Understanding Your Home’s First Line of Defense
When it comes to maintaining your heating system, one of the most crucial components is often the most overlooked: the furnace filter. At Four Winds Custom Heating and Air Conditioning, we’ve seen how proper filter maintenance can make a significant difference in your home’s air quality and system efficiency.
Why Furnace Filters Matter
Your furnace filter serves multiple purposes:
- Protecting your HVAC equipment from debris
- Improving indoor air quality
- Maintaining system efficiency
- Reducing energy costs
Choosing the Right Filter
Filter options vary by MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating, which indicates how effectively they trap particles. For most residential systems, we recommend filters with MERV ratings between 8 and 13.
Maintenance Schedule
The general rule of thumb for filter replacement is:
- 1-inch filters: Every 1-3 months
- 4-inch filters: Every 6-12 months
- Homes with pets: More frequent changes needed
Remember, regular filter maintenance is essential for residents in South Bend, Osceola, Mishawaka, Elkhart, and Granger, especially during our intense Indiana winters when heating systems run constantly.
Contact our team today to learn more about proper filter maintenance or to schedule your next furnace service appointment.