Guide to Furnace Filter Cleaning

In Calgary, winters are cold and long. That’s why a reliable heating system is essential to maintain comfort in your home. One of the key components of your heating system is the furnace filter, a small but important element that plays a crucial role in improving air quality, reducing energy consumption, and extending the life of your furnace.

Regular furnace filter cleaning ensures that your furnace operates efficiently and doesn’t become clogged with dust, pet dander, and other debris. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about furnace filter cleaning for Calgary homes.

Understanding Furnace Filters in Calgary Homes

The furnace filter is an integral part of your heating system. Its primary function is to trap dust, dirt, pet dander, and other contaminants that could otherwise circulate through your home’s air. In Calgary, where hard water and dust can quickly accumulate, keeping your furnace filter clean is essential.

There are several types of furnace filters available:

• Fiberglass Filters: These are the most basic and affordable type of filter, but they offer less filtration power. They are good for catching large particles but less effective for smaller contaminants.
• Pleated Filters: These filters offer better filtration capacity and last longer than fiberglass filters. They are commonly used in homes where air quality is a priority.
• HEPA Filters: These high-efficiency filters trap very small particles and are best suited for homes where members suffer from allergies or respiratory issues.

Furnace filter cleaning helps maintain good airflow and to keep your heating system running at peak efficiency. Keeping the furnace filter clean will help reduce energy consumption and improve air quality indoors.

Why Furnace Filter Cleaning is Crucial for Calgary Homes

Regular furnace filter cleaning improves the efficiency of your heating system, but also for the health and comfort of your home. Here are the main reasons why cleaning your furnace filter should be a priority:

• Improved Air Quality: A clogged filter cannot trap contaminants, leading to poor indoor air quality. In Calgary’s dry winters, the air can become even drier, making it crucial to have clean filters to keep dust and allergens at bay. This is especially important for families with pets or individuals who suffer from respiratory issues such as asthma or allergies.
• Increased Furnace Efficiency: A clean furnace filter allows your furnace to work as efficiently as possible by ensuring that air flows smoothly through the system. A clogged or dirty filter restricts airflow, forcing the furnace to work harder, leading to higher energy consumption and increased heating costs. Regular furnace filter cleaning helps prevent these issues and reduce your energy bills.
• Prevention of Costly Repairs: A clogged filter can cause strain on your heating system, leading to potential breakdowns. Over time, the extra load can cause components like the blower motor to overheat or wear out prematurely. By cleaning or replacing the filter regularly, you reduce the risk of costly repairs and extend the lifespan of your furnace.

How to Clean Furnace Filters in Calgary

Cleaning your furnace filter is a simple task that can be done by homeowners to maintain the efficiency of their heating system. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cleaning your filter:

1. Turn Off the Furnace: Make sure your furnace is turned off before performing any maintenance tasks.
2. Locate the Furnace Filter: The filter is usually near the air intake of the furnace. In many systems, you’ll need to remove a panel or cover to access the filter.
3. Remove the Filter: Carefully pull out the filter, noting the direction of the airflow arrows, which are usually printed on the side of the filter. This will help you install the new or cleaned filter correctly.
4. Inspect the Filter: If the filter is heavily clogged with dirt and debris, it may need to be replaced. Fiberglass filters can be cleaned with water, but pleated and HEPA filters should generally be replaced if they are too dirty.
5. Clean the Filter (If Applicable): If your filter is washable, rinse it under warm water and scrub it gently with a soft brush to remove any debris. For fiberglass filters, you can rinse them off with water, while pleated filters should be replaced. Allow the filter to dry completely before reinserting it.
6. Reinstall the Filter: Once the filter is clean or replaced, reinstall it, making sure the airflow arrows are pointing in the correct direction.
7. Turn the Furnace Back On: Once the filter is securely in place, turn the furnace back on and check for proper airflow.

How Often Should Furnace Filters Be Cleaned in Calgary?

The frequency of furnace filter cleaning depends on several factors, including the type of filter, the size of your home, the number of occupants, and whether you have pets. In general:

• Fiberglass filters should be replaced every 1-3 months.
• Pleated filters typically need replacement every 3-6 months.
• HEPA filters can last 6 months to a year, but should be checked regularly for debris buildup.

If your home has multiple pets or you live in a particularly dusty area, you may need to clean or replace your filter more often. In Calgary, where dry air can lead to increased dust, you might need to clean your filters every 1-2 months during the colder months when your furnace is running more frequently.

Benefits of Regular Furnace Filter Cleaning in Calgary

Regular furnace filter cleaning comes with several key benefits for homeowners in Calgary:

• Improved Furnace Efficiency: Clean filters ensure that air flows freely through the furnace, helping it run more efficiently. This leads to lower energy costs and improved overall furnace performance.
• Better Indoor Air Quality: Calgary’s winters can leave the air feeling dry and dusty. Clean furnace filters help prevent allergens, dust, and pet dander from circulating in the air, improving indoor air quality and making your home healthier for you and your family.
• Longer Furnace Lifespan: By reducing strain on your furnace, regular filter cleaning helps to extend its lifespan. This means fewer repairs and a lower likelihood of premature furnace replacement.
• Prevention of Breakdowns: Clogged filters can cause the furnace to overheat or malfunction. Cleaning or replacing the filter regularly helps avoid unnecessary breakdowns, ensuring your furnace continues to work efficiently when you need it most.

Professional Furnace Filter Cleaning Services in Calgary

While DIY furnace filter cleaning is simple and effective for regular maintenance, some situations call for professional help. A professional HVAC technician can:

• Inspect and Clean: A technician will thoroughly inspect your furnace, ensuring that the filter and other components are working properly.
• Advanced Maintenance: Professionals can clean other parts of your furnace, such as the blower motor or ductwork, that are not easily accessible for DIY cleaning.
• Expert Advice: HVAC professionals can offer recommendations on the best type of furnace filter for your home’s needs, considering factors like air quality, efficiency, and family health.

Get Your Furnace Filters Cleaned Today

At Mr. Mike’s Plumbing and Heating, we provide expert furnace filter cleaning services in Calgary. Our experienced team can help you maintain your heating system. Contact us today at