The Small Filter That Makes a Big Difference
A simple task that saves you money, stress, and chilly winter nights.
When I lived in Salt Lake City for a couple of years, I got my first real taste of how brutal winter can be.
Two years of icy mornings, snow-covered driveways, and nights where the heater felt like the most important thing in the world taught me one very valuable lesson: don’t overlook the little stuff.
In my case, that “little stuff” was a furnace filter.
I didn’t think much about it at first. It was out of sight, tucked away behind a vent cover that required moving a ladder, a few storage bins, and maybe a chair just to reach. Easy to forget, easy to ignore.
But one winter, my house felt drafty no matter how high I cranked the heat. My energy bill doubled, and the furnace sounded like it was working overtime.
Finally, I pulled out the filter… and it was so clogged it looked like a piece of carpet.
That $15 filter almost cost me a $3,000 furnace repair - and a very cold family.
Why Your Filter Matters More Than You Think
Your furnace and AC filter aren’t just about keeping dust out of the air.
They’re the frontline defense for your entire system and your family’s comfort.
When a filter gets too dirty, two big problems happen:
Your system works way harder than it should. This means higher energy bills and added strain on expensive components.
Your air quality tanks. Dust, allergens, and pet hair don’t get trapped—they get recirculated.
A clogged filter is like trying to breathe through a wet paper towel. Everything struggles, and something eventually gives out.
How Often Should You Change It?
It depends on your home and lifestyle:
Standard rule: Every 90 days
If you have pets or allergies: Every 30–60 days
During heavy-use seasons (cold winters or blazing summers): Stick closer to 30 days
I’ve found a great guide from Superior Water & Air that explains why this matters and how to choose the right filter for your setup.
My “Set It and Forget It” Trick
The hardest part isn’t swapping the filter—it’s remembering to do it.
Here’s my simple system:
Buy a 3-pack of filters so you always have backups.
Write the install date right on the filter edge with a Sharpie.
Set a recurring reminder on your phone for the first Saturday of the month.
By the time my coffee’s done brewing, I’ve swapped the filter, checked a couple of other things, and moved on with my day. It takes five minutes and saves hundreds in repairs and energy costs.
The Seasonal Sweep
I like to pair my filter change with a quick “sanity sweep” around the house:
Test smoke and CO detectors
Swap fridge water filters
Replace batteries in thermostat and security panels
Walk around outside at night to check driveway and motion lights
These are tiny tasks you’ll never think about until something fails at the exact wrong time, like during a blizzard or right before a big holiday.
Why It’s Worth It
Your furnace and AC are two of the most expensive systems in your home.
Changing a filter regularly costs a few bucks and a few minutes of effort.
Skipping it? That can cost thousands and leave your family shivering on the coldest night of the year.
After two years in Salt Lake City winters, this lesson stuck with me:
Don’t wait for the big breakdowns. Stay ahead of the little things, and you’ll avoid the disasters.
And for me, it all starts with a single, simple filter swap.