If you own a furnace, you’ve no doubt heard the advice: Change the furnace filter regularly, especially during the winter. Whether you heed this sound advice is another matter, so consider this dire but honest warning: The last thing you want to happen is for your furnace to shut down in the middle of a frigid Cincinnati winter. And that’s exactly what your furnace could do if the filter is choked with so much dust and debris that it stalls the motor.

The device that slides in and out of your furnace is designed to protect it from dirt buildup. Like the air filter in your car, the furnace filter prevents dust, dirt and debris from settling in the motor and on other furnace components. It will also keep that same buildup of dust and debris out of your home's air supply.

Poor indoor air quality is just one result of neglecting the furnace filter. A motor that is working harder also consumes more energy, an exertion that will show up on your utility bill. By contrast, a clean filter will:

• Ensure that your furnace runs smoothly, reliably and economically
• Prevent costly furnace repairs
• Extend your furnace's life span 
• Ensure healthier indoor air quality

Filters are not expensive, so keep an extra one handy at all times because you never know when you will need to change the furnace filter. Once every three months is a good rule of thumb, but it pays to check the filter every month, especially during the winter. When you run the furnace continuously, you'll likely need to change the filter more often. Pop the filter out of your furnace and hold it up to sunlight or another bright light. If you can’t see through it, install a new filter.

If you need help learning how to remove, inspect or change your furnace filter, contact Tri-County Heating & Cooling. We've served homeowners in Butler County and Greater Cincinnati since 1969.

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