It’s wintertime, and that means it’s also time to crank up the heat in your home. But with all the warmth comes dry air, which can lead to all sorts of uncomfortable side effects like chapped skin, static electricity, and even respiratory problems. That’s where your furnace humidifier comes in – it’s a handy attachment that adds moisture to the air and alleviates those issues. However, to keep it functioning at its best, it needs regular maintenance – specifically, regular filter changes. In this blog post, we’ll go over everything you need to know about changing your furnace humidifier filters.
First things first: what exactly is a furnace humidifier filter? Also called a water filter, water panel, evaporator pad, or humidifier filter, this component is responsible for trapping the impurities in your home’s water supply before it’s turned into water vapor and released into the air. Over time, it can become clogged with minerals like calcium and magnesium, affecting its ability to function properly. That’s why it’s important to change your humidifier filter regularly – how often depends on a few factors.
One factor to consider is the hardness of your water. Hard water has a higher mineral content, which means your filter will likely need to be changed more often. You can find out how hard your water is by contacting your local water utility or having it tested by a professional. Another factor is how often you use your humidifier – the more you use it, the more frequently you’ll need to change the filter. As a general rule of thumb, most manufacturers recommend changing your filter once or twice a year.
Of course, there are some signs that may indicate you need to change your filter sooner. If you start to notice a buildup of white dust around your home, for example, that’s a sign that your filter isn’t doing its job effectively. Similarly, if you begin to notice a musty or unpleasant smell coming from your humidifier, that’s a sign that it’s time for a change. Finally, if your humidifier starts to make strange noises or stops working altogether, it’s definitely time for a new filter.
So, how do you change your furnace humidifier filter? The process can vary depending on the make and model of your humidifier, but in general, it’s a fairly simple process. First, turn off your furnace and unplug your humidifier – you don’t want to risk electrocution while you’re working on it. Locate your humidifier’s filter compartment – this is usually found on the front or side of the unit. Remove the old filter and dispose of it properly. Install the new filter, making sure that it’s facing the right direction according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Finally, plug your humidifier back in and turn on your furnace – your home should be back to its comfortable, humid self in no time.
Now that you know how important it is to change your furnace humidifier filter regularly, you can rest assured that you’re doing everything you can to keep your home’s air clean and healthy. If you’re unsure about how often you should be changing your filter or if you’re having trouble with your humidifier in general, don’t hesitate to contact the professionals at Steve Patrick Air – we’re here to help you through all your heating and cooling needs. Call us today at 559-224-1729 and let us help you breathe easy this winter!
