Article: Special furnace filters can clear the air

If you have forced-air heat, it's almost certainly time to change your furnace filter.

Standard paper-rimmed fiberglass filters (about $2) need replacing once a month during heating season. But before you wedge yourself beside the heater and make the replacement, there's something you should know: These filters are designed to keep your furnace's heat exchanger clean and efficient, not to clean the air so you breathe easier.

They aren't effective at trapping the small particles that harbor bacteria, pollen, mold, dust mites and other irritants.

If someone in your family is prone to respiratory ailments or allergies, you might want to consider a higher-performance filter. These products, ...

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