How to Fix Clogged Furnace Filter
Ever wondered why we keep bugging you about changing your furnace filter? It turns out we’ve got a good reason! Think of your furnace filter as your heating system’s first line of defense. When it gets clogged up, it’s like trying to breathe through a stuffy nose. Your furnace has to work extra hard, which means higher energy bills and potential damage to your system.
If you’re in Memphis, TN, and need expert help, our Mister Greenway Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning team is ready for the rescue. Clogged furnace filters or any other heating-related issues, no more! We have your back.
Your Furnace Filter: Understanding Its Role
You might think little about your furnace filter. But it is more than a simple barrier. As a matter of fact, it’s a protective layer for your HVAC system, doing some heavy lifting in your home. In essence, it serves two primary purposes: improving air quality and protecting the system.
The furnace filter catches all sorts of stuff you don’t want floating around. We’re talking about dust, pollen, and other particles that could make your air quality worse or damage your furnace. When it’s clean, warm air flows freely through your home. When it’s dirty? That’s when the problems start.
This filter also supports your cooling system, making it an important part of both heating and cooling functions.
Regularly changing the filter helps keep your system running at its best and reduces the likelihood of future problems.
Identifying a Dirty Filter and Time to Change
Knowing when to change a clogged furnace filter is straightforward. Here’s a neat trick: hold your filter up to a light. If you can barely see through it, it’s definitely time for a change. You should also replace that filter if you find dust gathering on the surface or discoloration.
Even if it looks okay, try to swap it out every 1-3 months. Think of it like changing your car’s oil. It’s just good maintenance.
Impact on Heating System
Are you wondering what can go wrong with a dirty filter? A clogged furnace filter is like a traffic jam for your heating system and can seriously impact on your furnace’s performance. Your furnace has to work overtime, which can lead to overheating and that annoying on-off cycling. The worst part? It could eventually cause your furnace to break down completely. And nobody wants that, especially during a cold Memphis winter.
To resolve heating problems caused by a clogged filter, turn off the furnace and inspect the filter. If the issue persists after replacing it, you may need further troubleshooting, such as checking thermostat settings or if the vents are open. If these steps don’t help, it’s time to contact the pros.
Common Causes of a Clogged Furnace Filter
Several factors can make a furnace filter clog more quickly.
Here are they:
- Using budget filter: One reason is the use of lower-quality filters that don’t trap particles effectively and tend to fill up faster.
- Running your furnace non-stop during cold snaps: During colder months, the furnace runs more frequently, which can also cause the filter to clog sooner.
- Having dusty return vents: If the furnace fan runs constantly, dirt and debris accumulate even when the system isn’t heating, adding to the problem.
- Poor indoor air quality: Poor indoor air quality, along with dusty return air vents, can further contribute to faster filter clogging.
Warning Signs of a Clogged Furnace Filter
Several clear signs indicate that your furnace filter is clogged and crying for help.
For example:
- Dust Buildup on Vent Covers and Registers: If you see more dust on your furniture lately, this is one of the most noticeable symptoms of a clogged filter.
- Reduced Airflow Through the Vents: If some rooms in your home feel like an icebox while others are toasty warm, this points to an airflow issue. It means your furnace struggles to push warm air through a clogged filter.
- Furnace Short Cycling: Do you notice your furnace turning on and off like it can’t make up its mind? This is a significant indicator that your furnace is not completing a full heating cycle. And that can be caused by a dirty filter.
How to Change a Clogged Furnace Filter
Changing your furnace filter is a pretty simple task.
Follow these steps:
1. Turn Off the Furnace
Safety first! So, before handling the filter, turn off your furnace.
2. Find the Filter Compartment
This is usually where air enters the furnace (close to the return air duct or blower compartment).
3. Remove the Old Filter
Slide out the old filter. If the filter is reusable, rinse it with water and let it dry before placing it back in. If it’s disposable, replace it with a new one.
4. Install the New or Cleaned Filter
Pop in the new one. Make sure those arrows on the filter frame point in the right direction!
5. Turn the Furnace Back On
Fire up your furnace and enjoy the improved airflow.
Regular filter changes will help your furnace run majestically, especially during colder months when it’s working harder to heat your home.
When to Call in the Pros in Memphis
While changing the filter can solve many heating issues, some problems require professional assistance. If you’ve changed your filter but your furnace is still acting up, it might be time to bring in some expert help. For folks in Memphis, our Mister Greenway Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning team is always set to lend a hand. We can tackle everything from simple maintenance to complex repairs.
Regular system checkups are also important for keeping your furnace in good working order. The right pro can inspect the system, clean areas you can’t reach, and identify potential problems before they make a hole in your wallet.
Experiencing a Clogged Furnace Filter? Call Mister Greenway
Taking care of your furnace filter is one of the simplest ways to keep your heating system happy and your home comfortable. Regular changes help your system run efficiently and can save you money in the long run. Plus, you’ll breathe easier knowing your air is cleaner!
Are you a Memphis homeowner in need of help with your heating system? Our team at Mister Greenway is just a phone call away. We offer top-tier heating repair and maintenance services. Whether it’s time to change a filter or tackle a larger furnace problem, our team provides same-day service to get your home back to cozy comfort ASAP. Better yet, we’ll scramble a trained, friendly tech in 30 minutes or less. Call us today!