Life in the midwest means facing a variety of weather patterns. This leads to dirt and dust spreading everywhere, even into your homes. As a homeowner, it’s important to make sure your furnace will keep your family warm and comfortable throughout the year. With chilly winters on the horizon, it’s important to check in on your furnace and make sure it’s running properly. 

Furnace filters play a vital role in maintaining a home’s indoor air quality and ensuring furnaces run efficiently. In this blog, we’ll answer some common questions about furnace filters, their importance, and its benefit to HVAC maintenance.

Why is a Furnace Filter Important?

Furnace filters are a crucial component of your HVAC system. Its primary job is to trap dust, dirt, pet hair, and other airborne particles that circulate through your home. Not only do filters improve your indoor air quality and protect your family’s health, but they also prevent particles from building up and causing damage in your furnace. 

Luckily, furnace filters are easy to reach and the replacement process is relatively simple. 

What are the Different Types of Furnace Filters?

There are various styles and efficiency levels of furnace filters, and each is designed to capture different sized particles. The most common furnaces used in Ohio are gas or electrical. The popular filters to pair these with are fiberglass or pleated. Below are more details about each kind of filter. 

• Pleated filters: These are possibly the most common filters used for furnaces. These filters have a pleated design that increases their surface area, allowing them to more efficiently capture smaller particles like allergens and dust mites. 
• Fiberglass filters: This is typically the most basic and affordable type of filter. They’re effective in capturing larger particles but weaker at filtering out smaller ones. Using these filters can often lead to more frequent replacements.
• Electrostatic filters: These filters use static electricity to attract and trap particles. They’re more efficient than fiberglass filters and can last longer.
• HEPA filters: High-efficiency particulate arrestance (HEPA) filters are the gold standard for air filtration. They can remove up to 99.97% of airborne particles, making them ideal for people with allergies or respiratory sensitivities.

How Often Should I Replace My Furnace Filter?

This is a question we get a lot! The common practice is to switch out your furnace filter every 3 months. However, several factors can influence your personal timeline for replacements, including:

• The type of filter you use: Lower-efficiency filters need to be replaced more frequently than higher-efficiency filters. Along with this, larger filters typically have longer lifespans and smaller filters need to be changed more often.
• The level of air pollution in your home: If you have pets, live in a dusty area, or have family members with allergies, you may need to change your filter more often.
• How often you use your furnace: If your furnace is running constantly during the winter,  you’ll need to replace the filter more frequently.
  • However, this could simply mean replacing the filter at the start of winter and then at the end.

Can I Clean and Reuse My Furnace Filter?

An interesting product that also exists in the furnace filter market are reusable filters. While these products  might seem like a cheaper expenditure in the long run, they have low efficiency ratings, meaning a lower benefit to your home.

Some filters, like electrostatic filters, can be cleaned and reused. However, most disposable filters, such as fiberglass and pleated filters, are not designed to be cleaned and should be replaced. Attempting to clean these filters can damage them and reduce their effectiveness. 

How Can I Tell If I Need to Replace My Filters?

The signs for replacing your filter can be pretty obvious. 

• Discoloration: If your filter has drastically changed colors since its initial installation, this may be a sign it’s time for a change. 
• Buildup of dust: If you start to notice a large buildup of dust and dirt on your filter, or around your home, it’s time to replace your filter. Similar to this, if you begin to feel the need to dust your home more frequently, take a look at your filter and start considering a replacement. 

What Happens If I Don’t Change My Furnace Filter?

Neglecting to change furnace filters can lead to a number of problems.

• Reduced indoor air quality: The dust, allergens, and other pollutants we previously talked about will start circulating in your home, creating a potentially aggravating environment for allergies and respiratory problems.
• Decreased furnace efficiency: A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing your furnace to work harder and consume more energy. This can lead to higher energy bills and premature wear and tear on your system.
  • Clogged filters are a common problem in the Columbus area, so make sure that when you are purchasing new filters, their efficiency ratings are high, and can work for multiple months. 
• Overheating and breakdowns: In severe cases, a dirty filter can cause your furnace to overheat and shut down, requiring costly repairs.
  • While we don’t want this to happen, TemperaturePro Columbus can provide the necessary services to bring your furnace back to its proper state.

