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FURNACE FILTERS – the unsung hero of effective central heating.
In this article, we’re going to figure out what a ‘furnace filter’ really does, how it effects the warmth and comfort of your house and whether all types of homes – including your apartment – needs them.
What is a furnace filter then?
Your furnace works by drawing in air, heating it up, and forcing the air back out to the central heating system around your house or apartment. With all the air coming in and out of it, it needs a filter to make sure it doesn’t clog up with dust and gunk.
The furnace filter protects the blower fan from all the dust and yucky bits that the furnace’s duct pulls in. Its job is not to clean and purify the air, as many people believe, but to remove contaminants and prevent the air-circulation of dust, and any other type of debris, in your home – very useful indeed.
Thanks furnace filter.
How do I maintain my furnace filter?
Every home should have a furnace filter. It’s vital in controlling the air quality of your home as well as the smooth running of your heating.
So, how do you maintain your furnace filter? Does it need to be changed? How often?
Your filter needs to be replaced as often as is necessary, and depends on your home environment. If you have pets who shed hair or family members with severe allergies, you will have to clean it out more often than if you don’t.
Changing your air filter around 4 times a years (without any pets or other special circumstances involved) is a safe bet we’d say. Again, this all depends on the type of filter you have and individual circumstances.
You can also vacuum and clean your filter as often as possible to increase its lifespan.
Worried about costs? Don’t be! Filters are cheap to replace – don’t fear – it’s not going to be a bank busting investment every few months when it’s time for a replacement.
Tip: When buying a new filter, make sure you know what type of filter you’re looking for! They come in a vast range of different shapes, sizes and qualities and you don’t want to come home with the wrong one!
Does my apartment need a furnace filter?
Yes. Every furnace needs a filter to run efficiently.
Some apartment complexes will do this for you… however, some won’t.
When moving into your apartment make sure not to overlook this and ask the landlord how your heater/air conditioner works. If there is a misunderstanding and no-one is looking after your furnace, your air-quality and heating efficiency is going to start heading south. Not only this, but it will also hit your bank balance! A poorly filter makes for a poorly, ill-running furnace that will have to work twice as hard to clean the air.
If your landlord is not involved with the maintenance of your furnace, don’t panic! It’s easy to do by yourself.
Just follow the tips provided above as a brief guide to furnace filter upkeep.
Hopefully we’ve shed some light on your filter furnace frets and concerns. For more tips from the top about heating and radiator upkeep and repair, whether it’s for trade radiators, or stylish radiators check out Designer Radiator Direct.
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