Furnace Filter Maintenance: Best Practices for Better Air Quality
Ever notice how your home feels stuffy or dusty, even after cleaning? The culprit could be your furnace filter, the first line of defence against dust, allergens, and airborne particles floating through your home.
Keep reading to learn why, in Calgary’s dry, often dusty climate, maintaining your furnace filter is essential for cleaner air, a more efficient system, and a healthier living space.
Why Furnace Filter Maintenance Matters
A neglected filter impacts your comfort, energy bills, and the lifespan of your furnace. Here’s how:
Air Quality
Your furnace filter traps dust, pollen, pet dander, and bacteria before they circulate through your vents. When it’s dirty, those particles slip through, triggering allergies, aggravating asthma, and leaving your home feeling stale.
System Protection
When the filter clogs, airflow drops, and your furnace strains to compensate. That extra effort can cause overheating or even mechanical failure.
Efficiency
A clean filter allows air to move freely, helping your furnace maintain a consistent temperature.
Comparing Common Filter Types
Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common furnace filter types:
Fibreglass Filters
Fibreglass filters catch large debris, such as lint and dust, but won’t trap fine particles, like pollen or smoke. They’re suitable for short-term use or homes without allergy concerns, but not ideal for improving air quality.
Pleated Filters
Pleated filters feature dense material that traps more contaminants while maintaining unrestricted airflow. For most Calgary homes, pleated filters effectively handle dust, dander, and seasonal allergens.
HEPA Filters
High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters capture up to 99.97% of particles, including smoke, mould spores, and bacteria. They’re best for households with allergy sufferers or anyone wanting hospital-grade air quality. Not all furnaces can handle HEPA filters, so professional guidance is key before installing one.
How Often Should You Replace Your Filter?
Most filters need replacing every one to three months, but that depends on your home. Pets, renovations, or high dust levels can cause filters to clog more quickly. If the filter appears grey or coated in debris, replace it — waiting too long can reduce airflow and compromise air quality quickly.
Tips for Effective Filter Maintenance
These quick, low-effort habits can help you reduce the risk of needing furnace repair in Calgary:
- Set a reminder: Mark your calendar or set phone alerts to check the filter monthly.
- Stock up: Keep replacement filters on hand so you can change them right away when needed.
- Check the fit: Always use the correct filter size to avoid gaps where unfiltered air can slip through.
- Schedule annual maintenance: Professional furnace inspections ensure your system and filter are working together efficiently.
Breathing Clean Air Starts With a Clean Filter
Think of your furnace filter as your home’s lungs. When it’s clogged, everything feels a little off.
At BVCM, we help Calgary homeowners keep their systems running efficiently. Whether you need a professional tune-up, filter replacement advice, or
comprehensive HVAC service, our experts make it easy to maintain your home's comfort.
Contact BVCM today
to schedule your furnace inspection or maintenance service today.
