Thermostat set to heat but it's still feeling a little cold? You might have a dirty furnace filter! Every 3 months, it is important to clean or replace your furnace filter. This ensures that your heating/cooling system is working efficiently, which in turn, keeps your energy bill low!
Tools you will need: Furnace filter, hose or bathtub
1. Turn off the furnace and remove the filter cover. When replacing your furnace filter, you need to make sure that you purchase the correct size. Don’t be afraid to bring the entire filter with you to your local hardware store, if you’re not sure what size it is.
2. When you know you have the correct filter size, take a marker and mark the size on the side of the furnace as well as the direction the arrow on the filter is pointing. This will make future filter replacements easier. Slide the new filter into the slot, making sure that the arrows are pointing away from the return-air ducts and towards the blower. If the filter is facing the wrong way, the furnace will not work correctly.
3. Turn your furnace back on and you’re good to go!
In a less likely scenario, you may have a non-disposable filter. If this is the case, turn off your furnace and remove the filter. Take the filter outside and clean it with a hose, or place it in a bathtub to remove the built up dust and dirt. Make sure you let the filter dry completely before returning it to the furnace. Remember, the arrow on the filter needs to be pointing away from the return-air ducts, and towards the blower. Once the filter is placed correctly back in the slot, turn the furnace back on.
For the visual learners, here’s a video.