Saving Energy: Heating & Air Conditioning

Buying New Equipment – Furnace Filters

Changing or cleaning the furnace filter is one of the easiest things you can do to prolong the life of your heating and air conditioning system – and keep it operating efficiently.

Keep in mind that all furnace filters are not created equal – especially if you have allergies, asthma or other respiratory problems.

Types of air filters

HEPA filters, which stands for High Efficiency Particulate Air filters, are the “gold standard.” These filters are used in commercial applications like hospitals, research facilities and electronics manufacturing where clean air is vital. HEPA filters not only block air particles, but also air flow, so they’re not recommended for residential use.

Choosing the right filter

If allergies and respiratory problems aren’t a concern for your family, a disposable or washable filter can be enough to keep your furnace clean. But it’s important to change or clean the filter every month – remember that dust and dirt are the cause of half the repair calls to service technicians!

A pleated filter is a cost-effective option for reducing allergens. These filters cost around $5-$15 each, but are designed to last up to three months. A high-efficiency pleated air filter, shown in the photo at right, costs around $250 to $450. Electronic air cleaners are expensive, ranging from $650 to $850, but they’re the best at removing harmful particles and pollutants from the air. In many cases, the initial cost can be offset with lower medical bills.

Keep the blower fan running

No matter what type of filter you choose, it will work best if you keep the blower fan running continuously.

According to Home Energy magazine, if the fan is set to “auto,” it’s running only 20 percent of the time – meaning your furnace filter will trap only 20 percent of the 50 percent of the particles it’s designed for – resulting in only a 10 percent overall efficiency.

Setting the fan to “on” will also help keep air circulating through your home, preventing the warm air from rising and pooling near the ceiling and increasing your comfort.

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Are you an Alliant Energy customer?

If you’re an Alliant Energy utility customer in Iowa, Minnesota or Wisconsin, you can earn cash back when you purchase new high-efficiency heating and air conditioning equipment.

Looking for an energy-smart heating or air conditioning contractor?

Try Alliant Energy’s online Dealer Locator to find experts in your area.

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Brochures and fact sheets:

Home Ventilation & Indoor Air Quality
By the Home Ventilating Institute

Furnace Filters
By the American Lung Association’s Healthy House program

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Learn more:

Air Filters Clear the Air
By Green Building Source