Replacing the air filter in your forced air furnace is an important part of maintaining your HVAC system. Not only does it help keep your home's air clean, but it also helps extend the life of your furnace and reduce energy bills. Here's a step-by-step guide to replacing your furnace filter. First, turn off the power to the furnace so that it doesn't start up while you're in the middle of changing the filter. Then, pull out the old filter from its slot.
If it's held in place by clips, unfasten them and remove the filter. When inserting the new filter, make sure to pay attention to the airflow arrow mark on the filter. It should point toward the furnace or fan when you install it. You can choose from a variety of filters, from basic fiberglass filters that need to be changed every one to two months, to more expensive filters that can improve air quality by trapping bacteria, pollen, and mold spores.
If you have a central forced air heating and cooling system, you may need to order a custom filter if the size is rare. Take three measurements: the depth of the return air duct, and the height and width of the space in which the air cleaner slides. You can also opt for a box filter that's 4 inches or more thick and contains several layers of filter material. Varieties such as FilterBuy MERV 8 air filters (available on Amazon) are a little more expensive but will last from four months to a year.
Or you can choose 6-stage electrostatic air filters (also available on Amazon) that can be rinsed with a garden hose as needed and reused for several years if properly maintained. Once you've chosen your new filter, insert it into the slot where the old one was. If clips are used, place the filter in them and reattach them. Then, locate the air cleaner inside either inside the air duct system or inside the indoor HVAC unit itself. Replacing your furnace filter regularly is an important part of keeping your HVAC system running efficiently and improving indoor air quality. With proper maintenance, you'll be able to enjoy clean air in every room of your home.
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