How to Change your Air Filter (2020 Tutorial)

HOW TO CHANGE AIR FILTERS PROPERLY

1. TURN OFF THE POWER.

Turning off the power is essential for two reasons. For one, you have to think of your safety. Don’t take the risk of touching a live voltage! What you should also consider is the safety of your equipment. Debris and dust can get sucked into the unit if you are removing the clogged filter while the unit is still running. Always remember to switch off the power of the unit itself as well as the power to the circuit breaker.

2. REMOVE THE OLD FILTER.

All you need to do is slide the old filter out of the slot that holds it in place.

3. CHECK THE CONDITION.

Check the AC filter’s condition once you have removed it. You won’t be able to see much light coming through your clogged filter if you hold it up to alight. If this is the case, then you will need to replace or clean the screen, depending on what kind of filter you are using. You might want to replace the filter being used, even if it isn’t older than the manufacturer’s recommended replacement date. Many factors can impact how fast your screen can become clogged. If you live in a large city, smog can shorten your air filter’s life.

4. CLEAN THE FILTER OR REPLACE IT WITH A NEW ONE

Are your filters disposable or reusable? Disposable filters usually have a cardboard frame and a fiber mesh or paper surface. But a reusable filter is made of more durable and sturdier material and has a metal frame with a special coating that makes it washable. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for washing and cleaning a reusable framework. Most of the time, you’ll need to rinse the frame with water and let it dry. Or vacuum away the dust, in some cases.

5. INSERT THE NEW OR CLEANED FILTER.

All you have to do now is put in back in the right way… A depiction of an arrow on the filter’s frame will show you which direction the air should flow through the screen, which should always be opposite from the return air duct and towards the air handler mechanism. Make sure that the arrow is pointing towards the air handler when you insert the filter back into the housing.

Now that you are informed on how to change the AC filter make a reminder for yourself, so you don’t forget to do it from month to month. And also, remember about your furnace if it is separated from your air conditioner.

6. STEP UP YOUR HVAC MAINTENANCE

On the chance that you do not have a regular HVAC service technician to ask how to change an AC filter, then there is a chance that you have been neglecting other essential maintenance tasks other than changing AC filters. Regular maintenance will help your equipment remain in top working condition, the parts lasting longer, and working more efficiently. This means the system will use less electricity, require fewer repairs, and have an extended life span.

A preventive maintenance agreement will help you get the best out of your HVAC equipment. The relatively small investment will pay off in lower operating costs. You can also get an agreement that can be changed to your specific needs, what equipment you are using, and what kind of budget you are on.