Your home heating and cooling systems are equipped with air filters designed to capture dust, allergens, dirt, and other grime so you do not breathe in those nasty particles. Though it is quite easy to forget about these filters, they will eventually require replacement. Fail to replace your HVAC filters when necessary and you will inevitably end up with dirty air circulating throughout your living or working space. Ideally, this filter will be checked once every three months. When in doubt, it is better to err on the conservative side by replacing the air filter sooner rather than later. This way, you and your loved ones will be provided with a steady stream of perfectly clean indoor air.
Change Your Air Filter
Here’s how you can change your HVAC filter safely.
Do not attempt to change the filter while the unit is on: Turn off the HVAC system before getting to work. If you feel even slightly uncomfortable changing the filter, do the smart thing by requesting assistance from our Big Bear heat and air team. We will inspect and change your system’s air filters on your behalf when necessary.
- Select the proper filter for your heating/cooling unit: This should be done to ensure it is the right make, suitable for your model and in good condition.
- Take a close look at the directions on the heating/cooling unit: Doing so is necessary to ensure you are installing the new filter in the proper manner. As an example, some filters require specific colors for the rear and front in accordance with the upstream/downstream flow. Adhere to these guidelines to guarantee the filters do not end up installed backward.
- Pay close attention to the filter frame as you place the new filter: If there are open spaces around the frame, it is a sign the filter is not the right size. Such gaps are also a clue that the filter is damaged or possibly even defective.
- Look for residual dust and other particles before securing the new filter in place: If you find any such dust, clean it up with a rag. Our Big Bear heat and air team are here to replace seals, gaskets, and levers as necessary so be sure to make a mental note if any of those components appear even slightly compromised.
Once the new filter is secured in place, turn on the heating or cooling unit. At this point, it is prudent to observe the unit as it operates to guarantee the filter remains firmly in place.
Record the Date of Your Filter Replacement for Posterity’s Sake
Write down the day of the filter replacement after switching out the old one for the new one. This information should be recorded on the wall near the heating/cooling unit. This way, you won’t forget where you wrote down the information pertaining to filter replacement. If it turns out that the filter ends up with an abundance of dust, dirt or other gunk in the following weeks or months, it is a sign there is an issue with the unit itself or even the ventilation system as a whole. Continue to monitor the frequency at which the filter is replaced, a record that information and you will have a reference point that helps you gauge whether it is functioning as designed.
Do not be Afraid to ask for Help From the Big Bear Heat and Air Experts
If the heating or cooling unit does not turn back on after filter replacement or for any other reason, do not attempt DIY (do it yourself) troubleshooting. Instead, do the smart thing by reaching out to our Big Bear heat and air specialists for assistance. Furthermore, if the fan makes an abundance of noise or is slower than usual, it is best to have it inspected and possibly repaired by a professional. Even slightly bent fan fins will require professional repair or replacement.
Additional red flags include:
- Clogged coils
- Dusty coils
- Unexpected moisture within the system
When in doubt, be safe rather than sorry. Ask for assistance from our Big Bear Heat and Air gurus and we will ensure your home or business HVAC systems function exactly as they should.
Why Monthly Filter Inspections Might be Necessary
Some homeowners will find it is better to inspect and change their filter once per month as opposed to once every couple of months. If you have one or several pets, it is in your interest to take a look at the HVAC filters on a monthly basis. Pet dander is likely to become airborne and move throughout the ventilation system similar to the manner in which dust moves.
Furthermore, those who have more than one or two people in the house should also inspect and possibly change their heating and cooling system filters on a monthly basis. More people in the house means there will be that much more dirt, dust, allergens and other debris moving throughout the living space as well as the heating and cooling units. Finally, those who smoke indoors should take a close look at their air filter on a monthly basis to determine if it has become soiled to the point that replacement is necessary.
Conclusion:
Not changing the air filter in your HVAC system in a timely manner can result in poor indoor air quality in your home or workplace. You and your loved ones deserve to breathe air that is clean, fresh, and healthy. This is why you should ensure that the air filters are replaced on time and maintained well. Do not hesitate to engage the professionals for this crucial job, if required. Hopefully, the above tips will help you understand how this process can be performed in a safe and efficient manner.
Call Our Big Bear Heat and Air Contractors for Help with Changing Your Air Filter
Not replacing your HVAC filter can result in the circulation of unclean and unhealthy in your home or office. You don’t want to put your and your family’s health at risk. Fortunately, our Big Bear heat and air specialists are a call away. Dial (909) 584-4376 to learn more about HVAC air filters, maintenance, repairs, and replacement.
If you are looking for a Big Bear plumbing, heating & air conditioning contractor, please call (909) 584-4376 or complete our online request form.
Category: HVAC Maintenance & Repair
