How to Change an HVAC System Filter

It's that time of year again! The leaves are changing color, the temperature is dropping and it's time to change your HVAC filter! Your HVAC system is something you probably don’t think about much, yet it is very important. A good air filter keeps your central air conditioner (and furnace) humming along by protecting the mechanicals from dust and debris, and the best filters trap indoor pollutants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen, helping to clean the air in your home.

That is especially important because the concentration of air pollutants inside your home can be two to five times higher than concentrations typically found outdoors, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.

If you're not sure how to do it, don't worry - we've got you covered. In this blog post, we will walk you through the process of changing an HVAC filter, step-by-step. We'll also provide tips on making the process easier and more efficient. So read on, and learn how to change your HVAC filter like a pro!

Why do you need to replace your filter:

Your HVAC system works hard to keep your home comfortable all year long. To do this, it relies on a filter to trap dirt, dust, and other airborne particles. Over time, these particles can build up on the filter and cause it to become clogged. When this happens, your HVAC system has to work harder to do its job - which means higher energy bills for you!

How does an HVAC system work:

HVAC systems generally have three major elements: a heating unit, a cooling unit, and a duct to move the air. Bright Hub Engineering explains that an HVAC system starts with the ventilation that brings fresh air into a building. Natural ventilation takes air from open windows, doors, or cracks and uses pressure differences to force the air through a building. With today's tightly sealed homes and offices, this requires the use of fans, blowers, filters, and ducts.

The air is then heated or cooled using a furnace, heat pump, or air conditioner. The type of system you have will depend on the climate in your area and your personal preferences. After the air is heated or cooled, it is distributed throughout the building using a duct system.

This process is repeated over and over again to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. As you can see, your HVAC filter plays an important role in this process - which is why it's important to keep it clean!

What can go wrong if you don't change your HVAC System:

Most homes have some sort of air-conditioning or HVAC system. Each type uses some type of air filter or screen to prevent larger airborne particles from entering the system and clogging sensitive machinery. 

A system that has a dirty filter can suffer from pressure drop, which can lead to no air infiltration at all. Either of these conditions can cause the system to work harder to keep the home warm or cool. 

Any mechanical component that has to work harder to run efficiently puts undue stress on the whole system, which can lead to premature failure, resulting in repair or replacement. 

Also, a dirty filter that’s exposed to condensation can become damp, which can lead to mold growth that can be spread throughout the home by the HVAC system. This can lead to serious health consequences. A compromised unit will likely require servicing and may require replacement, depending on the severity of the moisture problem.

How often should you replace your filter:

The frequency with which you need to replace your HVAC filter depends on a few factors, including the type of filter you're using, the size of your home, and the amount of traffic in your home.

Generally speaking, most homeowners should replace their filters every three months. However, if you have pets or live in a particularly dusty environment, you may need to replace your filter more frequently. Consult your owner's manual or ask your HVAC professional for specific recommendations.

Look If Your Filter Needs to Be Replaced:

You can usually tell if your filter needs to be replaced by looking at it - if it's clogged or damaged, it's time for a new one. Once you've determined that your filter needs to be changed, the next step is to turn off your HVAC system. This is important because it allows you to work on the system without the risk of injury. You can usually find the switch for your HVAC system near the unit itself - it may be labeled "Off" or "Main."

Identify if Your HVAC Unit is Covered by Any Warranty Plan:

Before you start the filter-changing process, it's important to check if your HVAC unit is covered by any warranty plan. In some cases, changing the filter can void the warranty on your unit. If this is the case, you'll need to follow the instructions in your warranty manual on how to change the filter without voiding the warranty.

If you don't have a warranty manual, or if you can't find it, you can usually contact the manufacturer of your HVAC unit and they will be able to help you out.

Identify What Type of Filter You Have:

Next, you need to do is determine what type of filter you have. There are two main types of filters - disposable and reusable. Disposable filters are made of paper or fiberglass and must be replaced every few months. Reusable filters, on the other hand, can be washed and reused multiple times.

Once you know what type of filter you have, you should then make sure that you have the right measurements for your filter. There are a variety of different shapes and sizes of filters, and the manufacturer will include which size and shape are best for your furnace or air conditioner.

