The furnace filter isn't dirty at all, at the first of each month
when I change it. Is there something wrong with the furnace?
2007-03-13 23:35:49 · 10 answers · asked by lillie b 1 in Home & Garden ➔ Do It Yourself (DIY)
I have changed from once a month to every 3 months since my filter is not dirty. Once a month is for areas where they get clogged with dirt and dust and especially pet hair. The furnace/AC works more efficiently when it gets clean air.
2007-03-13 23:59:09 · answer #1 · answered by sensible_man 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
About the only way the furnace could be at fault would be if there is some opening between the filter section and the blower, causing the air to short-circuit around the filter. Also, make sure the filter completely covers the plenum, and there are no gaps around it.
If that is ok, then don't bother changing the filter as often. Get a good one, leave it in...check it monthly and change as needed. A dirty filter actually filters better than a new one, and is not a big problem unless it gets really plugged. Then, your AC coil might frost up. The heat exchanger will work ok over a wide range of airflow. With slightly less flow, the air temp at the registers will be a bit higher.
A dirty filter will cause a decrease in fan motor energy draw...less air moved equals less energy used.
Much of the dust pulled into the cold air returns gets stuck in the return, because while the velocity at the return grills is high enough to suck in dust, when the ductwork increases in size, the velocity slows down and allows the dust to settle out.
You can increase the velocity by sealing the return ductwork. Start at the furnace and work your way out. Return ductwork is usually not well sealed, so there are lots of small leaks. Those closest to the furnace leak the most...same with supply...because the pressure differential is highest there.
2007-03-14 02:46:08 · answer #2 · answered by roadlessgraveled 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Are these the cheap ones you can see through? These catch the bigger particles and really just protect the furnace mechanisms. Under a buck a piece.
The pleated filters generally do a better job of collecting dust and small debris. These run $4 to $7 each.
Higher grade, say from 3M Cost $10 to $15 each. "Filtrete" is one make that some people like. Allegedly captures even smaller particles.
That being said, I use the $4 to $7 dollar ones. If you aren't seeing dirt, you can extend the cycle. Remember the goal is not to wait until the filter is packed, but it certainly should exhibit residue.
2007-03-14 00:55:47 · answer #3 · answered by KirksWorld 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
The standard life of a disposable filter is 200 Hrs.
2007-03-15 12:52:56 · answer #4 · answered by HVAC Tech. 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
No there's nothing wrong with it my husband is a heating and cooling tech and he changes our filter every month like clock work and there's usually not much on ours either. so i would only worry when it is real dirty that could cause your air to not work properly and make your electric bill rise....i hope this helps......
2007-03-15 17:38:02 · answer #5 · answered by marie s 1 · 0⤊ 1⤋
check for air leak if you don't have any then its OK . it depends how dusty your area is . if you keep the place clean u want have to change the filter every month maybe 90 days
2007-03-14 17:27:04 · answer #6 · answered by tdarty 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
some times i have to change my once a month or it can go for 2 to 3 months. i use the med use price ones
2007-03-14 03:39:32 · answer #7 · answered by lawrence c 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Why do you change it if it isnt dirty?
They tell you to change it every 30 days, but i inspect mine, and if its clean, i leave it there...i change it probably 3 times a year
2007-03-14 03:18:40 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
Waste of money, so do it every like 6 months or even more.
2007-03-14 00:19:18 · answer #9 · answered by James M 6 · 0⤊ 3⤋
hi Waste of money
I replace mine when we change clock setting and replace smoke alarm battery
2007-03-14 03:12:20 · answer #10 · answered by pcc122 4 · 1⤊ 3⤋