Regularly changing the air filters in your home is a simple and fast way to ensure better air quality, improve airflow, help lower energy usage, and extend the lifespan of your heating and cooling equipment. Unfortunately, many homeowners neglect regular air filter maintenance. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) advises that indoor air can be twice as polluted as outdoor air. Therefore, regular maintenance and installation of new air filters are crucial components of your home HVAC system.
Neglecting to change your home’s air filters can lead to system malfunctions, increased allergens, and compromise indoor air quality. In this blog, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to change and install a home air filter, offering step-by-step instructions, highlighting the importance of replacement, and advising on the frequency of replacements to maintain clean and fresh air in your home.
How to Change the Air Filter: A Step-by-Step Guide
Before you start replacing your home air filter, ensure you have the following:
- Properly sized air filter with the correct MERV rating
- A damp cloth or vacuum cleaner
Step 1: Use your thermostat to turn off the system
Before beginning the process of an air filter change, ensure your HVAC system is turned off. Use the thermostat to turn off the system to prevent dust from circulating while you work.
Step 2: Locate the air filter compartment
This is typically located near the HVAC air handler, found in an AC closet, attic, or garage. Look for a labeled panel indicating the filter location.
Step 3: Unhook the grille to open the compartment
Unhook the cover by unscrewing the panel or by unclipping the latches. Handle with care and note the assembly for reassembly later. Set the panel aside.
Step 4: Remove the old air filter
Slide out the old filter, noting the direction of the airflow arrows. Ensure the new filter is installed in the same direction.
Step 5: Clean the compartment
Over time, the compartment can accumulate dust and debris, which should be removed while replacing the old air filter. Use a vacuum cleaner or a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris that may have gathered inside the filter compartment.
Step 6: Install the new air filter
Gently slide the new air filter into the bracket, assuring the airflow arrows on the filter are pointing in the same direction as the prior filter it is replacing. While choosing a new replacement air filter, be sure to consider the right quality air filters for perfect fit and functioning. If you are uncertain, call our team at Caloosa Cooling to help determine if you are choosing the correct filter for your system.
Step 7: Close the compartment and turn on your HVAC system
Next, take the unhooked grille or a replaced grille and screw it back in place. You can even clean the grille when it’s unhooked for better results. Turn your HVAC system back on and enjoy fresh, clean air!
Why Is Replacing The Air Filter Important?
Regularly changing your home air filter is essential for several reasons:
- Dirty Filters Impact HVAC Efficiency
The condition of the air filter significantly affects your HVAC system’s efficiency. A clogged filter forces the furnace and AC to work harder, leading to increased energy consumption and higher bills. Moreover, the increased workload can cause overheating and damage, ultimately reducing the system’s lifespan. Timely replacement of AC filters can optimize your system’s performance and cut costs.
- Degraded air quality
Dirty air filters circulate dust, dander, and other allergens throughout your home, posing health risks for your family. Inhaling these contaminants can affect conditions such as asthma, allergies, and other respiratory issues. Conversely, a clean air filter acts as a barrier, effectively trapping pollutants to improve air quality..
- Increased maintenance cost
Neglecting air filter maintenance can result in more costly HVAC service expenses. A clogged filter can impact the blower motor and condensing coil, incurring expensive repair costs. Regularly changing the air filters can help avoid these expenses.
- Impact on Indoor Cleanliness
Unclean air filters recirculate dust through the HVAC system, leading to additional dust accumulation on floors and furniture. Regularly replacing home air filters helps contribute to a cleaner living environment and may reduce the burden on frequency of dustings.
How Often Should You Change Your Filters?
While most air filter manufacturers and HVAC companies recommend changing home air filters every 90 days (or 3 months), the frequency may vary based on several factors:
- Allergies or Breathing Problems:
Change your air filter every 20 to 45 days if you have allergies, asthma, or COPD to maintain healthy indoor air quality.
- Pet Ownership:
A simple rule is to change your filter every 60 days to prevent pet hair and dander buildup and improve air quality.
- Number of occupants
Larger households may require filter changes every 1-2 months due to increased dust and allergens. If you have a large family, it means your air filters are working harder.
- Lifestyle and Candles
Lifestyle Factors: Air filters should be changed more frequently if homeowners regularly burn candles, cook and grill often, and reside in dusty areas or where they are exposed to smoke or smoking. These homeowners would benefit from changing their HVAC filters every 4-6 weeks.
When to Seek HVAC Professionals
While changing air filters is usually straightforward, certain situations call for professional assistance:
- Complex HVAC Systems:
Complex HVAC Systems with multiple filters or specialized units may require professional installation to avoid issues.
- Stubborn Clogged Filters:
Professionals can perform a thorough cleaning when heavily clogged filters have impacted the blower wheel or condenser coil.
- Hidden Issues Beyond the Filter:
A dirty filter may be contributing to equipment malfunction, improper ventilation, and poor indoor air quality. HVAC professionals can assist with installing IAQ (Indoor Air Quality) devices, inspection and diagnostic services, and service or maintenance.
Don’t compromise on air quality or risk DIY mishaps. Contact Caloosa Cooling for expert air filter services and HVAC maintenance to improve air quality in your home. Call us at 239-226-0202 or visit our website to schedule an appointment!
