contaminants. Some filters, like high-efficiency models, are only effective at capturing very small particles; as a result, they may give the impression of being cleaner than they actually are. You might need to use an additional type of air-cleaning strategy, such as an air purifier, to capture the larger particles floating in the air.

Dirty Coils or Blower Fan

Dirty furnace coils or blower fans can trap dust and debris, preventing it from reaching the filter. Although the filter may be cleaner, the furnace’s interior components may become dirtier, which reduces their performance and shortens their lifespan. Cleaning the blower fan and coils as part of routine maintenance helps keep the filter in good working order and prevents dust and debris from building up inside the furnace.

Overly Sealed Home

Very little air, including the toxins it contains, can enter an exceptionally airtight house. Because fewer particles are entering the HVAC system, this can result in a cleaner furnace filter. Proper ventilation and frequent filter checks for your furnace are still necessary for optimal energy efficiency, even with good sealing. For optimal air quality and furnace efficiency, it’s best to strike a balance between sealing and ventilation.

Understanding Filter Types

There is a wide range of furnace filters available, each optimized for a specific air quality requirement and efficiency level. The most popular kinds of filters are pleated, which are quite efficient and provide superior filtering, and fiberglass filters, which are cheaper but not as good at trapping tiny particles. Filters that are known as high-efficiency particulate air are able to remove allergens and pollutants down to the smallest particles, offering superior filtering. In contrast to washable filters, which are both reusable and eco-friendly, electrostatic filters employ static electricity to attract and retain airborne pollutants. Consider your home’s air quality, furnace specifications, and any health issues you have to help choose the correct filter.

How Often to Change or Clean the Furnace Filter

Several criteria, such as the filter type, furnace usage, and indoor air quality, determine how often you should clean or replace your furnace filter. On average, you should change a regular filter every one to three months. Periodic checks are still necessary, even for high-efficiency filters, even though they may last longer. You might have to change the filter more frequently if you have allergies, pets, or a lot of indoor pollutants.

Conclusion

AJ Danboise Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical is here to help you choose the right filter for your furnace. We can also perform inspections and maintenance to ensure your furnace filter works correctly and keeps your indoor air quality at an optimal level. Some of the other services we provide include AC installations, drain cleaning, water filtration, sewer services, and whole house surge protection. Call us now to schedule furnace maintenance for your home in Farmington Hills, MI.

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