Introduction

When was the last time you thought about your home’s furnace air filter? If it’s been a while, now is the time to give it some attention. Replacing your furnace air filter regularly is crucial for both your home’s comfort and the efficiency of your HVAC system.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the reasons why changing your furnace air filter is so important. We’ll discuss how a clogged filter can negatively impact your system’s efficiency, your health, and even your budget. We’ll also provide recommendations on how often you should replace your air filter and offer tips for maintaining a clean and efficient HVAC system.

Section 1: The Impact of a Clogged Furnace Air Filter on Efficiency

A clogged furnace air filter can significantly reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system. When dust, dirt, and grime accumulate in the filter, your furnace and air conditioner have to work harder to move air through your home. As a result, your energy bills increase, and your carbon footprint grows.

By replacing your air filter regularly, you can help your system run more efficiently, saving both energy and money. A clean air filter allows for better airflow, ensuring that your HVAC system operates at its full potential.

Section 2: The Link Between Dirty Air Filters and Health Issues

Did you know that a dirty air filter can have a direct impact on your health? When a filter is clogged, it allows dust, dander, and even mold to circulate through your home. Breathing in these contaminants can worsen asthma, allergies, and other respiratory conditions.

To keep your family breathing clean air, it’s essential to replace your air filter regularly. A clean filter traps these harmful particles, preventing them from circulating in your home and improving your indoor air quality.

Section 3: Extending the Life of Your HVAC System

Your HVAC system is a significant investment, and you want it to last as long as possible. Neglecting to change your air filter regularly can shorten its lifespan. When your system has to work harder due to a clogged filter, it can overheat and potentially lead to a complete system failure.

By simply replacing your air filter on a regular basis, you can avoid costly repairs or the need to replace your entire system prematurely. It’s a small maintenance task that can make a big difference in the longevity of your HVAC system.

Section 4: The Cost of Neglecting Air Filter Replacement

While a clogged air filter may not always cause system failure, it can lead to expensive maintenance issues. A blower that stops working or ductwork that requires frequent cleaning due to dust buildup can be avoided with routine air filter replacement.

By allocating a small portion of your budget to regular air filter replacement, you can prevent these costly maintenance problems. It’s a smart investment that can save you money in the long run.

Section 5: A Cleaner Home with a Clean Air Filter

A clean air filter not only benefits your HVAC system and your health but also keeps your home cleaner. When dust and other particles are trapped in the filter, they don’t circulate through your HVAC system and settle on surfaces in your home.

Less dust means less time spent dusting and more time doing the things you love. By regularly replacing your air filter, you can maintain a cleaner and more comfortable living environment.

Section 6: How Often Should You Change Your Air Filter?

Now that you understand the importance of changing your air filter, you may be wondering how often you should do it. The frequency of filter changes depends on various factors such as the type of filter you use and the demand placed on it.

As a general guideline, it is recommended to change your air filter every other month. However, it’s important to evaluate your specific needs and consult with professionals to determine the optimal replacement schedule for your home.

Section 7: Signs that Your Furnace Filter Needs Changing

While the recommended schedule for air filter replacement is helpful, there are certain signs that indicate it’s time to change your filter sooner. Look out for the following indicators:

1. Discoloration: If your filter appears yellow or gray, it’s a clear sign that it’s time for a replacement.
2. Visible dirt and dust buildup: If you can physically see a significant amount of dirt and dust on the filter, it’s time to swap it out.
3. Frequent dusting: If you find yourself dusting more often than usual, it may be a sign that your filter is no longer effectively trapping particles.
4. Longer HVAC cycles: If your HVAC system runs longer than normal or experiences other performance issues, a clogged filter could be the culprit.
5. Uncertainty about the last replacement: If you can’t remember when you last changed your filter, it’s better to err on the side of caution and replace it.

Section 8: Choosing the Right Air Filter for Your Furnace

When it comes to selecting an air filter for your furnace, it’s important to consider your specific needs. Different filters offer varying levels of filtration, measured by the MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating. The higher the MERV rating, the better the filter’s ability to capture airborne particles.

For homes with individuals sensitive to allergens or with high levels of pollution, a filter with a higher MERV rating is recommended. However, it’s essential to strike a balance between filtration efficiency and airflow to avoid putting unnecessary strain on your HVAC system.

