Filter-Nomics 101

Let’s get the boring stuff out of the way. Call it a necessary evil, but I have to bring up some of the most common over-looked “money-suckers”. 

We all change all of our filters on a regular basis right? So I don’t need to mention how changing your cars’ oil filter every 3,000 miles will help keep the engine clean and prolong the life of your car? Or how changing the air-filter every 2 years will increase power and decrease gas mileage?

Random Retro Mama Fact: The number 1 reason for hot-tub service calls are dirty filters!  

It’s probably unnecessary to mention how changing (or cleaning a reusable) AC / furnace filter monthly will:

• Add years to your furnace
• Reduce the amount of energy the unit needs to function (decreasing your gas/electric bill) 
• Will help keep the air in your home clean. 
• Prevent maintenance fees
  

If your furnace or AC seems to be running longer than it should, replace the air filter before you call maintenance. It might surprise you!

Now, on to less common filters…does your vacuum not function like it used to? Clean the filters at least once a month. Both you AND the vacuum will use less energy!

Laundry taking too long to dry? You will be shocked at how much lint can gather in just a couple of months. This is a tricky one, but is necessary to increase the life of your dryer, reduce energy costs and most importantly to prevent a fire: 

• UNPLUG your dryer and position it so you can access the back.
• Unhook the ventilation duct from the dryer.
• Clean the duct-work using a long-handled lint-removal brush.
• Next, look for a metal grate or access panel on the back of your dryer that is held in place with screws. 
• Remove the screws. 
• With a flashlight, look inside to see how much lint is actually collecting in your dryer. 
• To remove it, use the hose attachment on your vacuum cleaner or the lint-removal brush. 
• Be careful not to damage the belt or motor of your dryer!