Need to Change Your AC Filter? Here’s How to Do It
HVAC systems, including furnaces, air conditioners, and heat pumps, are an essential part of your home. These systems require regular maintenance to keep them running smoothly and efficiently. It’s also important to note that HVAC maintenance is necessary to prevent breakdowns and expensive repairs.
Changing your air filter is one of the basic things you can do to keep your ac unit running flawlessly. If you notoriously forget to change your AC air filter, you’re not alone. In fact, most people only remember to do so when the seasons change, and their air conditioning doesn’t cool quite like it used to.
Air filters get clogged with dust and dirt, which can wear and tear the ac components. A dirty filter also impacts airflow through the system, which keeps your HVAC system from working properly.
How often your need to change your ac air filter depends on several factors. Ideally, you should change the air conditioner filter every three months as part of your HVAC maintenance routine. If you have pets or have issues like dust allergies, it’s recommended to change the filters more often to improve indoor air quality.
Of course, you can always call up an ac company near you for air conditioning maintenance, but it’s helpful to know how to change an air conditioner filter in your house.
How to Change an Air Conditioning Filter in House
Furnace or air conditioner filter replacement is a quick and easy task. Before replacing the filter, ensure the HVAC unit is turned off to prevent any health and safety incidents. You should also wait for the system to cool if the central air system has been running.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you replace your home air conditioner filters.
1. Locate and remove the old filter
First, it’s important to know what you’re looking for. An ac filter looks like a large windowpane with fine pleated paper or cloth wrapped on a cardboard frame.
Air conditioner designs vary from one manufacturer to another. In some systems, the filter is located in the return air duct. Finding the filters can be tricky if you have an extensive, heavy-duty system with multiple return vents and air handlers.
If your heating and cooling systems share the same ducts, the air filter could be located in the blower system. Look for a filter cabinet along the sides of the blower cabinet. Once you’ve found the filter, simply slide it out of the slot that holds it in place.
2. Check the filter size
Here’s another tricky part: always use the right replacement filter. For quick reference, the filter size is usually printed on the side of the filter. There should also be some indication of the brand and the filtration grade. When in doubt, the best thing to do is consult an air conditioning service technician.
If you’re thinking of replacing your old filter with a higher efficiency grade, it’s imperative to consult with an HVAC expert. High-efficiency filters aren’t practical for every home and could increase your energy bills.
After removing the filter, check whether it’s disposable or whether it can be cleaned and reused. Such information is typically marked on the edge of the filter, along with cleaning directions.
3. Replace the air filter
Again, make sure that the ac mains are switched off. You don’t want to run the risk of touching live voltage. Now you just need to insert the new or cleaned filter back in the right way.
Look for an arrow pointing in the direction that air should flow through the filter. Carefully slide the air filter back into its housing, making sure the airflow arrows are pointing in the right direction. Once this is done, properly secure the filter cabinet or panel cover and restore power to your ac system and enjoy the fresh, cool air.
Expert AC Repair Services
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ACHV technicians have the right equipment, expertise, and experience to get your system back up and running. ACs are sophisticated machines, so you need a company that will get repair and maintenance right the first time. Contact us for fast, reliable local service and to get more details about our special offer.
