How Do I Clean a Furnace Air Filter?

With the colder months rolling in, you’ll want to keep your furnace in tip-top shape to keep your home warm and cozy. One simple but vital aspect of maintenance is cleaning your furnace air filter on a regular basis. Here are the key steps to keep your furnace air filter clean and working efficiently.

Step 1: Turn Off the Furnace

Before starting with any maintenance task, make sure your furnace is turned off. This is crucial to minimize the potential for accidents that can cause injury to you or damage to your home.

Step 2: Locate the Air Filter

The air filter is a square or rectangular-shaped panel that’s typically located near the bottom of the furnace. If you cannot find it, refer to your furnace’s manual. If you no longer have the manual, you can likely find one by looking up your furnace’s make and model online. Once located, carefully slide the filter out of its slot.

Step 3: Clean or Replace the Air Filter

Depending on the condition of the filter, you’ll need to either clean or replace it. If your furnace’s filter looks dirty or clogged, clean it. Use a soft-bristle brush or vacuum to remove any dirt, debris, or dust trapped in the filter. Please note that using water or cleaning solutions to wash the filter could damage it, so refrain from using them.

If the filter looks completely worn out, it’s time for a new one, and you’ll need to purchase a replacement filter that fits your furnace. You can get these air filters at a local hardware store or online.

Step 4: Reinstall the Filter

Once you are done cleaning or replacing the filter, slide it back into place, lining it up correctly with the arrows on the filter. If not fitted properly, the furnace won’t work efficiently. After the air filter is back in its place, turn the furnace on and check if it works correctly.

Step 5: Schedule Regular Maintenance Checks

It’s essential to perform routine maintenance checks on your furnace, including cleaning the air filter. The frequency of this check is dependent on the filter’s use and the air quality of the furnace’s environment. A regular maintenance schedule ensures that the furnace continues to work efficiently and saves you from incurring expensive repairs.

Let Us Handle Your Furnace Maintenance!

Cleaning or replacing your furnace air filter is a simple process that can improve your furnace’s overall efficiency and lifespan and reduce or prevent indoor air pollution. Follow these five steps to prolong your furnace’s lifespan, or entrust your appliance’s maintenance to experts like us at Meyer’s Companies, Inc.

Contact us anytime to schedule the furnace maintenance service your home needs!