Whether you rent or own a home, you probably use filters to protect the water used in your home and air that comes in from the outside. Both can be impacted by a few factors, including natural allergens, or as we recently experienced, wildfire smoke that traveled to our area.
Changing or cleaning your air filters doesn’t just protect your health at home, it reduces the risk of a possible fire, ensures appliances are performing efficiently, and it’s an easy action that you can do on your own.
Here is a list of filters that you might have in your home:
Heating and cooling air filters
- Furnace filters. These filters need to be changed a few times a year based on the manufacturer’s recommendation. You can buy a pack of these from a local hardware store or online and have them ready to replace seasonally.
- Air conditioner (AC) filters. If you have a ductless heat pump, central air, or window unit, these need to be cleaned monthly or replaced as needed. Air filters ensure that the AC works efficiently and keeps the air in your home fresh and clear. Clogged filters may result in dirty air, a warmer home, and can reduce the lifespan of your unit.
- Dehumidifier. The key thing is to avoid mold or mildew. Check with your manufacturer on what to do if you find either or how to know when it’s time to clean or replace the filter.
Appliances
- Dryer lint filters. If you do laundry, you know that these need to be cleaned frequently. This is a safety risk for a possible fire since dryer lint is flammable. It also helps with the efficiency of the dryer to keep the lint trap clean.
- Vacuum cleaner. You will know when it stops working well, that the filter might be clogged.
- Water filters. Most of these have a warning system that alerts you when it’s time to change the filter, however, it’s a good idea to make a note for yourself when it’s time to change the filter.
- Dishwasher. Even with pre-rinsed dishes, these can get clogged up. Rinse the filter under warm water, scrubbing gently with dish soap and a soft brush to remove grease. These can be cleaned monthly.
- Over range. The hood over your range has a filter that collects airborne grease, smoke, steam, and cooking odors. Soak metal mesh or baffle filters in hot, soapy water with baking soda for 10 to 15 minutes to break down sticky grease. Clean this monthly.
- Microwave over-the-range filters (not countertop versions). Most do not know that these need to have a grease filter and/or charcoal air filter changed regularly.
- Hair dryer. Yep, even your hair dryer has a filter that collects dust and debris.
Checking with your manufacturer is the best way to know how to find, clean, and/or replace the filters in your home. A good tip to keep in mind is when the season changes, maybe your filter needs to change too! Stay healthy and safe!