How to Replace Your Dirty Furnace Air Filters

Do you remember the last time you checked your furnace filter? If not, it’s probably due for a replacement. A dirty air filter can reduce airflow, make your furnace work harder, double energy costs, and land you costly repairs. Therefore, the following article provides complete guidelines to help you replace your dirty furnace filters. 

First, you may find the slot for your filter close to the blower area or even in your ductwork. Next, shut down your heating and cooling system. Slide out the old filter, remove debris blocking the slot, and put in a new one, ensuring the airflow arrow goes toward the furnace. That’s it! Turn on the system, and you are ready to go!

Determine the Right Size of Your Furnace Filter

When finding the furnace filter, you should be very sensitive regarding the sizes needed. HVAC systems usually use filters of different sizes, and using the wrong filter may lead to some problems. For example, while a 2-inch slot is made for or can use a 2-inch or larger filter, a 1-inch filter will lead to breakdowns and potentially harm the system. 

Moreover, you should not use several 1-inch filters together to fit a 4-inch slot unless specifically approved by your manufacturer. You can check your manufacturer’s recommendations first or get help from furnace repair technicians.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Furnace Air Filters

If you follow the right method, replacing your furnace filter could be less challenging and quick. Here are simple and practical steps for this purpose. 

Step 1: Locate the Filter Slot

The filter slot is usually located in the ductwork leading to your furnace or inside the blower compartment. In some cases, you will have to lift your furnace cover to expose it. If you can’t find this information, check your operation manual. Can’t find one? Ask your HVAC technician or service provider for help.

Step 2: Shut Off the System

Before replacing the filter, turn your HVAC system off. You cannot allow it to run while you work, as you will move up the dust or debris blown further into the unit. Switch off the system using the manual switch on your thermostat, and turn off the system until you replace the new filter.

Step 3: Remove the Old Filter

Simply pull the old filter out from its slot. If you employ a system that features an electrostatic filter, unplug it before drawing out the filter. Under normal conditions, the filter should come out effortlessly without any resistance.

Step 4: Install the New Filter

Put that new filter in the slot so there will be no interference, and it fits perfectly. Observe the arrow marked on the side of the filter; it indicates the direction of the airflow, and it must point to your furnace. Air comes through the condenser outdoors, ducts, and into the air handler if placed correctly. The filter should not sag or bend with time. Most filters also have frames made of metal, plastic, or cardboard to keep them in shape.

Step 5: Turn the System Back On

Replace the new filter and turn your thermostat back on. Your system is now ready to work. Scheduled filter changes can keep your furnace running well and improve indoor air quality.

How Often Should You Change Your Furnace Filter?

Filter replacement is essential when it becomes covered with dust, clogged with pet hair, or appears dirty. For instance, houses with pets may experience buildups faster due to hair and dander.

The thickness and design of the filter also determine changes. Based on their structure, here is a breakdown of replacement duration.

• Change 1-inch filter within 1 to 3 months
• Change 2-inch filter within 1 to 3 months
• Change 3-inch filter within 6 to 9 months
• Change 4-inch filter within 6 to 9 months
• Change 5-inch filter within 9 to 12 months
• Change 6-inch filter within 9 to 12 months

Why Is It Important to Change Your Furnace Filter Frequently?

Grime-covered filters put stress on the motor, and if not discovered in a timely manner, the damage may reach the metal framework of the ductwork. Furthermore, a dirty filter makes your system work harder and for longer, which generally contributes to higher energy bills. Therefore, filters should be changed frequently to prevent costly repairs in the future and keep utility costs in check.

Conclusion

All in all, changing our dirty furnace air filters never goes wrong. A clean filter ensures better airflow in your house and makes your HVAC system run efficiently, saving you energy when you pay bills and breakdowns. To replace your dirty furnace air filters, follow the above guide without requiring special equipment or technical knowledge.

To do this, power off the system, locate the filter slot and remove the old filter. Then, install the new filter and turn on the system again. For better results, check your filters regularly and replace them regularly or more often during peak seasons. In case of any problem, you can seek professional assistance from furnace repair experts at a reliable company. 

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