How to Change Your HVAC Air Filter
Homeowners must do a few chores regularly to keep a home in top shape. One of those is changing the HVAC air filter in your home. The EPA recommends changing the air filter every one to three months depending on the amount of pet hair, smoke or other dust in the air of your home. A clean air filter improves energy efficiency and air quality.
Changing your HVAC air filter is important to maintain your unit. Plus, it’s an easy DIY task! Here are some simple steps to follow.
Buy the right filter
Before you change your HVAC air filter, check your HVAC owner’s manual to find out what kind of filter you need to buy. You can also look at the current filter in the unit to determine the right size and type for the replacement filter. The right filter for your unit is very important to ensure an accurate fit and proper function of the unit.
2. Shut off the HVAC unit
First, turn off the HVAC unit. Never do any maintenance on your HVAC until you shut down the unit. This protects both you and your HVAC from potential harm.
3. Remove access panels
To locate the air filter simply look at the ductwork. The filter sits between the ductwork, bringing air in from the outside, and the furnace body, that blows air into your home. Some HVAC systems have small panels with handles while others have access panels that easily remove by sliding it out.
4. Remove the old filter
Removing the air filter is as easy as pulling it out of the HVAC unit. It doesn’t require any special tools although you may want to wear gloves to avoid dust and dirt from the filter getting on your hands.
5. Insert the new air filter
When placing the new filter into the HVAC unit pay attention to the arrow on the side of the filter. This indicates the direction of the airflow. The filter should point in the same direction as the airflow.
6. Close access panels
Simply close the access panel by sliding it back into place or closing the panel with the handle.
7. Turn HVAC unit back on
Finally, make sure to turn the HVAC unit back on after you replace the air filter and close the access panel.
Benefits of Changing the HVAC Air Filter Regularly
Changing your HVAC air filter regularly helps maintain your system to ensure it runs well, which also extends the life of the unit.
Additionally, your home will have better air quality. The air filter traps things like pollen, dirt, mold spores, dust, animal fur, bacteria and other unwanted debris. The improved air quality can help with health issues like asthma, allergies and headaches.
Changing the air filter improves energy efficiency as well. Clogged and dirty air filters mean that your HVAC unit has to work harder to push air through the system, which uses more energy, which in turn increases your energy bill.
Maintaining your HVAC system and the rest of your home is important. When you do so, your home will always be home inspection ready. Call us today to schedule a home inspection with Kenco!