The Effect of Candles on Furnace Air Filters

HomeSense Team

February 18, 2018

Candles and furnace filters are connected in a way you might not expect. Here’s how I discovered this firsthand.

We talk a lot about changing your HVAC filters regularly:

How to Select a Furnace Filter for Your Indianapolis Area Home
What’s the Best Air Filter for Indoor Air Quality?
Air Conditioner Not Working? Check Your Filter

Even knowing this, I learned something new about filter changes.

A Personal Story

A few weeks ago, during a cold snap, I called HomeSense out to my house. The first thing I always tell people to do is check their filter. But I didn’t check mine.

I had just changed my filter less than a month before, so I didn’t think it could be the problem. When my technician Kary came out, he found the filter was completely black.

Here’s what I learned: My wife likes to burn candles around Christmas. After just a month of candle burning, my brand new filter — which should last 6-9 months — was completely black. The soot from the candles had been pulled into the system and clogged the filter.

The Takeaway

If you burn candles regularly in your home, especially during the holidays, check your furnace filter more frequently than usual. The soot and particles from candles can clog filters much faster than normal use, even high-quality filters that are designed to last months.Make it a habit to check your filter monthly when burning candles, and change your air filter regularly to keep your system running efficiently.

Posted in: Heating, Indoor Air Quality

Why Is My AC Blowing Warm Air?

When your AC starts pushing out warm air on a hot day, it is hard to tell whether it is a quick fix or a sign of something serious. This guide explains the most common reasons your AC is blowing warm air and what you can do to get cool, comfortable air flowing again.

Is It Cheaper to Repair or Replace Air Conditioning in Indiana?

When your AC starts struggling, the cost question comes up fast. Here’s how Indiana homeowners can weigh repair costs against replacement to make the smarter financial call.

Are HVAC Technicians Licensed and Insured in Indiana?

Hiring an HVAC technician in Indiana means more than finding someone available, and knowing the licensing and insurance requirements can protect you as a homeowner.

Do AC Repairs Come With A Warranty?

Not every AC repair comes with the same warranty coverage, and knowing what to ask before the work begins can save you from unexpected costs down the road.

How Long Does AC Repair Usually Take?

AC repair timelines vary more than most homeowners expect, and the type of issue involved makes all the difference in how quickly you’ll have cool air again.

Why Does My AC Keep Turning On And Off?

Most AC breakdowns in Indiana’s brutal summers are completely preventable, and this guide walks you through exactly what to watch for and what to do before the hottest night of the year catches you off guard.

Why Is My AC Leaking Water?

A leaking AC is never something to ignore. Whether it’s a clogged drain line, a dirty air filter, or something more serious like a refrigerant leak, the cause matters. Here’s what to look for and how to decide if it’s a DIY fix or time to call a pro.

Why Is My Air Conditioner Making Loud Noises?

That bang, squeal, or hiss coming from your AC is not something to brush off. Strange noises are your system’s way of flagging a problem before it gets worse. Here’s what each sound means and when it’s time to call a pro.

Why Does My AC Smell Musty or Like Burning?

Something smells off and your AC might be the culprit. A musty odor could mean mold is growing somewhere in your system, while a burning smell might signal an electrical issue that needs quick attention. Here is what different AC odors are trying to tell you.

How Often Do You Really Need to Service Your AC Unit?

How often should you service your AC, and what happens if you skip it? Indiana’s brutal summers demand more from your cooling system than most, and the cost of skipping maintenance adds up fast.

Year-round comfort. One simple plan.

Stay comfortable in every season with regular maintenance, repair savings, and fast service when you need it most.

Learn about Membership