Changing the air filter in your AC or furnace system is one of the most important (and easiest!) things you can do to keep your HVAC system running efficiently. Regularly changing your filter will also improve your indoor air quality and prolong the life of your equipment. This DIY maintenance task does not necessarily require the help of a professional.
Ensure You Know Your Filter Size
Air filters come in an assortment of sizes. So you will want to make sure you know exactly what size you need to ensure your HVAC system continues to work properly. The dimensions should be listed on the edge or frame of the filter, but if not, you can use your tape measure.
You may need to round up to the nearest inch. For example, if your air conditioner or furnace filter measures 18.5 in x 12.5 in x .75 in., then you will need to purchase a filter that measures 19 in x 13 in x 1 in. If you still have your HVAC manual, the dimensions will be listed there.
Locate Your Filter
Your air filter is typically located in one of two locations: Behind a ceiling or wall-mounted return air grille or in an attached filter case on the blower compartment of your furnace or air conditioner.
Change Your Filter
First, use your thermostat to turn off your AC or heater. Remove the old filter, but make sure to remember the direction of the arrows on the edge of the filter as you take it out. Insert the fresh filter with the arrows facing in the same direction as the old filter.
In ceiling-mounted filters, the arrows should face up. If the filter is next to your blower, the arrows should point towards the blower. Close and latch the vent, holding your filter and filter frame in place. Once that’s complete, your new filter will be ready to keep dust and debris out of your system.
Tips For Changing Your HVAC Air Filter
Change your filter the day you get your energy bill
This will ensure your filter is fresh, clean, and prepared to keep dust and other particles out of the air in your home for another month. Replacing your filter every billing cycle is also a valuable step towards minimizing your energy bills.
Write the date on the edge of a new filter right before inserting it
Doing this will help you remember how long you have gone between replacements. Keeping up with routine HVAC filter changes helps your system run more efficiently.
Autoship new filters
Prevent running out of filters by signing up with a service that ships them to you at regular intervals.
Ensure Your HVAC System Runs Well This Winter
Deljo has been providing dependable heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system maintenance for the homeowners of Chicago since 1922. Our HVAC unit experts are happy to replace the filter for you after we inspect, clean, and ensure your unit will continue to run safely and efficiently all year long.
If you are due for your annual maintenance, give our expert technicians a call to schedule an HVAC tune-up today.
