It’s important to change your AC filter from time to time.
It’s important to change your AC filter from time to time. Whenever the filter gets too old, too clogged, or too filthy, it is no longer effective. Besides keeping your home’s air supply clean, the filters are meant to keep dust and other contaminants out of your HVAC system, full stop. Unfortunately, the chances of severe wear and tear also increase dramatically. Once the parts wear out, they are dangerously close to breaking down. So what can you do about this? We can tell you!
Find Where the Filter Is
Begin by locating the filter. Once you’ve figured out where it is, you can go about changing it. Depending on the configuration of your HVAC system, you might need to look in the return air duct. Alternatively, larger systems will have multiple filters, air handlers, and return ducts. This setup makes your task even harder. The blower system and furnace might be equipped with filters as well.
Make Sure the New Filter Fits
You’ve also got to verify that the new AC filter you want to install is the right size. Luckily, you can tell what size the filters are by the handy label printed on the side. Ordinary filters only trap dust and dirt, but for more efficient ways to eliminate allergens like pollen or mold, consider switching to HEPA filters that carry a MERV rating of 10 or more.
Switch Off the Power Supply
Now it’s finally time to change out the AC filter. Start by switching off the power supply. Doing this will protect you against shock-induced injuries. Plus, it protects the system against further dust infiltration.
Take Out the Old Filters
The next step is to take out the old filters. Then, all you have to do is to slide it out from the slot where you found it.
Check On Their Condition
Once you have pulled the old filters out, inspect them. Hold it up to the light – if you can’t see anything, then it’s too choked with dust and dirt. Think of the lint trap in your dryer after its latest cycle has run – your air filter shouldn’t look like that!
Clean or Replace As Needed
Some types of filters can be cleaned before reuse, while others are meant to be disposable. Disposable filters have cardboard frames and paper or fiber mesh surfaces. You can put sturdier filters back after a “bath,” but for the disposables, you’ll just have to throw them away.
We Are Proud of the Company We Keep
William E. Kingswell has remained a distinguished provider of commercial and residential heating and cooling services since 1937. We have provided unmatched customer service to all of our clients. We enjoy being the preferred HVAC equipment distributor of countless customers. We offer a comprehensive range of high-quality heat pumps, boilers, unit heaters, HVAC accessories, and more. William E. Kingswell works with businesses and homeowners throughout Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Virginia, including Baltimore, Frederick, Annapolis, Fairfax, Manassas, Richmond, Fredericksburg, Virginia Beach, and Leesburg. To learn more about our extensive range of SpacePak, Concord, Allied Commercial, and Bard HVAC equipment, give us a call at 301-937-1900 or contact us today!