Section 9: DIY Air Filter Replacement

Changing your air filter is a simple task that you can easily do yourself. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

1. Turn off your HVAC system: Before replacing your air filter, make sure to turn off your furnace or air conditioner.
2. Locate the filter: Find the filter compartment, which is usually located near the return air duct or blower motor.
3. Remove the old filter: Carefully remove the old filter from its housing, taking note of its size and orientation.
4. Install the new filter: Insert the new filter into the housing, making sure it fits securely.
5. Check for proper installation: Double-check that the filter is correctly aligned and positioned.
6. Turn on your HVAC system: Once the new filter is in place, you can turn your system back on.

Section 10: Regular Maintenance for a Clean and Efficient HVAC System

Replacing your air filter is just one aspect of maintaining a clean and efficient HVAC system. Here are some additional tips to help you keep your system running smoothly:

1. Schedule professional maintenance: Regular professional maintenance ensures that your system is in optimal condition. A trained technician can identify and address any potential issues before they become major problems.
2. Keep your system clean: Regularly clean the areas around your HVAC system to prevent dust and debris from entering it. This includes the outdoor unit, indoor vents, and ductwork.
3. Seal air leaks: Check for any air leaks in your ductwork and seal them to prevent energy loss and reduce strain on your system.
4. Monitor humidity levels: Excessive humidity can encourage mold and mildew growth. Use a dehumidifier if needed to maintain a comfortable and healthy indoor environment.

Section 11: The Environmental Impact of Regular Air Filter Replacement

In addition to the benefits for your home and HVAC system, regularly changing your air filter also has a positive environmental impact. By ensuring that your system runs efficiently, you reduce energy consumption and lower your carbon footprint.

By taking small steps like replacing your air filter regularly, you can contribute to a more sustainable future for yourself and the planet.

Section 12: Conclusion

Regularly changing your furnace air filter is a simple yet essential task that can have a significant impact on your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and overall well-being. By maintaining a clean and efficient HVAC system, you can enjoy cleaner air, lower energy bills, and extend the life of your system.

Make air filter replacement a part of your regular maintenance routine, and consult with professionals to determine the optimal replacement schedule for your specific needs. By taking proactive steps to care for your HVAC system, you can create a healthier and more comfortable living environment for you and your family.

Remember, a clean air filter is a small investment that yields significant returns in terms of comfort, savings, and peace of mind. So don’t overlook this important aspect of home maintenance and start prioritizing regular air filter replacement today. Here are some of the highest-rated Filter Brands.

In the world we live in today, advancements in AI and robotics have transformed the way we work. Automation impacts many industries, which results in severe job loss. However, there are trades that continue to thrive, secure from the rise of AI. Among these trades is the HVAC/R industry.

HVAC/R technicians are highly skilled professionals responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. Despite the advancements in AI, the HVAC industry has continued to grow and the demand for these skilled technicians has increased.

One of the key reasons why the HVAC industry remains safe from automation is the complexity of the work. HVAC technicians must have a deep understanding of various systems, such as electrical, plumbing, and refrigeration, which AI cannot yet replicate. While HVAC systems are a crucial part of achieving energy efficiency in buildings, AI can only control certain aspects of them. Human intervention is still imperative and essential to the proper functioning of these systems.

The demand for skilled HVAC/R technicians is projected to grow in the coming years. As buildings become more complex, HVAC/R systems will become even more critical in achieving energy efficiency. Additionally, HVAC/R technicians are responsible for maintaining the comfort and safety of those inside the buildings they’re servicing by providing preventative equipment care and repair to the systems in place.

A career in the trades, such as an HVAC technician, is an excellent choice for those who want a secure and rewarding career. It is also perfect for people who enjoy working in a hands-on, problem-solving environment. As our HVAC/R Program Manager, Bob Horr, says: with the right training, like the program offered here at �鶹AV, “wherever you land, you’re immediately employable.”

For more information on our HVAC/R program, give us a call today or fill out this form to schedule an appointment with one of our Admissions Advisors!

Keep Your HVAC System Clean and Change Your Filters.

Cleaning your system includes the vents, filters, and registers. Pet hair, leaves, dust, debris – all of these can impact the flow and efficiency of your HVAC/R system.

Consider Investing in a Programmable Thermostat.

With control of your heating and air conditioning at your fingertips, even when you’re away from home, can keep your heating and air conditioning costs in line.

Be Sure to Check for Leaks and Insulate.

When air leaks are present, your HVAC/R system works less efficiently and twice as hard. This can increase your energy cost exponentially.

Check All Pipe Insulation and Condensate Lines.

Always replace damaged insulation or condensate lines as quickly as possible to prevent higher energy bills or damage to your home or workspace.

Last, but not least, Schedule Maintenance for your HVAC/R System.

