How to Change Your HVAC Filter | A Quick Guide for Clean Air

The air quality in your home and office space relies pretty heavily on the condition of your air filter. The air’s quality can affect everything from your health to your comfort. That’s why it is very important to make sure that your HVAC  system is running on a clean filter. If you’re still wondering how to change a filter, you are in the right place, because today, we’re diving into how to change an HVAC filter to make sure your indoor air quality and comfort are in optimal shape. 

Let’s get started!

Why Changing Your HVAC Filter Matters

When you are diligent in making sure that your HVAC filter is fresh is an integral part of keeping up your indoor air quality and elongating the lifespan of the system. If your system is dirty or clogged, your HVAC will have to work harder to keep the temperature consistent in your space, not to mention the dirt and allergens it leaves polluting the air, because it’s unable to filter them properly. 

A harder-working HVAC system means higher utility bills. When you learn how to change an HVAC filter, you’ll actively be working to lessen monthly costs but also making sure your air is clean and free of contaminants. Don’t you want your home to be happy and healthy?

When you neglect your filter changes, you are opening yourself up to system breakdowns, bad airflow, and quicker dust accumulation. A good rule of thumb is to change (or have your filters changed) every 1-3 months.

Tools and Preparations 

Don’t start pulling filters out of sockets just yet, it’s time to start gathering supplies. A few things you’ll need include:

• Replacement filter
• Screwdriver (if needed)
• Vacuum or damp  clothes (for clean up)

Once you’ve gotten all you need together, it’s time to prepare the HVAC system. Make sure that you are powering it off before conducting your filter replacement. Effective preparation mitigates the skipping of any vital steps.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Change HVAC Filter 

• Locate the FIlter: First up, find the old filter. A lot of times, you’ll find them behind the return air grilles in your HVAC unit or in a designated slot. If you’re still having trouble finding it,  consult your system manual. 

• Turn  Off the System: This is critical! You always want to make sure your system is switched off to stop debris and dirt from spreading in the air upon filter removal.

• Remove the Old Filter: Carefully pull out the old filter making sure no dust or dirt spills. 

• Clean the Area: Remember that vacuum and damp cloth? Now is the time to use it! Clean up any excess debris that came from the removal. 

• Insert the New Filter: When you’re inserting the new filter, make sure that the arrows on it match the airflow direction of your HVAC system.  Once you’ve verified that,  go ahead and slide it in securely. 
• Turn the System Back  On: Turn the system back on and enjoy the fruits of your labor! It’s time to soak up some of that amazing indoor air quality.

When you understand how to change an HVAC filter, you stand to save yourself a lot of heartache. It’s a very simple and powerful way to elevate the performance of your system and boost the air quality and overall comfort of your home.

The Benefits of Regular HVAC Filter Changes 

Taking the time to understand how to change an HVAC filter is only the first step, actually doing it is a whole new story. Changing your air filter will help you obtain cleaner air, lower your energy consumption, and prevent unnecessary wear and tear on the system over time. When you are proactive about your HVAC filter changes, your home is sure to stay comfy all year round, 

Tips for Maintaining Your HVAC System

It’s important to note that changing our HVAC is only one element of an entire maintenance machine. If you want to be sure that your system will be able to withstand your demands, make sure that you are having your regular maintenance conducted–especially before the peak seasons start to fire up. 

If you’re not sure where to start, you can always count on the Optimum Air Solutions team to keep your HVAC system running in tip-top shape. Click here to schedule a consultation. We’ll work with you closely to understand your heating and cooling needs to deliver client-centric solutions. Trust, your HVAC system is in good hands when you partner with Optimum Air Solutions. 

We’ll have you breathing easy in the Big Easy in no time.