How to Replace Your Home Air Filter

Replacing an Air Filter

You should change your air filter on a regular basis to keep your central air system air conditioner, furnace unit, or air handler cabinet in good working order. A lot of people don’t know this, or they just forget about air filter replacement. But it’s an important step to keeping your air clean, improve indoor air quality, protect your HVAC unit, and keep your energy bills low.

Jarboe’s Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is going to show you how to change your air filter easily. Our team explains how to find the right replacement filter for your heating and cooling system as well as how to install the new HVAC filter the right way.

Sizing New Air Filters

Choosing the right size furnace filter is important for the performance of your HVAC system. If the filter is too large or too small, it will not work correctly and could cause issues with your system’s performance and efficiency, as well as indoor air quality.

Fortunately, finding the right size filter is relatively easy. Use a measuring tape to find the length, width, and depth of the cardboard frame on the existing air filter. You can also consult your HVAC system owners manual, which should have information available on the right size furnace filters for use with your equipment.

Select a Filter Type

Choosing the right furnace filter for your home can be tricky. With so many different options on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. Once you have the right size, you can begin to narrow down your choices by considering the different types of filters available. The most common type of furnace filter is a pleated air filter, which is designed to capture large particles such as dust and pollen. If you suffer from allergies or asthma, you may want to consider a high-efficiency filter that is designed to remove even the smallest particles from the air. Whatever type of filter you choose, be sure to change it regularly to ensure that your furnace is running efficiently.

Fiberglass Air Filters

Fiberglass air filters are a type of mechanical air filter that removes contaminants from the air by trapping them on or in the filter material. The filter material is usually made of glass fibers, which can range in diameter from 0.5 to 10 microns. Most fiberglass air filters have a MERV rating of 2-4, which means they are effective at removing large particles such as dust, pollen, and pet dander from the air. In general, fiberglass air filters need to be replaced every 30 to 90 days or so.

Pleated Air Filters

Air filters are an important part of any HVAC system, and pleated air filters are a type of filter that can offer superior performance. Pleated air filters are made with a series of pleats, or folds, in the filter media. This increases the surface area of the filter, which allows it to trap more airborne particles. In addition, pleated air filters can have a higher dust-holding capacity than other types of air filters, meaning they need to be replaced less frequently. As a result, pleated air filters can help to improve indoor air quality and reduce the cost of ownership for your HVAC system.

Washable Air Filters

When it comes to filtering the air in your home, you have a few different options. One of the most popular choices is a washable air filter. Washable air filters are designed to be reused over and over again, which can save you money in the long run. When choosing a washable air filter, it’s important to look for one that is made of high-quality materials. If you choose a cheap filter, it may not last as long or work as well. Another thing to keep in mind is that washable air filters won’t need to be replaced as often as disposable ones, but they do need to be cleaned regularly.

MERV Ratings

MERV ratings are a good way to compare air filters and see which one will work best for your needs. MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, and it is a measure of how well an air filter can remove particles from the air. The higher the MERV rating, the more effective the air filter will be. There are different types of air filters available on the market, and each one has its own MERV rating. For example, a standard pleated air filter typically has a MERV rating around 8, while a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter has a MERV rating of 17. When choosing a new air filter, it is important to consider the MERV rating to make sure you are getting the best possible filtration for your home.

When it comes to choosing an air filter for your HVAC system, it’s important to strike a balance between efficiency and airflow. For most residential systems, a filter with a MERV rating of 13 will provide ample protection against airborne contaminants without restricting air movement. However, if you live in an area with particularly high air pollution or if someone in your household suffers from allergies, you may want to opt for a higher-efficiency filter. Just be sure to check your HVAC equipment’s manufacturer recommendations before making a purchase, as some high-efficiency filters can cause damage to units that are not designed to use them. With a little bit of research, you can find the perfect air filter for your home and ensure that your HVAC system is able to operate at peak efficiency.

How to Replace Home Air Filter Units

Replacing your furnace filter is a quick and easy way to keep your furnace running efficiently and help improve the quality of your indoor air. Here are the simple steps to replace a furnace filter:

  1. Turn off the HVAC system.
  2. Locate the filter slot on your furnace. It’s usually located between the plenum (the main duct that supplies air to the furnace) and the HVAC unit.
  3. Remove the old filter from the slot and dispose of it properly.
  4. Insert the new filter into the filter slot, making sure it’s placed in the same direction as the arrow on the frame. If there is no arrow, be sure to orient the filter so that the airflow arrow on the filter itself is pointing into the furnace.
  5. For HVAC systems with accordion-style filters, simply take the old filter out of the frame and attach the new filter in place of it and return the frame into the filter slot following the correct direction.
  6. Turn on the HVAC system. You should notice improved airflow and improved indoor air quality immediately.

Most people are familiar with the disposable paper or fiberglass filters that go in furnaces and air conditioners. However, many homeowners are now opting for reusable air filters. These filters are made of washable materials, such as nylon or polyester, and can be used over and over again. Not only are they better for the environment, but they also tend to be effective at trapping airborne particles. If you have a reusable air filter, it’s important to clean it on a regular basis. Here are a few simple steps to follow:

  1. Start by removing the filter from your HVAC unit. Most filters are designed to be easily removed and replaced.
  2. Once the filter is out, thoroughly vacuum both sides using a brush attachment. This will help remove any large debris that might be trapped in the filter. For tough deposits, you can use a mild soap mixed with warm water to clean the reusable filter.
  3. Next, rinse the filter with cool water. You can do this in your kitchen sink or outdoors with a garden hose.
  4. Once both sides of the filter have been rinsed, allow it to air dry completely before putting it back in your HVAC unit.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your reusable air filter stays clean and effective for many years to come.

Change Your Air Filter Today

Replacing your home air filter is an important task that should be done regularly to ensure your family’s health and safety. Not only does it keep your HVAC system running smoothly, but a clean air filter also helps improve the quality of the air you breathe indoors.

If you’re not sure how to replace your home air filter or which type of air filter replacement you need to buy, don’t worry. We can help. Our team of experts is here to answer any questions you may have about finding the right replacement air filter for your specific needs. And remember to schedule your annual HVAC tune-up visit!

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