Having an expert come take a look at your system, and taking preventative action, can catch problems early on and ensure smoother performance.

Considering a career in HVAC/R? �鶹AV offers short-term, hands-on training and certification prep, starting every 10 weeks. For more information on our HVAC/R program, fill out this Form and one of our Admissions Advisors will be in touch.

Introduction

As a country, we’re now a year into the COVID-19 pandemic. The skilled trade sectors have remained strong during the economic fallout. While other sectors have struggled, trade companies have seen steady growth. As the pandemic rages on trade industries like healthcare, HVAC/R, commercial trucking, and more have never been more in-demand.

The Skilled Trade Gap

Before the pandemic, there was a growing skilled trade gap in America’s workforce. A “skilled trade gap” refers to demand outweighing the supply of trade workers.

For decades the number of people entering the skilled trades has been lower than the number of people leaving or retiring. According to recent info from the , on average about 7,000 electricians join the field each year while 10,000 retire from it.

What Caused The Skilled Trade Gap?

There are several factors that contribute to the decline in skilled trade people’s numbers.

The most common include:

• The aging of the Baby-boomer generation.
• Economic recessions.
• The focus society has put on young people getting a 4-year college degree.

There’s also a general lack of information provided to the public about the skilled trades.

Most people don’t know how easy it is to enter a trade school or career college. Or, that most career training programs are eligible for financial aid. Trade school tuition is also cheaper compared to a 4-year college.

The Consequences (And Benefits) Of A Skilled Trade Gap

Industry professionals have been worried for years about the consequences of the shrinking population of skilled trade workers. As fewer people enter the trade sector, the squeeze on consumers will be felt more and more. Increased prices, long delays in service, and slow progress are some of the consequences that are seen.

But, there are some benefits to the skilled trade gap. Demand for skilled trade work remains high. As a result, job security for skilled technicians increases. Wages rise to entice new talent. And, companies have room to grow to meet the demand.

That’s why trade schools like �鶹AV (�鶹AV) have been working diligently to train folks for a life-long career in high-demand skilled trade sectors. �鶹AV provides hands-on training from industry professionals. Students learn the ins and outs of their field and are supported long after graduation.

Demand During A Pandemic

When the pandemic reached the US in 2020, states began to shut down. Hundreds of thousands of people were furloughed or laid-off from their jobs. Businesses closed and markets dipped. But, the trade industries saw a surge in demand.

When grocery store shelves were empty across the country, commercial truckers saved the day. Drivers were needed to transport huge amounts of goods so shelves could be restocked. People were also ordering more products online, increasing shipping demands to levels never before seen.

Since the virus is airborne, indoor heating, cooling, and ventilation technicians become vital. Businesses who wanted to stay open during lockdowns turned to HVAC/R technicians to keep indoor areas ventilated. People were also spending more time indoors which put more stress on heating and cooling systems.

Most notably, however, was the need for skilled healthcare workers. Phlebotomists were needed for taking blood samples. CMA’s were needed to help doctors treat patients. And, medical office professionals were needed to handle the boom in insurance claims and payments.

A found that the trade sectors saw double, even triple-digit growth after the pandemic hit. While many businesses were shuttering their doors and unemployment claims were piling up, skilled trade industries saw growth.

When local governments started to issue lockdown orders non-essential businesses had to close their doors to the public. Many trade services were deemed essential to society and could stay open. Now, skilled trade workers enjoy an added sense of job security knowing that their jobs are essential during a crisis.

The Post-Pandemic Skilled Trade Outlook

With COVID-19 vaccines circulating across the globe, we’re nearing the pandemic finish line. But, the damage has already been done. Unemployment numbers across the country are still high. Businesses are still struggling to stay open.

When disaster strikes, one of the worst things that can happen is a loss of income for one or more members of a household. That’s why it’s important to know you have job security. Trade careers offer security, and more.

Start a career in an in-demand industry within a year. �鶹AV provides career training programs for a fraction of the cost of a typical 4-year university. Learn how to master your trade field with hands-on training. Learn on your schedule with �鶹AV’s flexible scheduling and hybrid classes.

Schedule an appointment to talk with an Admissions Advisor today. Find out how �鶹AV provides career training for a better life. Or, fill out an application on our website.

Scarborough, ME – April 7, 2015 ��– : �� For some among the many graduates of �鶹AV (�鶹AV) over the past year, getting to graduation took a lot of hard work and determination. �� In some cases, conquering the academics was the easy part: �� family responsibilities, health issues and financial pressures are just some of the challenges �鶹AV students have overcome.

