How Much Does It Cost to Change a Furnace Filter?

Changing a furnace filter is a relatively simple task, but the cost can vary widely depending on whether you decide to do it yourself or hire a professional. This guide will help you understand the factors that influence the cost and provide you with some estimates.

DIY vs Professional Service

If you prefer to change the furnace filter yourself, the cost is minimal. Most importantly, the MERV rating of the filter does not significantly affect the overall cost. A high MERV-rated filter (13 or above) might be slightly more expensive, but the price difference is minor if you're purchasing a new one. You can find a good filter for as little as $5 or less at a store like Walmart, without the labor cost.

However, if you are more comfortable having a professional perform the task, the cost can escalate. A typical charge for a technician to change a filter is around $40, and the filter itself might cost an additional $12 for a 1-inch filter. For larger filters of 2, 3, 4, or 5 inches, the cost of the filter can range from $50 to $80. Some specialized filters from brands like Honeywell or Aprilair can be even more expensive, up to $80 for the filter alone.

Factors Influencing the Cost

The cost of changing a furnace filter can vary based on several factors:

Filter Size and Type: Larger filters or those with specific features can be more expensive. Location: If the filter is located in a hard-to-reach place, it may require a more skilled technician, increasing the cost. Filtration Capacity: Filters with higher MERV ratings might be more expensive, but they are not necessarily better for your system, especially if they affect the performance of your blower.

Estimated Cost Ranges

The cost of changing a furnace filter can vary between $3 and $60, depending on the filter's size and filtration capacity. If you choose to do it yourself, the cost can be very low, somewhere between $3 and $30. If you need a handyman to do the job, you might expect to pay around $100, as they will also include their time and other overhead costs.

Step-by-Step Guide for DIY Replacement

Changing a furnace filter is not rocket science. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

Locate the Filter: Identify the location of the filter, usually found near the furnace. Remove the Old Filter: Carefully remove the old filter from its slot or storage box. Note the Measurements: Take note of the dimensions of the old filter. Replace the Filter: Purchase a replacement filter at a local hardware store and install it in the same slot. Reaffirm the Changes: Double-check that the filter is securely in place. Reverse the removal process if needed.

Most furnace filters last about 6 months, so you should perform this task regularly. Our sales typically range from $3 to $30, with most sales being in the MERV rating range of 8 to 13, priced between $18 to $30.

Remember, higher MERV ratings aren't always better. If a higher filter rating causes issues with your blower, it's not worth the expense. Most of our sales indicate that a balance between cost and performance is optimal.

Note: Some filters might be in a box with a magnetic catch. You can easily figure out the right replacement, just by looking for the correct size and MERV rating.