You really shouldn’t have to struggle too much to heat your home successfully in this part of the country. Our winter weather is certainly not “extreme.” That being said, there are many reasons as to why you may fail to get a great performance from your furnace or heat pump. One of the most common is entirely the result of user error.
It may not sound like that big of a deal, but you absolutely must remember to change the filter in your forced-air heating system. This includes both furnaces and heat pumps. If you don’t, your heater in Prosperity, SC is going to run into a number of different issues. For additional insights into common heating problems, check out signs that you need heating repairs.
Yes, a Dirty Air Filter Is a Big Problem
When your air filter is clogged, it is going to create more airflow resistance than it should. This makes your heater work harder than it should have to in order to distribute heat throughout your residence. The result is increased energy consumption, which translates to higher energy costs even as your comfort likely suffers.
Increased heating costs are not the only issue that you may run into, though. Short cycling is another. Not only can short cycling further drive up energy costs, as your heat pump or furnace will have to restart over and over, but it can also lead to serious strain on the system. This added wear and tear increases the risk of operational problems with your system, repair needs, and even a shortened lifespan. If you’re concerned about these issues, explore more about handling efficiency issues with your heater.
So how frequently should you be changing your air filter? It’s a good idea to check the filter on a monthly basis, at least until you’ve had your heater for a while and can make an educated estimate. A number of different factors, including the efficiency of the filter, conditions in your home, the presence of pets, and others will determine this frequency. Generally speaking, 1-3 months per filter is pretty average. Regular maintenance is essential—don’t overlook the importance of heating maintenance to keep your system running efficiently.
Fulmer Heating & Cooling can handle your heating service needs.