From earthquake survivor to Phlebotomist

Kesner ‘Salvi’ Salvent was working in construction in Port-au-Prince, Haiti to help support his 10 younger siblings in 2010 when a 7.0 earthquake struck. �� He was in a crowded store that was collapsing all around him. �� “I tried to get out, but it was too late,” Salvi said. �� “People in front of me had already started dying.” �� He awoke on his stomach much later, pinned beneath the heavy debris and unable to move. He lay there for four days before rescuers heard his cries for help.

Salvi is the best friend of Gabison Boisrond, a current �鶹AV HVAC Technician student who lives in Kennebunkport with his wife, Erin. �� Boisrond kept in cellphone contact with his family and friends in Port-au-Prince as they frantically searched for Salvi, who no one had seen since the earthquake. �� Gabison Boisrond’s in-laws intervened when he was finally located and after several days of paperwork, logistics management and assistance from Congresswoman Chellie Pingree’s office, Salvi was evacuated to a nearby Navy Hospital ship. With the help and support of untold numbers of caring people, Salvi was brought to the United States. �� After a year of medical care and recovery, he made it to Maine in the back of an SUV.

Finally, two years after the earthquake, Salvi enrolled in the Clinical Medical Assistant Program at �鶹AV which includes phlebotomy training. �� He hopes to continue his medical training in the future to help other Haitians, but in the meantime is happy in his new role as a Phlebotomy Technician with NorDx Labs at Maine Medical Center.

From production worker to information technology

When Nam Phan graduated from high school, he secured a production job at Hostess Brands. Nam was confident that a large food manufacturing company that had been successful for many years would provide job security. �� But after 10 years with Hostess and with no warning, the company closed and Nam had no marketable skills, certifications or experience in anything but production. He didn’t know where to turn.

Nam was referred to �鶹AV by a friend and soon after interviewing, enrolled in the computer networking program. In a very short time and with the help of �鶹AV’s unique ‘Flex-Train’ scheduling (students customize their own schedule), combined with hands-on training, Nam has been able to secure a position in the IT department at Maine Medical Center. Nam credits the courseware and lab simulations for rounding out his program and preparing him to pass his industry certifications with CompTIA and Microsoft. The Career Services Team at �鶹AV worked with Nam to find part time work in the IT field while he completed his program and assisted with placement through their connections at Maine Medical Center. Nam says, “Thanks, �鶹AV, for opening the path to a successful future for me and my family.”

From chaos to confidence

Current �鶹AV student Jessica Sullivan is attending the Clinical Medical Assistant (CMA) program at the Scarborough campus. �� She’s the mother of 3 children – Isaac, 9; Noah, 2, and Olivia, 6 months and thought it unlikely she’d have the time or resources to go back to school. �� But with �鶹AV’s unique ‘Flex-Train’ system, Jessica was able to custom design her own training schedule to fit the classes into her busy life.

When Jessica began attending �鶹AV, she was ��working 50-60 hours a week at two different jobs and was pregnant with Olivia. �� Jessica isn’t even due to graduate until July 2015, but she recently accepted a position as a Medical Assistant at Chest Medicine Associates.

�鶹AV’s staff and faculty are proud of Salvi, Nam, Jessica and the thousands of �鶹AV students and alumni who have conquered their personal challenges to achieve a better life through education.

About �鶹AV

�鶹AV is Maine’s only locally owned and operated accredited career training school with campuses in Bangor, Scarborough and an extension campus in Lewiston. �鶹AV is a VA approved school in Bangor and Scarborough and offers Federal Financial Aid for many of its programs and for those who qualify in all campuses. With its short-term, hands-on approach to training, �鶹AV graduates are job-ready, may earn national certification and are prepared to meet the industry’s overwhelming needs and demands for qualified professionals. The school offers in-demand training for a range of medical programs, including Medical Assistant, Medical Lab Assistant, Medical Coding and Billing, Phlebotomy, Information Technology (PC Repair, Network Administration), HVAC/R and CDL Truck Driving. Classes start each week or month for most programs.

I was asked yesterday “What do you like most about your job?” I have to say that the best part of my job is watching students succeed: from the moment they come through the door to the moment they get a job. Each student succeeds in different ways, but they all have something in common. They become a stronger person! I am very proud to be a part of that. This is what some students have to say:

I enjoyed my experience at �鶹AV, the staff and students are always helpful. The flexibility is something that I found best for me with three children and work schedule. I would recommend the school to others and already have.

–Amanda Stanley

�鶹AV gave me the resources I needed to be able to get the job that I have always wanted to do.

