The furnace filter is one part of your HVAC system that needs regular cleaning and occasional replacement too. It undergoes a lot of wear due to the amount of dirt, dust, and particulates that it is exposed to. A dirty filter can not only impact your indoor air quality but also reduce the efficiency of your HVAC unit. This is why it is essential to know how to clean a furnace filter so you can do it yourself and do not have to wait until your next scheduled HVAC maintenance appointment.
If it is time for scheduled maintenance of your HVAC system anyway or you would like help from our experts learning how to clean your furnace filter and HVAC system, give the experts at Galmiche & Sons a call at 314-993-1110.
How to Tell If Your Furnace Filter Needs Cleaning or Replacement?
In most cases, homeowners use disposable furnace filters, as these are cheaper and do a satisfactory job. Disposable filters need to be replaced at least once every three months. However, the trend is changing, and more and more homeowners are now opting for permanent filters. They may be more expensive than the disposable ones, but they are hassle-free and better for the environment. Permanent filters don’t need to be replaced until they have served their lifetime (usually many years). But they do need to be cleaned often, depending on the frequency of use of your system.
How frequently you need to clean a permanent furnace filter usually depends on the type of filter. For instance, an electrostatic filter needs to be cleaned every three months or so. Electronic filters tend to collect more dust, so they must be cleaned weekly.
So the first step in how to clean a furnace filter is to determine if your furnace filter needs a cleaning or a replacement. Just check if your system has a permanent or a disposable filter.
How to Clean a Furnace Filter: Learn the Steps
Now coming to cleaning instructions, the first step in how to clean a furnace filter is always to ensure that your HVAC system is switched off. Then look for the service panel and open the furnace. Locate the filter in the furnace and remove it. Place the clean side facing down so that you can access the dirty side of the furnace filter. Use a vacuum cleaner to clean off the loose debris gently. Once the loose particles are gone, you will need to clean off the more stubborn dirt with water. You can either do that in a sink or simply hose the filter with water and wipe the surface very gently. Make sure not to use any soaps or detergents.
Let the furnace filter dry completely before placing it back in position and turning your HVAC system on.
Hire a Trusted HVAC Contractor for Routine Furnace Maintenance
If you schedule regular maintenance of your HVAC system, your furnace filter could last much longer as your system is likely cleaner. However, it is important to consult your professional HVAC technicians for best practices.
In St. Louis and the surrounding areas, Galmiche & Sons has been in the HVAC maintenance business since 1950. We are expert HVAC contractors and can help with all of your furnace repair, servicing, and installation needs. Get in touch with our heating and air conditioning experts online or by phone to learn more about how we can help you.
