KEEP YOUR FUNACE WORKING EFFICIENTLY WITH REGULAR FILTER MAINTENANCE

October 19, 2022

Share this article

One of the most important things you should do for your furnace is to keep the filter on it clean. Depending on the filter type, this means either washing or changing it frequently. The older the filter, the more contaminated it will be. Among other problems, a clogged filter makes the system work harder and can shorten the lifespan of your furnace. This post will cover a few signs that indicate when a filter needs to be changed.

How Often Should I Check the Filter?

Filters get dirty over time and require regular maintenance to keep working correctly. You should check the filters on your furnace at least once every three months by taking off the cover on the furnace. If you have pets or live in a dusty environment, you should check the filters more often.


If the filter is visibly dirty, especially if there are signs of mold or milder, it’s time to take action. If you use a disposable filter, simply toss the old one out and put a new one in.


If you use a permanent filter, you can remove it and simply flush it out with water. One advantage of permanent filters is that you can clean them frequently. This might be especially helpful if someone in the home suffers from allergies or has respiratory issues. If the filter looks grimy or has any mold or mildew on it, you can wash it with mild soap and warm water.

Furnace Not as Efficient as It Once Was

A clogged filter stops airflow. That results in your furnace having to work harder to move air around your house, thus consuming more energy. If your furnace seems to have to run longer than before, it could be a sign that your filter needs attention.

System Makes Strange Noises or Loud Popping Sounds

If you notice that your furnace is making a lot of noise during the winter, it could indicate that your old filter needs to be changed. When the filter is clogged, the pressure within the system changes. If you hear screeching or whistling noises, check the filter before deciding your house is haunted.

Indoor Air Quality Is Deteriorating

Cleaner air means a healthier home. If your furnace filter is dirty, the air quality in your house can become less than desirable. This is because the filter has no more capacity to trap dirt, dust, dander, and other allergens. Check the filter if you’re noticing more dust around your home or if your allergies are getting worse (when environmental factors stay the same).

Your Home Smells Moldy

If you’re noticing a moldy or mildewy smell, this could indicate that the filter needs to be changed. This is especially true if the spell seems to be widespread and not limited to a specific place like the bathroom or under a sink.


Mold can grow on your furnace filter, especially if you live in a humid area. This will then spread mold spores throughout the home.


Mold can also grow inside the system. If you neglect to keep up with filter maintenance, the reduced airflow could exacerbate a mold problem. If you still notice a widespread moldy smell after cleaning or replacing the filter, you may need your furnace serviced by a professional.

Turn to AAA Brothers Heating & Air Conditioning for Furnace Maintenance

If you are ready for furnace maintenance, call the professionals at AAA Brothers Heating & Air Conditioning. We have over 20 years of experience servicing furnaces, and our technicians have the tools and training to do it right.


We offer convenient preventive maintenance plans. It’s best to have your system serviced at least annually. By scheduling service before winter hits, you can reduce the chance of it breaking down when you need it the most. It might be too late once you start experiencing some of these heater issues. Thats why you want to make sure you prioritize regular maintenance.


If you’re looking for furnace repair or replacement in Huntingdon Valley and the surrounding areas, we do that too. Our team regularly trains on the latest equipment, and our technicians have the most up-to-date certifications. This allows us to install new equipment to save thousands of energy costs over the system’s lifespan. We also install, repair, and maintain air conditioning systems. Our other services include indoor air quality, water heater installation, and home generators.


Keep your family comfortable with furnace maintenance from AAA Brothers Heating & Air Conditioning. We are ready to get started on your home today. Call AAA Brothers Heating & Air Conditioning or visit us online to get started.



Recent Posts

A couple consults with a service technician near an air conditioning unit outside.
October 6, 2025
Winters in Huntingdon Valley, PA often bring below-freezing temperatures, crisp winds, and moderate snow. When the mercury plummets, having a functional furnace is important. Your heating system keeps your pipes from freezing and protects your household from hypothermia, frostnip, and other cold-related illnesses. Fortunately, you can prevent dangerous mid-winter breakdowns with fall furnace maintenance. Read on to find out how.
Two men examining a furnace in a utility closet. One gestures, explaining the unit.
September 2, 2025
Before the cold winter season sets in, it’s vital to properly prepare your home for seasonal changes. While pulling out your snow shovels and adding more blankets to your couch are helpful, one thing you never want to forget to prep is your heating system. Below, we’ll discuss the key steps every homeowner must take to have a well-functioning, efficient furnace by the time winter blows in.
August 6, 2025
UV lighting technology has a surprising number of applications in HVAC systems. You can install UV lights in ventilation, heating, and air conditioning systems, among others. A special variant known as UV-C light has the handy effect of neutralizing pathogens that linger throughout conventional HVAC setups. At AAA Brothers Heating & Air Conditioning, we specialize in UV light HVAC installations for homeowners and businesses in Huntingdon Valley, PA. Read on to learn about all the surprising benefits that emerge when you incorporate UV lighting into your HVAC system.
July 2, 2025
You might think changing the air filter on the HVAC is only important for air quality. But the truth is, the filter impacts the system’s energy efficiency and overall performance in several ways. Forgetting to change the filter every so often will do much more than increase dust buildup and allergy flare-ups. Let’s break down how clean filters boost your HVAC system’s performance and help it last longer.
June 16, 2025
Air conditioning is the biggest expense for many homeowners during the summer months. The fact that air conditioning can be so costly means you should always take some steps to ensure your AC continues working efficiently and to try and limit the amount of work it has to do.
May 3, 2025
The most significant early sign of spring in Huntingdon Valley, PA, is the rise in temperature. As the days get warmer, you want to stay comfortable in your home. That is when your attention will turn to your home’s air conditioning. It has probably been several months since you last turned on the AC. If you have lingering concerns with your system from the last time you turned it on, now is the time to replace your AC before summer hits and those rising temperatures become a real problem. The following are some important reasons you need to consider replacing your air conditioner before summer hits.
April 2, 2025
Your HVAC system is vital for keeping your family comfortable throughout the year. HVAC systems have many components and require regular maintenance to keep them working efficiently. Although it costs money to schedule annual HVAC maintenance, it can save you long-term. AAA Brothers Heating & Air Conditioning in Huntingdon Valley, PA wants you to understand the benefits of seeking routine HVAC maintenance and how it can save you money in the long-term.
March 1, 2025
The weather in Huntingdon Valley, PA tends to experience some pretty high temperatures in the summer. Having a properly functioning cooling system is key to staying comfortable and keeping your cooling costs affordable. There are several things you can do in the spring to ensure the AC performs optimally throughout the whole summer.
February 3, 2025
The winter season can be tough. Colder temperatures and snow can be challenging enough, but closed indoor conditions can make it difficult to breathe and trigger allergic reactions. Luckily, there are steps you can take to improve your indoor air quality this winter.
January 2, 2025
Pennsylvania’s weather is temperamental, and since the state has quite an elevation difference, winters can be brutal. Therefore, it is important to ensure that your HVAC system can handle the cold winter’s demands. Without proper preparations for the winter, energy costs can be higher, especially if a part of your HVAC system malfunctions.
Show More