Use reusable AC and furnace filters6 of 12How many times have you put off changing out the filter on your heating, ventilating and air-conditioning system because you didn't want to buy a new filter?Problem is, waiting a long time to change your filter makes your HVAC system less efficient and costs you more in electricity. Dirt and neglect can even cause your expensive HVAC unit to die an untimely death, said Maria Vargas, spokeswoman for the EPA's Energy Star program. Instead, spend a little more to get a reusable filter than you can simply hose off when it gets clogged up with dust and other particles.Using a permanent filter, you'll save money in the long run, cut your utility bill and prolong the life of your HVAC unit. If the disposable AC filters that must be changed every three months are around $4 each, you can recoup the $20 to $40 cost of a permanent filter in as little as 15 months.<< Back to the Frugal Living Guide. Related Articles:Save money on groceries10 ways to save on carsTweet for sweet dealsGroup buying saves moneyRelated Links:331 ways to cut costsSaving goals calculator100 tips to help you saveSaving on foodadvertisement
How many times have you put off changing out the filter on your heating, ventilating and air-conditioning system because you didn't want to buy a new filter?
Problem is, waiting a long time to change your filter makes your HVAC system less efficient and costs you more in electricity. Dirt and neglect can even cause your expensive HVAC unit to die an untimely death, said Maria Vargas, spokeswoman for the EPA's Energy Star program. Instead, spend a little more to get a reusable filter than you can simply hose off when it gets clogged up with dust and other particles.
Using a permanent filter, you'll save money in the long run, cut your utility bill and prolong the life of your HVAC unit. If the disposable AC filters that must be changed every three months are around $4 each, you can recoup the $20 to $40 cost of a permanent filter in as little as 15 months.
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