Ignoring an air filter does nothing to benefit anyone in Cincinnati, except that it saves you from buying a replacement filter. To prevent gambling with the life of your furnace and the quality of your air, simply check the filter once a month and change it when it starts to show signs that it's full. And never let the filter go longer than 3 months without being changed.

By implementing this simple tip, you enjoy many benefits. A clean filter:

• Promotes a long life for your furnace. Dirty air filters restrict airflow and make the furnace work harder. This can put more strain on the furnace blower and can cause the fan motor to burn out or the system to overheat and fail. Filters cost very little compared to a replacement furnace.
• Supports energy savings. When air travels through the system efficiently, less energy is consumed. Changing the air filter regularly is an easy way to decrease energy bills.
• Improves the air quality in your home. A clogged air filter can’t trap much in the way of airborne particles, so allergies and asthma can become aggravated, especially in children. Support your family’s health by changing the filter when it starts to become clogged with debris.
• Decreases the cost of operation. Since less energy is used, you pay less to heat your home when a clean air filter is installed. Once you change out a clogged filter, you should see an immediate decrease in your heating equipment's energy consumption.
• Reduces your carbon footprint. Everyone is doing what they can today to decrease their environmental impact. With a clean filter optimizing furnace efficiency, you'll use fewer fossil fuels to heat your home, and you'll take one step closer to being environmentally responsible.

Changing the air filter is an easy step to take that eliminates the risk of early system failure, poor health of family members, and higher energy bills. For more information about furnace filters, please contact Tri-County Heating & Cooling for your Greater Cincinnati area home. Feel free to ask us your questions to receive expert advice your on home-comfort and energy-efficiency concerns.

Air filter image via Shutterstock.