When winter hits Hailey, Idaho, your furnace works overtime to keep your home warm and comfortable. But did you know that one of the easiest ways to maintain your heating system’s efficiency is by regularly changing the furnace filter? Many homeowners overlook this simple task, leading to increased energy costs, poor indoor air quality, and potential damage to their HVAC system. So, how often should you change your furnace filter? Let’s break it down. Why Changing Your Furnace Filter Matters Your furnace filter traps dust, pet dander, pollen, and other airborne particles, preventing them from circulating through your home. A clean filter ensures proper airflow, reduces strain on your furnace, and improves indoor air quality. Neglecting this maintenance step can cause your system to work harder, leading to higher energy bills and potential breakdowns. How Often Should You Change It? The answer depends on several factors, including filter type, household conditions, and how often you use your furnace. Here’s a general guideline: Basic fiberglass filters: Every 30 days Pleated filters: Every 60–90 days High-efficiency HEPA filters: Every 6–12 months Homes with pets: Every 30–60 days Allergy sufferers: Every 30 days Heavy furnace usage (winter months): Every 30–45 days If your home has multiple occupants, pets, or someone with allergies, it’s best to check the filter monthly and replace it as needed. Signs Your Furnace Filter Needs Replacing Even if you follow a set schedule, your furnace may give you signals that the filter needs to be changed sooner. Look for these signs: Increased Dust in Your Home – If you notice more dust accumulating, your filter may be too clogged to trap particles efficiently. Reduced Airflow – A clogged filter restricts airflow, making your system less effective at heating your home. Higher Energy Bills – If your heating costs are rising without a temperature change, a dirty filter may be making your furnace work harder. Strange Furnace Noises – A struggling system may produce unusual sounds, signaling it’s time for maintenance. Visible Dirt and Debris on the Filter – If your filter looks clogged, it's time to replace it. The Bottom Line Regularly replacing your furnace filter is a simple yet crucial step in maintaining your heating system’s efficiency and prolonging its lifespan. Not only will this improve your indoor air quality, but it will also keep your energy bills in check and prevent costly repairs. Need HVAC Maintenance? Call the Experts! If you’re unsure about your furnace’s condition or need professional maintenance, Evans Plumbing, Heating, and Mechanical is here to help.

When the temperatures drop in Hailey, Idaho, the last thing you want is for your furnace to start blowing cold air. A malfunctioning furnace can quickly turn your cozy home into an icebox, making it crucial to identify and address the issue as soon as possible. Here are some common reasons why your furnace might be blowing cold air and what you can do about it. 1. Your Thermostat Settings Need Adjustment Before assuming the worst, check your thermostat settings. Ensure it is set to "Heat" and not "Fan" or "Cool." If the fan is set to "On," it will blow air continuously, even when the furnace isn't actively heating. Switching the fan to "Auto" allows it to only run when heat is being produced. 2. Your Furnace Filter is Clogged A dirty or clogged furnace filter can restrict airflow and cause the system to overheat. When this happens, your furnace's safety mechanism may shut down the burners, allowing only cold air to circulate. Check your filter and replace it if it's dirty. 3. The Pilot Light is Out If you have an older gas furnace, a blown-out pilot light could be the reason for the lack of heat. Check to see if the pilot light is lit. If it's out, relighting it might solve the problem. However, if it continues to go out, there may be an issue with the thermocouple or gas supply that requires professional assistance. 4. Your Furnace is Overheating An overheating furnace may shut itself down as a safety precaution, leaving only the blower running, which results in cold air blowing through the vents. Common causes of overheating include a clogged filter, blocked vents, or mechanical failures. If replacing the filter doesn't help, it's time to call in an HVAC professional. 5. There’s a Problem with the Gas Supply If your furnace isn't getting enough gas, it won't be able to produce heat. Check other gas appliances in your home to see if they're working properly. If there's an issue with your gas supply, contact your utility company or a licensed HVAC technician. 6. Your Ductwork Has Leaks Leaks in your ductwork can allow warm air to escape before it reaches your living spaces, leaving you with cold air blowing from your vents. If you suspect ductwork issues, an HVAC professional can inspect and seal any leaks to restore efficiency. When to Call a Professional If you've checked your thermostat, changed your filter, and your furnace is still blowing cold air, it's time to call the experts. At Evans Plumbing, Heating, and Mechanical, we provide professional furnace repair services to keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long.