Here's How to Replace Your Home Air Filter

Replacing an Air Filter

It’s that time of year again when homeowners have to start thinking about completing fall maintenance around the house. It may be time to turn your air conditioner off, but you still need to prep your furnace unit for the season ahead.

Air filter replacement is an important step toward maintaining your central air system HVAC unit. Depending on the type of air filter you have, you might need to change it as often as every month or as little as every six to twelve months. How do you actually change your air filter? It’s not as difficult as you might think!

Buckeye Heating & Cooling walks you through the steps of how to change your air filter. Find out how to determine the right home air filters and filter size for your heating and cooling system, as well as how to swap out your old filter for a new AC filter or wash your reusable filter.

Sizing New Air Filters

As any homeowner knows, keeping your furnace in good working order is essential for staying warm during the winter months. One important part of furnace maintenance is regularly changing the filter. However, with so many different sizes and types of filters available, it can be difficult to know which one is right for your furnace. Here are a few tips to help you find the right size filter for your furnace.

First, check your furnace manual or the manufacturer’s website to find out what size filter your furnace requires. Or, you can measure the cardboard frame of the existing air filter. Measuring the dimensions of the old air filter using a measuring tape will allow you to accurately determine the appropriate size for a replacement filter.

Consider Types of Filters

Next, take into account the type of filter you need based on the environment inside your home. Also, consider the cost of replacement filters when making your decision. Some filters need to be replaced more frequently than others, so it is important to factor that into the overall cost of ownership. Once you have considered all of these factors, you should be able to find the perfect size filter for your furnace.

MERV Ratings

If you have pets or live in an area with a lot of dust, you may want to choose a filter with a higher MERV rating. MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, and it is a measure of how effectively a filter can trap particles in the air. The higher the MERV rating, the more effective the filter will be. However, keep in mind that filters with high MERV ratings can also restrict airflow and put strain on your furnace, so it is important to strike a balance between effectiveness and efficiency.

Most people know that air filters are important for keeping their HVAC systems running efficiently and preventing airborne particles from circulating through their homes. However, many people don’t know that there is such a thing as too much filtration. High-efficiency air filters, like HEPA filters, can actually restrict air movement through the furnace or air handler, leading to energy efficiency issues and damaging the unit. For most residential HVAC systems, the highest MERV rating you want to choose for a new air filter is 13. This will provide adequate filtration without sacrificing performance. Only use filters with a higher MERV rating if your HVAC equipment is specifically designed to do so. By following this advice, you can keep your HVAC system running smoothly and avoid costly repairs down the road.

Fiberglass Air Filters

Air filters are an important part of any HVAC system, and there are a variety of different types to choose from. Fiberglass air filters are a popular option due to their low cost and easy maintenance. However, fiberglass filters can also be less effective at trapping particles than other types of filters. As a result, they may need to be replaced more frequently. If you decide to use a fiberglass air filter, be sure to change it regularly and vacuum the area around the filter to reduce the risk of static buildup.

Pleated Air Filters

Pleated air filters are a type of air filter that is made up of pleated material. The pleats help to increase the surface area of the filter, which allows for better capture of airborne particles. These filters are often used in HVAC systems and can be effective at reducing the amount of dust mites, mold spores, pollen, and other airborne particles. When shopping for a pleated air filter, it is important to consider the size and efficiency rating of the filter. Pleated air filters are typically more expensive than fiberglass air filters, but they can last longer and offer better performance and allergen removal.

Washable Air Filters

Washable air filters are a great way to keep your home’s air quality clean and fresh. They are designed to capture airborne particles like dust, pollen, and pet dander and can be reused after being washed in soap and water. Unlike disposable filters, washable filters do not need to be replaced as often, which can save you money in the long run. In addition, washable filters are better for the environment because they can be used over and over again. If you are looking for a way to improve your home’s air quality and reduce household waste, washable air filters are a great option.

How to Replace Home Air Filter Units

Replacement furnace filters are typically located in the return air duct or blower compartment of the furnace. To replace your furnace filter, follow these easy steps:

  1. Turn off the HVAC system while you change the air filter.
  2. Locate the old filter and remove it from the furnace. You may need to use a screwdriver or other tool to loosen it or open the door to the filter slot if your unit has a cover over the air filter.
  3. To install the new filter, simply insert it into the slot where the old filter was located. Make sure the new filter is inserted in the proper direction – follow the arrows that are on the cardboard frame.
  4. If your furnace or air handler cabinet has an accordion-style air filter, take the old filter out of the removable frame and attach the new filter into the frame before sliding the frame and filter back into the filter slot.
  5. Once the new filter is in place, turn on your furnace and check that it is working properly.

Replacing your furnace filter regularly is an important part of maintaining your furnace and ensuring that it runs properly. By following these simple steps, you can easily do it yourself!

Cleaning a reusable air filter is important to keep your HVAC system running efficiently. But how do you clean it without damaging the filter? Follow these steps, and you’ll have a clean air filter in no time.

  1. First, remove the air filter from your HVAC unit. Most air filters can be removed by simply pushing up on the bottom of the frame and pulling the filter out. If your air filter is particularly dirty, you may want to wear gloves to avoid getting debris on your hands.
  2. Next, rinse the filter with warm water. Be sure to use gentle pressure so as not to damage the fibers. If there is a lot of buildup on the filter, you may need to soak it in warm water for a few minutes before rinsing, and you can gently wash it with a mild soap.
  3. Once the filter is rinsed, let it air dry completely before putting it back in your HVAC unit. This step is important! If you put a wet or damp filter back in your unit, it could cause mold or mildew to grow inside the unit.

And that’s it! Now you know how to clean a reusable air filter properly. Just be sure to repeat this process every few months to keep your HVAC system running smoothly.

Change Your Air Filter Correctly

Replacing your home’s air filter is an important part of regular HVAC system maintenance. Not only does it keep your family healthy and breathing easy, but a clean air filter can also help your HVAC system run more efficiently, saving you money on your energy bills. If you’re not sure how to find the right air filter replacement for your specific system or need help installing it, Buckeye Heating & Cooling is here to help. Contact us today to find the right filter!

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