What Size Filter Do I Need?

This is perhaps the easiest step in the replacement process. While furnace filters come in various sizes, to determine the right size for your furnace, you can either check the dimensions of the old filter, or check the dimensions listed on the actual filter slot on your furnace. 

Tips for Choosing the Right Furnace Filter

• Consider your needs: Think about your family’s health and any specific air quality concerns you may have. Pleated filters will provide wide coverage, but HEPA filters have the highest efficiency. 
• Check the MERV rating: The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating indicates a filter’s efficiency. Higher MERV ratings mean better filtration.
• Choose a filter that fits your budget: While HEPA filters offer the best filtration, they can be more expensive. Fiberglass filters are less expensive, but require more frequent replacements. Depending on the MERV rating, filters can range from $20 to $150. 

If I Don’t Want to Change My Filter, Who Can? 

If you have any further questions about furnace filters or need assistance choosing the right one, don’t hesitate to contact the experts at TemperaturePro Columbus. We’re here to help keep your home comfortable and air clean all winter long.

Let our experienced technicians take care of your furnace filters and ensure your system is running at peak efficiency. Schedule your furnace maintenance appointment today!

If you’re a homeowner in Columbus, Ohio, and dealing with a troublesome pilot light, you’re not alone! While pilot lights were once the standard in furnaces, they can be a source of frustration when they act up. 

If you’re wondering why your pilot light keeps going out, and whether this presents any hazards, TemperaturePro Columbus is here to help. Let’s dive deeper into why your pilot light might be giving you trouble and when it’s time to call in the experts at TemperaturePro Columbus.

Why is a Pilot Light Important?

In older gas furnaces, the pilot light is a small, continuous flame that ignites the main burners when your thermostat calls for heat. Think of it as the spark that gets your furnace going.

If your pilot light goes out, it can potentially be dangerous, especially with older furnaces, due to potential gas leaks or carbon monoxide buildup.

Common causes your pilot light may go out include a dirty thermocouple, drafts, gas supply issues, or a clogged pilot tube.

Dangers of a Pilot Light Going Out

While modern furnaces have safety features to minimize risks, there are still some potential dangers associated with a pilot light going out:

Gas Leak

• Older Furnaces: If you have an older furnace without a safety shut-off valve, a pilot light going out could lead to a gas leak. Natural gas is flammable and can accumulate in your home, creating a risk of fire or explosion. 
• Faulty Valve: Even with a safety valve, there’s a slight chance it could malfunction and fail to shut off the gas supply completely. 

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

• Incomplete Combustion: If the pilot light goes out while the gas valve is still open, gas can continue to flow and accumulate. When you try to relight it, this could cause a burst of flame or incomplete combustion, leading to the release of carbon monoxide (CO). 
• CO Dangers: CO is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that can be deadly. It prevents your blood from carrying oxygen, leading to symptoms like headaches, dizziness, nausea, and confusion. Prolonged exposure can lead to loss of consciousness and death. 

Reasons Your Pilot Light Keeps Going Out

Here are the most frequent culprits behind a flickering pilot light:

Thermocouple Problems

• Dirty Thermocouple: A thermocouple is a safety device that senses the heat from the pilot light and allows gas to flow. If it’s covered in dust or soot, it might not detect the flame properly, shutting off the gas supply. 
• Bent Thermocouple: If the thermocouple is bent out of position, the pilot light’s flame might not reach it, leading to the same issue. 
• Faulty Thermocouple: Over time, thermocouples can wear out and fail. This means they can no longer accurately sense the heat and will shut off the gas supply even if the pilot light is lit. 

Draft Issues

• Airflow: Drafts from open windows, doors, or even nearby vents can blow out the pilot light. 
• Venting Problems: Issues with your furnace’s venting system can create downdrafts that extinguish the flame. 

Gas Supply Problems

• Low Gas Pressure: If the gas pressure is too low, the pilot light might not get enough fuel to stay lit. This could be due to a problem with the gas line or the gas meter.
• Gas Leaks: A leak in the gas line can reduce the pressure and cause the pilot light to go out. Important: If you suspect a gas leak, leave your home immediately and contact your gas company or emergency services. 

