If it has been longer than 3 months since you last changed your air filter then now is the time to do it, especially if it is also used for your air conditioning system. To get the most efficient and effective use of your HVAC systems you need to do one easy maintenance task that you can do on your own and that is changing the air filter.
What Does the Air Filter Do?
Your furnace air filter does more than protect the air quality. Its main purpose is to protect the inside components of the furnace itself from unwanted debris such as dirt, pet hair dust and even cigarette smoke, which gets sucked in by the high speed fan. This debris can dirty or clog up the furnace system and has the potential to cause damage.
The Impact of a Dirty Furnace Filter
HVAC systems are designed to draw in a set amount of air which helps to ensure that you always feel comfortable and also keeps the HVAC system from running too long. If the filter is clogged up with debris it will not allow the right amount of air through which has a negative impact on more than just your comfort. Not only will you feel less comfortable, but you will also be paying more to use your furnace because it will have to run continuously to try to reach the desired temperature. A clogged up air filter can cause problems such as:
- Short-cycling
- Overheating
- Freezing coils
- Emergency repairs
How to Change Your Air Filter
You can easily prevent the above mentioned problems by regularly changing the air filter yourself every 1 to 3 months depending on the type of air filter you have. It will say on the side of the filter when you should change it.
To change it you will find a marked point near the air handler with arrows directing you on how and where to remove it. Dispose of it and replace with a new one.
Tip: write the date you changed the filter on the cardboard frame around it. That way you’ll be able to tell at a glance when it was done, and when it should be changed again.
Can I Clean It Instead?
There are reusable filters available that can be cleaned instead of changed, but please note this does not apply to ALL filters. Be sure to completely dry the filter before inserting it back in to prevent any mold forming.
Not sure how to change your air filter? Or perhaps it’s been a long time, and you’re worried about potential damage inside your HVAC system? Contact Kings Heating and Air Conditioning in Lynnwood for assistance. We love to help!
