How to Clean Furnace Air Filters

Maintaining a clean air filter in your furnace is important for a variety of reasons. A clean air filter will reduce the energy usage of your furnace and increase its efficiency. A well-maintained furnace will also have a longer lifespan. In general, you should clean your furnace air filters every two to four months, depending on the level of pollution in your area.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Screwdriver
• Hose or shower

1. Turn off your HVAC system before removing the air filter. Open the service panel. This may require a screwdriver, depending on your model. Locate the air filter near the intake-outtake blower.

2. Identify the type of furnace filter that you have. A disposable furnace filter will have a cardboard frame, while a permanent filter will have a metal or fiberglass frame. If you have a disposable filter, note the size of the filter and purchase a replacement. You can then discard the old filter and insert the new one. This should be done once a month. If you have a reusable filter, proceed to the next step.

3. Examine the filter to determine whether it needs to be cleaned. If you cannot see through the filter because of the accumulated dust and dirt, it needs a good cleaning. Over time, you should be able to determine the number of months that your filter can last between cleanings.

4. Remove the reusable air filter from the furnace. Take the filter outside and rinse it thoroughly with a hose. If it is too cold outside, rinse the filter out in the bathtub using the shower. Rinse the filter until the water runs clear.

5. Allow the filter to air dry. Once it is completely dry, replace it in the furnace, close the service panel and turn the HVAC system back on.

Tips & Warnings

• In the winter, the air filter may need to be changed as often as once a month. In areas with little pollution you may be able to last as long as four months between cleanings. In very polluted areas, clean your filter at least once every two months.