Dirty Pilot Tube

• Clogged Opening: The pilot tube can become clogged with dust, dirt, or debris, restricting the gas flow to the pilot light. 

Other Issues

• Faulty Gas Valve: The gas valve controls the flow of gas to the pilot light. If it’s malfunctioning, it might not supply enough gas or might shut off the gas prematurely. 
• Pilot Orifice Problems: The pilot orifice is a small opening where the gas comes out to light the pilot. If it’s clogged or damaged, the pilot light might not get enough gas. 

What to Do When Your Pilot Light Goes Out

If your pilot light goes out, and you smell gas, evacuate your home immediately and contact your gas company or a trusted HVAC company in Columbus, like TemperaturePro.

If you don’t smell gas, you can try to relight the pilot yourself. Here’s a general guide, but always refer to your furnace’s owner’s manual for specific instructions:

How to Relight Your Pilot Light

1. Gather Your Supplies:

• Owner’s Manual: This will have specific instructions for your furnace model. 
• Long Lighter or Matches: You’ll need a long reach to safely light the pilot. 
• Flashlight: To see clearly in the furnace’s compartment. 

2. Safety First:

• Turn Off the Gas: Locate the gas valve near your furnace and turn it to the “Off” position. Wait a few minutes for any residual gas to dissipate. 
• Turn Off the Power: For electric ignition furnaces, turn off the power to the furnace at the breaker box.

3. Locate the Pilot Light:

• Access Panel: Open the access panel to your furnace’s burner compartment.
• Pilot Assembly: Look for the pilot light assembly. It’s usually near the gas burners and might have a small viewing window.

4. Relight the Pilot:

• Set the Knob: Turn the gas control knob to the “Pilot” setting. 
• Press and Hold: Press and hold the reset button or knob (if applicable).
• Ignite the Flame: While holding the reset button, use your lighter or match to light the pilot light. 
• Maintain the Flame: Keep holding the reset button for 30-60 seconds after the pilot light ignites to allow the thermocouple to heat up. 
• Release the Button: Slowly release the reset button. The pilot light should stay lit.

5. Turn on the Gas:

• Turn the Knob: Turn the gas control knob to the “On” position.
• Check the Burners: If your furnace has an electronic ignition, the main burners should ignite automatically. If not, you might need to follow separate instructions for lighting them.

6. Close the Access Panel:

• Securely Close: Close and secure the access panel to your furnace.

Important Notes:

• If the pilot light won’t stay lit: There might be an underlying issue, such as a dirty thermocouple or a problem with the gas supply. Contact a qualified HVAC technician for assistance.
• If you’re unsure: Don’t hesitate to call a professional. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when dealing with gas appliances.

Remember, safety is paramount. If you have any doubts or encounter difficulties, it’s always best to contact a qualified HVAC technician like TemperaturePro Columbus for expert assistance.

Preventing Your Pilot Light From Going Out

To prevent your pilot light from going out, schedule yearly furnace maintenance. This ensures all parts, including the pilot light and safety mechanisms, are in good working order. A qualified technician will inspect and clean components, identify potential problems, and ensure your furnace operates safely and efficiently.

Protect your household from carbon monoxide by installing CO detectors on every level of your home and outside sleeping areas. Test these detectors regularly and replace the batteries as needed. This simple step can provide early warning of a CO leak, potentially saving lives.

If you have an older furnace with a pilot light, consider upgrading to a newer model with electronic ignition. These modern furnaces are more efficient, eliminating the constant gas consumption of a pilot light. They’re also more reliable and safer, as they eliminate the risks associated with a pilot light going out.

While a pilot light going out isn’t always an immediate emergency, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential risks and take appropriate precautions. If you have any doubts, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and contact a professional.

TemperaturePro Columbus Can Help!

Don’t let a faulty pilot light leave you in the cold! The experienced technicians at TemperaturePro Columbus can diagnose the root cause of your pilot light problems and provide reliable solutions. We can also help you explore more modern and efficient heating options for your Columbus home.

If your pilot light keeps going out, or you’re worried about potential dangers of a faulty pilot light, we’ve got you covered. Contact TemperaturePro Columbus today for expert furnace repair and maintenance!