Even though California residents enjoy long, comfortable summers, everyone knows what’s coming soon. Cooler weather!
If you haven’t replaced your furnace air filter yet, now is a great time to put it on your to-do list. Are you feeling nervous because you’re a new homeowner and haven’t explored your HVAC system?
Read today’s article for tips on how to replace an air filter. It’s one of the easiest home maintenance mini-projects you can do without help.
Why Air Filters Matter
Isn’t talking about furnaces and cold weather counterproductive right now? After all, you’re still enjoying an extended summer. There’s the old saying about how fast time flies!
If you’re wondering why your HVAC team puts so much emphasis on replacing your air filters, here’s why.
Keep a clean filter in your furnace, and you can avoid unnecessary repairs and may even extend your system’s life. Routine furnace filter changes also help your furnace run more efficiently.
Finally, since furnace filters trap dust, dirt, and other allergens, they play a role in your indoor air quality. If anyone in your household suffers from asthma or allergies or you have pets, it’s essential to keep the air as clean as possible. It’s a little like preventing a clogged drain in your plumbing system.
Clogged drains and dirty air filters—both will impact the enjoyment of homeownership!
How to Replace an Air Filter By Yourself
Everyone has a first day on the job! If you’re a new homeowner, you’re likely still learning about the many responsibilities that come with the position. We’re betting you already know when it’s time to call a plumber vs. calling for furnace repair.
What you might not know yet are the steps to follow when changing a furnace filter. Here they are, in order:
- Turn off the furnace
- Locate the blower compartment
- Slide the old filter out
- Slide in the new filter
New homeowners and DIYers often ask what direction the new filter goes into the filter rack. Insert the filter with the arrows facing toward the furnace and away from the return duct.
These instructions assume you’ve already purchased your air filter. Next, we’ll talk about choosing the best filter for your furnace. How often you replace air filters depends on the filter type.
What Is the Best Air Filter for a Home Furnace?
You’ll find air filters at any hardware, home improvement, or big-box store. Most home improvement stores have one section devoted to an almost maddening array of filters. Don’t let the air filter aisle stress you out—it’s not difficult to choose the best filter.
Here are your basic options:
- Fiberglass Filter
- Pleated Paper Filter
- Electrostatic Filter
You’ll also want to check out a few facts about MERV ratings before you choose your filter.
Need to Schedule Service?
Once you’ve changed your air filter once, you’ll see why it’s one project you can do on your own with confidence. You can even show your friends how to change an air filter if they’re wary of doing it themselves.
Now, for plumbing maintenance! Like your furnace, pipes and drains need routine care. Reach out to our team today. We can’t fix your furnace, but we’re plumbing experts!