How to Replace Your HVAC Air Filter: The Clean Air Guide
Did you know that 135 million people in the U.S. breathe air with unhealthy pollutant levels? Or that many of those individuals are in none other than Texas? Moreover, some of the state's cities, such as Austin, had more high ozone days in 2021 than in 2020.
That's all the more reason never to forget about replacing your HVAC air filter. Otherwise, it won't take long for the filter to get all clogged up.
A filthy filter, in turn, can lower the efficiency of your heating and air conditioning system.
If you're not sure how to change the HVAC filter, don't worry. We're here to give you a step-by-step guide, so keep reading.
Cut the Power to the System
Thousands of electrical injuries occur in the U.S. each year. Some are severe enough to land people in emergency departments and even burn units.
So for your safety, please cut off the power to your HVAC system before replacing its filter. Switch it off via your thermostat, and to be on the safe side, turn off its circuit breaker, too.
Another crucial reason to power off the HVAC system is to keep air from getting drawn in without the filter. If that does happen, pollutants can enter the ducts or settle on the unit's sensitive parts.
Wear Personal Protective Gear
Remember: the air filter for HVAC systems trap air pollutants, some of which can be pathogens. That may include disease-causing fungi, bacteria, viruses, parasites, and other harmful microorganisms.
For that reason, please wear a face mask, goggles, and gloves. It's also best to wear a cap or hat to keep dust and debris away from your hair.
Locate the HVAC Air Filter
Of all U.S. homes with air conditioning, 75% have a central unit. If you live in one of these households, your HVAC system circulates air through ducts.
In that case, your air filter is likely inside or near the furnace's blower system. So, check the front or the bottom side of the unit; you may be able to retrieve the filter without opening anything. If not, look for a metal panel labeled "FILTER" either on the front area or above the blower.
If the filter is inside a metal panel, you may have to unfasten its screws or hooks. A screwdriver with the proper head type can do the trick. Make sure you place all screws, nuts, or bolts you remove in a container for safekeeping.
Another place to check is the return air duct. It's the one that pulls air from within your home and pushes it through the system's air handler. If every room in your house has a return-air register, there's likely a filter behind each one.
If you're struggling to find the air filter, it might be best to call a local HVAC maintenance specialist. A professional technician can show you the location and teach you how to replace old filters. You can also expect a reliable tech to inform you of the right filter type compatible with your system.
Confirm the Replacement Filter's Compatibility
If you've already purchased a replacement filter, confirm it has the correct dimensions. You can do that by removing the old filter and comparing its size with the brand-new one. This information should be on the side of the old and new filters.
If you haven't bought a replacement filter yet, ensure the one you get is the same size as the old one.
What if you want to use a replacement with a higher MERV rating, like a HEPA filter? After all, in theory, a HEPA filter can remove no less than 99.97% of airborne particles.
If that's the case, it's best to consult with an HVAC tech before buying a higher-efficiency filter. One reason is that your comfort system may not be able to accommodate such a filter. If you make the mistake of installing one, your unit may experience a decline in performance.
Mind the Arrows
As you take out the old filter, please pay attention to the direction of the arrows on its side. You can also take a photo for reference in case you forget.
It's vital to mind the old filter's orientation as you need to insert the new one in the same manner.
Bag the Old Filter Up
As soon as you remove the filthy filter, place it with care inside a trash bag and seal it right away. Avoid moving it too much, as it can displace the dust, dirt, and debris. If that happens, they can go airborne again, or worse; you might inhale the air pollutants.
Insert the Replacement Filter
Grab the replacement filter and check the arrows on its sides. Position it so that they point in the same direction as the ones in the old filter you just took out.
In general, the arrows usually indicate the airflow's direction.
So, for instance, if your filter sits next to the blower, the arrows should point toward the blower.
Replace the Panel Cover
If you had to unscrew a panel cover to change an HVAC filter, don't forget to put it back! You risk exposing your brand-new filter to even more air contaminants if you do. That can then cause it to degrade faster, forcing you to replace it sooner than necessary.
Set up Reminders
Changing an air filter is a preventive HVAC maintenance task that can make your unit last longer. Moreover, it helps keep your system efficient, decreasing its energy consumption by 15%! As a result, it can help you save money and let you do your part in preserving the planet.
So, after replacing the filter, create a note on your phone to remind you about the next change date. In most cases, you'd want a fresh filter every three months. However, if you have pets or use the HVAC a lot, you might want to bump that up to once every month or two.
Change Your HVAC Air Filter Today
And there you have it; the ultimate guide on changing your HVAC air filter. Now that you know how to, it's best to get your old, filthy filter replaced ASAP. The sooner you do, the sooner you can boost your system's efficiency and your home's indoor air quality.
Are you having problems replacing the filter or don't have the time to do it? Then please know our team here at G & S Mechanical can help. Call us now, and we'll be happy to change it and service your entire system!
