Clogged HVAC air filters reduce the efficiency of HVAC systems. It’s because dirt and debris accumulate and cause your HVAC to work harder. This results in increased utility bills. So, you need to inspect and replace filters every three months or so.
Changing HVAC filters saves HVAC from wear and tear. It cuts down on maintenance costs and mitigates the risk of expensive breakdowns. Also, it improves indoor air quality and protects your family from allergies.
Locate HVAC Air Filters
First of all, locate the HVAC filter. You can find it in one of the two locations. The first one is the blower compartment of your furnace or air conditioner.
But if that’s not the case, then it’d be present behind a ceiling or wall-mounted return air grille.
Determine the Filter Size
The next step is to determine the size of HVAC air filters. For this purpose, you may have to remove the current filter to check its dimensions.
Don’t forget to take note of the direction of the arrows on the filter’s edge. This will be helpful when you install the new filter.
Replace the Filter
Next, use the thermostat to turn off your HVAC system. Then carefully remove the old air filter.
Now insert the new filter with arrows facing in the same direction as the old one. The arrows should point in the direction the air is flowing. As for a ceiling-mounted filter, the arrows should face up. But for a blower mount, the arrows should point towards the blower.
Materials You Should Arrange
- Flashlight
- Screwdriver
- Ladder
- High-quality air filter
How Often to Change Your HVAC Air Filters?
Most air filters have a 3-month lifespan. But you may need to consider other factors too. For instance, you may have pets, or you suffer from allergies, or someone smokes indoors. Then you may need to replace air filters more often to improve air quality.