If you're not sure how to measure your filter, don't worry - most filters will have the measurements listed on them. If you can't find the measurements, you can always take the filter to a local hardware store and they will be able to help you out.

Purchasing Your Filter:

Once you know the size and type of filter you need, it's time to purchase your filter. You can find filters at most hardware stores, home improvement stores, or online. Be sure to compare prices and reviews before making your purchase, as there are a variety of different brands and types of filters available, and you want to make sure that you're getting a good quality product.

Also, be sure to check the MERV Rating on the filter you are buying and compare it to others to make sure you are purchasing the safest and most efficient filter you can find. The MERV rating is a system that rates the overall effectiveness of an air filter, with a higher number meaning a more effective filter.

It’s important to use the appropriate filter for your unit; using the wrong filter that doesn’t fit the unit properly can create the same types of problems as having a dirty filter. Your HVAC installer can show you where the filter goes and how to remove the old one and install a new one. Your unit may also have an affixed label with directions for easy filter replacement.

If you need help deciding what filter to buy for your HVAC system, Landmark Home Warranty can show you how to choose a filter for your HVAC system here.

Once you have purchased the type of filter that you need, now it's time to replace your filter!

If You Have a Disposable Filter:

- Locate your HVAC unit and identify the housing unit that contains the filter.

- Remove the old filter by gently pulling it out of the housing unit.

- Insert the new filter into the housing unit, making sure that it is positioned correctly.

- Close up the housing unit and turn on your HVAC unit.

If You Have a Reusable Filter:

- Locate your HVAC unit and identify the housing unit that contains the filter.

- Remove the old filter by gently pulling it out of the housing unit.

- Wash the filter with warm, soapy water.

- Rinse the filter with clean water and allow it to air dry.

- Insert the clean, dry filter into the housing unit, making sure that it is positioned correctly.

- Close up the housing unit and turn on your HVAC unit.

Make Sure That Your HVAC System is Performing Correctly:

After you've changed your HVAC filter, it's important to keep an eye on your system to make sure that it is performing correctly. If you notice any strange noises or smells coming from your unit, be sure to contact a professional for assistance.

Additionally, be sure to check the air quality in your home regularly and change your HVAC filter according to the manufacturer's instructions. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your HVAC system runs smoothly and efficiently all winter long!

What to do If your HVAC system is Not Performing Correctly:

If you have followed the instructions above and your HVAC system is still not performing correctly, the first thing you should do is check your warranty. Many HVAC systems come with a warranty that covers repairs or replacement, so be sure to take advantage of this if it is available to you.

If your HVAC system is not covered by a warranty, or if you would prefer to not use your warranty, you can always contact a local HVAC contractor for assistance. A professional will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action to get your system up and running again.

Contact a technician for servicing If...

- Your unit fails to turn back on after replacement.

- The fan is slow or makes excessive noise, or the fins are bent.

- The coils are excessively dusty or clogged.

- You notice moisture intrusion from an unknown source anywhere in the system.

Importance of Indoor Air Quality:

The quality of the air inside your home is just as important as the quality of the air outside. In fact, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, Americans, on average, spend approximately 90 percent of their time indoors, where the concentrations of some pollutants indoors can be up to five times more polluted than in outdoor air. Poor indoor air quality can lead to a variety of health problems, including headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and respiratory infections.

Fortunately, there are several things that you can do to improve the quality of the air in your home. In addition to changing your HVAC filter regularly, you should also avoid using toxic cleaning products, paints, and other chemicals inside your home. You can also improve indoor air quality by opening windows and doors regularly to let fresh air in and by keeping houseplants, which act as natural air purifiers. By taking these simple steps, you can ensure that the air in your home is clean and healthy for you and your family.

Common Knowledge About HVAC Filters:

- HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.

- The purpose of a filter is to remove contaminants from the air.

- There are two main types of filters - disposable and reusable.

- Disposable filters must be replaced every few months, while reusable filters can be washed and reused multiple times.

- Be sure to purchase the correct size and type of filter for your furnace or air conditioner.

This concludes our blog post on how to change an HVAC system. We hope that you found this information helpful and that you will be able to use it to keep your HVAC system running smoothly all winter long! If you run a field service business be sure to take advantage of all the benefits of field service software like Smart Service to help stay competitive and streamline all of your business processes.