Last Updated on July 4, 2025 by The Insurance Pros

🔧 Why Changing Your Furnace Filter Saves You Money & Hassles

Infographic showing how to change a furnace filter with four simple steps: turn off HVAC, locate filter, check size, and insert correctly.
Changing your furnace filter isn’t just about efficient heating; it’s a smart insurance move too. Clean filters keep your HVAC system running smoothly, reduce breakdowns, and help avoid preventable insurance claims. In Michigan’s seasons of cold winters and humid summers, regular filter changes mean fewer risks and healthier homes.

📥 Download the Furnace Filter Checklist Infographic

Want a quick reference to keep on hand? Download our printable infographic that walks you through the four essential steps to changing your furnace filter correctly. It’s perfect for taping near your HVAC system or adding to your seasonal maintenance checklist.

📄 Download Infographic (PDF)

How Often Should You Change Your Furnace Filter?

  • 1–2″ filters: swap every 1–3 months
  • 3–4″ filters: every 6–9 months
  • 5–6″ filters: every 9–12 months

Thicker filters capture more dust and require less frequent replacement. Check your filter monthly; if it looks grey or blocks light, it’s time for a change.

Choosing the Right Size & Orientation

Always use the size recommended by your furnace manufacturer. Never stack filters or use the wrong thickness; it can restrict airflow and damage the blower. Please ensure that the airflow arrow on the filter is directed toward the furnace during installation.

Benefits Beyond Efficiency

  • Extend your HVAC lifespan: Clogged filters make your system work harder, resulting in wear and tear.
  • Improve indoor air quality: Filters trap dust, pollen, and mold spores, which is beneficial for allergy and asthma sufferers.
  • Avoid expensive repairs or claims: If you neglect your filter, it could result in breakdowns that your homeowners insurance may not cover.

Most Michigan home insurance policies cover sudden, accidental damage, not damage caused by lack of maintenance. Keeping your system clean could help avoid denied claims.

How Filter Maintenance Helps with Insurance

  • Reduce claim risk: Insurers may reject claims or drop coverage if you neglect routine home maintenance.
  • Keep documentation: Track your filter replacements. In case of HVAC damage, maintenance records can help validate your claim.

Step-by-Step Filter Replacement Guide

  1. Turn off your HVAC system.
  2. Locate the air filter (typically near the return air duct or blower compartment).
  3. Check the size printed on the old filter’s edge.
  4. Insert the new filter with the airflow arrow pointing toward the furnace.
  5. Please turn the system back on and kindly set a reminder for the next change.

Best Filters to Use

Pleated filters rated MERV 8–13 offer great filtration without restricting airflow. If you have pets or allergies, consider filters with higher MERV ratings.

🛒 Shop Recommended Furnace Filters on Amazon

Final Word

Routine filter changes protect your HVAC system, improve air quality, and reduce the risk of denied insurance claims. Pair this simple habit with other seasonal maintenance like gutter cleaning or smoke detector checks for a safer, more efficient home.

This season is also an ideal moment to replace the batteries in your smoke detector.