Being a homeowner is great, but it does require some regular maintenance that isn’t always so thrilling. Take changing a furnace filter, for instance. It might not be fun to do, but it is important to keeping your HVAC system running efficiently and avoiding costly repairs down the road.
If you’re like many homeowners, you may not even know what a furnace filter is, let alone how and when to change it! That’s why we’ve compiled a list of simple instructions on how to change a furnace filter in three easy steps.
Determine Which Size Filter You Need
The first thing you need to do is identify which kind of filter you have and need to replace. After you have turned off your furnace, remove the existing filter, which is located just inside the furnace or inside the air return vent.
You should see an arrow on the furnace filter, which will indicate which direction the air flows. Use a sticky note or permanent marker to mark the direction of the air flow on the exterior of the furnace. This way you’ll always know the correct way to install the filter.
Once you’ve removed the filter, make note of its size on the cardboard frame, so you’ll know which size to buy.
Purchase A Replacement Filter
Now that you know what size furnace filter you need, all you have to do is purchase it. You can typically find furnace filters at places like Home Depot, Lowes, Ace Hardware, or even on Amazon.
Install Your New Filter
When installing your new furnace filter, you’ll see markings that tell you which side of the filter should face the furnace. Slide the filter into place and put the cover back over it. Keep note of the date you changed the filter, so you know when to change it again.
Need Help? We’re Here!
Changing a filter of course isn’t very difficult, but if you let the filter go for a while and you’d like to not only replace it but have someone inspect and service anything in your HVAC system that may need repaired, we are always here to help. Simply CLICK HERE and you can schedule an appointment at a time that is convenient for you to have us come out to your home and get you fixed up and ready to go.
BONUS: How often should I change my furnace filter?
You may think you only need to change your furnace filter once a year, but this can cause your furnace to work too hard, overheat and shut down. A good rule of thumb is to check the filter once a month. Hold your furnace filter up to the light. If you cannot see the light clearly, it is time to replace the filter.