Energy.gov, the government agency that oversees the Energy Star program, states that frequently changing the air filter in your home’s heating and cooling system is the most important thing you can do to improve its efficiency. Taking the simple step of making sure that your HVAC air filter never gets too dirty can reduce the cost of running your air conditioner by up to 15% and increase the time between air conditioner replacements.
How Often to Change Home Air Filters?
During periods of heavy use (like a typical summer in North Carolina) aim to change your HVAC air filter every 30 days. It’s also suggested that you install a new air filter every month based on the type of air filter style you’re using. In the case of a non-pleated style air filter, they typically don’t trap particles as well due to its smooth surface which means it fills up more quickly and can cause your air conditioner to become less efficient. On the plus side, non-pleated air filters typically cost less upfront.
You can go longer without changing the air filter when the demand placed on your air conditioner isn’t quite so high, but you shouldn’t let more than 90 days pass without installing a new filter. Fortunately, the process of monitoring your current air filter and replacing it with a new one is simple.
A Word About MERV Ratings
If anyone in your home suffers from allergies or asthma, or you have general concerns about indoor air quality, it’s recommended that you look for an air filter with a minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) of between 7 and 12. The higher the number, the smaller the air particles the filter can trap without releasing them back into the air that you and your family members breathe.
7 Steps to Replacing an Air Filter
Replacing your air filter is an important maintenance task for your HVAC unit, and it’s something that you can easily do yourself. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you replace your air filter:
- Locate the air filter.
The air filter is typically located in a slot between the plenum (a metal box located next to the unit) and the air handler (a large box that chills the air in your home). It’s also important to note during this step that the air filter could be located behind a panel or grille that you’ll need to remove to access it.
- Turn off your air conditioner.
To avoid potential injuries and prevent dust from penetrating the filter, it’s important to turn off your air conditioner before you begin replacing the air filter.
- Remove the old air filter.
The old filter should slide out easily without having to tug on it. Take note of the size of the filter so you can purchase the correct replacement filter.
- Check for gaps.
Check the slot where the filter was installed to make sure there are no gaps around the filter. If there are gaps, it could mean that you purchased the wrong-sized filter or that there is a problem with the slot itself.
- Insert the new air filter.
Slide the new filter in, making sure that the arrow on the filter indicating the direction of airflow is facing towards the unit’s blower and the ductwork in your home. The filter should slide in easily without any trouble.
- Turn on the air conditioner.
Once you’ve replaced the air filter, turn the air conditioner back on. You should immediately notice improved air flow and better air quality in your home.
- Schedule regular filter replacements.
Depending on the type of filter you’re using, you may need to replace your air filter every 1-3 months. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations to determine how often and when you should be replacing your air filter and make sure to schedule regular replacements to keep your HVAC unit running smoothly.
Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance
You depend on your HVAC system to keep you warm in the fall and winter and cool in the spring and summer. Besides changing the air filter regularly, be sure to schedule preventive maintenance or our Advantage HVAC Service Agreement with City Air Experts Heating and Cooling in Charlotte, NC.
Late spring to early summer is ideal for an air conditioner tune-up, while late fall to early winter is the best time for preventive maintenance of your heating system. You can head into those seasons feeling confident that your HVAC system can manage the extra demands placed on it.
Let the Certified Technicians from City Air Experts Take Care of Your HVAC System
No matter what your heating and cooling needs may be, the certified technicians at City Air Experts can help. Our local HVAC company celebrates over 15 years of providing residential HVAC services to homeowners in Cabarrus, Gaston, Iredell, Lancaster, Lincoln, Mecklenburg, Monroe, and York counties, and we can help you, too! Please contact us for maintenance, air conditioning repairs, or installation needs today!
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