According to ENERGY STAR, you should inspect and replace your furnace’s air filter every month during peak heating season. That means you should be calling your HVAC service technician more frequently.
Let your service technician complete your furnace replacement in Birmingham, AL, before starting up your furnace for the fall and winter. They can ensure that you have the necessary filters on hand and instruct you or your maintenance personnel to properly install and remove the air filters.
To give you an idea, here are the simple steps to change your furnace filter:
Step 1: Find Your Furnace Filter and Remove It
Typically, the air filter is found in or near the blower system. This is often located towards the front of the furnace, near the bottom. You may be able to view and reach the filter without fiddling with the system, or you may need to open a metal panel on the front or top of the blower. Hooks or screws can be used to secure the panel.
Slide the filter out of the slot that keeps it in place after you’ve gained access to it.
Step 2: Examine the Condition of the Filter
Check the condition once you’ve removed the filter. Does it appear to be filthy and dusty? If you don’t see much light coming through it when you hold it up, it’s too clogged to do you and your HVAC system much good. Depending on the sort of filter you’re using, it has to be replaced or cleaned.
Many things can influence how quickly your filters clog. The pollution in Alabama may reduce the life of an air filter significantly.
Step 3: Purchase a New Furnace Filter or Clean A Reusable One
Are the filters you’re using disposable or reusable? A disposable filter is usually made of cardboard with a paper or fiber mesh surface. A permanent, reusable filter is constructed of a more durable substance with a metal frame and a washable coating.
If you’re replacing a filter, verify the size printed on the frame to ensure you can get the correct replacement. Also, look for the MERV rating (a number between 1 to 12), which indicates the size of particles the filter can catch and keep out of your furnace and the air in your home. A higher number indicates that it captures tiny particles such as viruses.
If you’re cleaning a reusable filter, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s washing guidelines. Most likely, all you’ll need to do is rinse it with water and let it dry thoroughly. In certain circumstances, you may vacuum the dust away.
Step 4: Insert the New or Clean Furnace Filter
Now that you have your new or cleaned filter, all you have to do is reinstall it in the proper location. An arrow on the filter’s frame indicates how air should travel through the filter, away from the return air duct and toward the blower motor. Make sure the arrow on the filter points away from the return and toward the blower when you replace it in the housing.
Replace the metal panel on the blower unit if necessary. If there is anything to repair, you can also request a furnace repair from your service technician.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to change your air filter as recommended, you must learn more about other essential furnace replacement and HVAC maintenance tasks. Make sure to keep your HVAC systems running efficiently and reliably all year.
AutumnAir is a family-owned company providing HVAC and AC repair and replacement services. We also offer residential and commercial electrical services, including furnace replacement in Birmingham, AL. Get a free estimate today!