–Cindy Bridges

My experience here at �鶹AV has been a life changing one. This program has taught me to push myself more than I thought I could with the much needed and continuous support of the staff here. I was able to graduate and prove to me “this is possible.” I feel very blessed to have such supportive people on my side. Thank you all for being patient with me as I figured out this part of my life. Now for the next chapter. I could not have done it without �鶹AV.

–Meaghan Wooldridge

I just want to say �鶹AV fit my life very well, with the flexibility and understand of my life outside of here. I have two children. I am a single mom and working. �鶹AV worked with me and encouraged me through the program. I’m thankful for all the wonderful staff at �鶹AV and would recommend them to anyone.

–Jennifer Fournier

My time at �鶹AV was truly amazing. All of the faculty and advisors really work so well with you. Everyone is so nice and it’s almost like a little family here at �鶹AV. I would recommend it to anyone! Thank you!

–Shani Morris

I loved this school and appreciated all the teachers and staffs help. Very close knit program makes for easier one-on-one with students.

–Ashley Wallace

�鶹AV is Maine’s only locally owned & operated career school as well as the state’s only Nationally Accredited truck driving school. Most programs at �鶹AV average tens of thousands of dollars less than many other schools in the state while taking literally a 10th of the time on average to complete. And the big difference between �鶹AV and the rest? JOBS.

Recently, Maine Medical Partners hired 4 graduates from the Clinical Medical Assistant and Medical Office programs, while other graduates have acquired positions at NorDx, Healthport, Orthopedic Associates and Maine Centers for Health.

�鶹AV’s Information Technology (IT) students are securing employment in many cases before they graduate, with current students launching IT careers at Time Warner Cable, Bell Techlogix, Metrocast, and contract work for Google through MarketStar.

�鶹AV has experienced tremendous success placing HVAC/R graduates in heating and refrigeration technician positions throughout the state. Hiring companies include: Atlantic Comfort, Pine State Heating, HVAC Services, Comfort Systems, Fontaine HVAC, Northeast Mechanical, Estes Oil, J. Hannah Mechanical, Gelinas HVAC, and reVision Heat.

At �鶹AV’s Bangor campus, more than 20 recent graduates found employment with regional employers. An additional 12 students were accepted into the externship program at various healthcare organizations where �鶹AV graduates continue to hone their career skills while gaining valuable real-world experience in the medical industry.

All of �鶹AV’s programs as short as 5 weeks for CDL trucking, and even our IT, Medical, and HVAC programs can be completed in about 6 months or less. All programs lead to national certification (or Licensure) and the school has partnered with and placed their graduates with many of Maine’s top employers in the Medical, IT, HVAC, and transportation industries.

As a career training school, �鶹AV teaches valuable hands-on skills that are in high demand throughout the medical industry. This has helped �鶹AV establish lasting relationships with clinical externship sites at some of the largest medical facilities in the state and laboratories such as NorDx. This externship program provides students with real-world “on-the-job” training which can often lead to employment. Recently, �鶹AV has partnered to create additional externship site opportunities with Central Maine Medical Center and Women to Women in Yarmouth.
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�鶹AV is a career school with campuses in Bangor and Scarborough. They attract a diverse student base seeking training in highly employable fields like Allied Health, Commercial Drivers’ License, Information Technology and HVAC/R (heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration). The school offers job placement assistance, flexible scheduling, and federal financial aid for most programs and for those who qualify. For more information, go to .
For more information please contact:
Jennifer Thompson, Campus Director
jthompson@ntinow.edu
207-883-5130

�鶹AV completed its annual Completion, Placement and Licensure report this past week. ��The results are as follows:

For the period of July 2012 through June 2013, �鶹AV had an average class retention rate of 81.7%. The overall graduation rate was 78.3%, and a job placement rate of 87.5%. �� The Licensure rate was 85.3%.

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Happy Holidays!

Christmas Vacation starts December 23rd through December 27th (closed for all students) – Weekend CDL Students have the 21st, 22nd, 28th and 29th off as well as the week of Christmas.

New Years Day is Wednesday January 1st, 2014—Campus is ��Closed

• Gordan B. CDL hired at Re-Harvest
• Kim T. CMA ��hired at ��
• Dan S. ��CDL ��hired at ��
• Johnny H. IT hired at ��
• Nathan S. ��Passed ComTIA Network+ Certification
• Bonita B. Passed ��NHA—CPT
• Adrianna D. ��Passed �� NHA—CPT
• Richard L. Passed Medca—MLA