One of the responsibilities of owning a home is taking good care of your HVAC system. While you may call in the professionals every so often, changing your filter is one of the simplest and most important tasks. By learning how to replace a HVAC air filter, you’ll be able to improve the quality of the air you breathe. Likewise, you’ll keep your system running at peak efficiency, which means lower energy bills.
Why Replace HVAC Filters?
Once the filter is full, it can no longer clean air as it circulates. Excess pollutants will blow through your home, and your HVAC system will struggle to push air through the clogged filter. Not only do you risk your health, but also your heating and cooling unit can break down under damage. That’s why you should change your air filter regularly.
How Often to Change Filters
The regularity with which you change filters depends on two factors. First, you need to take into account the sensitivity of people in the house to airborne irritants. Second, it depends on what kind of particulates float through your home. The average single-family home is recommended to change filters every three months. For a single person living without pets or allergies, they could get by changing the filter every six months. However, large families with pets or allergies would be better to change filters every one or two months.
How to Buy the Correct Filter
Filters come in different sizes, and it’s important to get one that fits your HVAC unit. The easiest way to find out is to first remove your old filter and take it with you to the hardware store. The attendant should be able to help you match the old one to their stock. If they don’t have it in stock, which is typically rare, then ask them where you can get one. Likewise, a quick call to your trusted HVAC company should do the trick.
Procedure for Removing
Before removing the filter, be sure to turn your system off. You may be able to do it at the thermostat. However, some models allow you to switch it off with controls on the body or casing. Once the unit is off, then locate the filter. It’s usually where the main duct connects to the unit. Many filters simply slide out. However, some models require you to first remove a panel. You can easily do this with a common household screwdriver.
Installing the New Filter
Once you’ve obtained the correct filter, then installing it is a cinch. Simply slide it back into place where the old filter came from. However, take note! The filter needs to face a certain direction for proper airflow. Look on the side of the filter. It should have arrows pointing in the correct direction. It may even have instructions too. If the filter won’t fit in any position, then you’ve purchased the wrong model. That’s why it’s important to note the correct size before going to the store. If the filter fit fine, then reattach any remaining panels or screws and turn the unit on. Congratulations! You’ve successfully changed you air filter.
McWilliams Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing in Nacogdoches, TX
Regular HVAC service can keep your system running at peak performance. McWilliams Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing serves Lufkin and Nacogdoches, TX. Our annual maintenance agreements cut the cost of HVAC repair, lower your electric bill and include filter replacement. Call us today to learn more.
