Your HVAC system is amazing for keeping the air in your home cool and fresh. However, the system doesn’t last forever, especially when it is used frequently. Let us take a very close look at how to change the air filter in your HVAC system.
Shut it off
To start things off, you need to shut off the system. Changing the filter while the system is running is a hazardous practice that should never be attempted. It could lead to electrical shock or permanent damage to your HVAC appliances. Fully shut the HVAC system off. If possible, don’t just turn all of your appliances off. Get to the root of the power source and temporarily disable it for a completely safe mission. In the meantime, you can rely on open windows and other ventilation sources to get you through the day. Besides, it’s simply good to know how to shut off your HVAC system on demand. These appliances are prone to overheat, and you should be able to shut off the system at a moment’s notice if this occurs. Consider this as an opportunity to learn. If you don’t want to change the air filter yourself, you may find a technician from here http://onthespothvac.com/rockwall-tx/
Remove access panels
Next, you’ll want to remove the access panels on the exterior of the HVAC system. These are usually very easy to locate. Different systems have different types of panels. Some come off by simply flicking the latch, while others require a set of tools. Once you have removed the panels, you might as well give them a good cleaning while you’re at it. A clean set of panels means that the air can flow freely and undisturbed through the vents. Remember that any dust within the panels could eventually end up in the air, and this is something you don’t want to be breathing.
Remove the old filter.
After dealing with the access panels, you need to handle the filter. Remove the old filter and set it aside. Once again, you might need to use some basic mechanical tools to get this done. Before you completely toss the air filter out, check it for any damage or fractures. If you notice issues, this could be a sign that there is a deeper problem with your HVAC system. There’s nothing worse than changing the filter, and the new one quickly meets the same demise as the old one. Think about why you’re changing the filter in the first place. Was there something wrong with the previous one? Or is it only time for a change? Either way, take note of any deterioration. This is part of being a good homeowner and getting to the root of your HVAC problems.
Insert the new filter
Here’s the fun part. Insert the new filter into the gap and secure it tightly. It’s especially important to secure the filter, as a loose filter can come from the hinges and bounce around inside the system. Not only will the air conditioning unit not work, but you’re likely looking at permanent damage to the system. If you’re replacing the filter with a slightly different model, take extra care to make sure it’s a good fit. Although you’re probably making a change for the better, it will be prone to misalignment or other small issues.
Close the panels
You’re just undoing your steps at this point. Close the panels on the HVAC system and secure these as well. All in all, you shouldn’t be able to notice a difference from the outside. If anything is sticking out, you’ll want to align the parts better so that the unit exists in one piece. When panels aren’t fully closed, airflow is disrupted, and the air might not be chilled or purified.
Turn on the system
Last but not least, turn on the system to feel the effect of your work. Is there an improvement in air quality? If you can’t tell the difference right away, don’t worry. It can sometimes take a few hours for the air conditioner to warm up to its standard settings. This is also a good opportunity to check for any anomalies. Sometimes you might hear a whirling noise coming from the heart of the system. This is a sign that something wasn’t quite put back properly. In particular, you’ll want to experiment with various settings of the air conditioner. Turn it from low to medium to high, and see how it responds. Change the direction where the vents are blowing. After all, you swapped out the air filter, and you should expect the air to be breathable at the very least.
Our other air conditioning guides you may read:-
Tips To Finding The Best Air Conditioner Rental Service Near You
Air Conditioner Tips – A guide To Air Conditioning Installation
7 Tips On Choosing Your HVAC System
Conclusion
When all is said and done, these are some great ways to change the air filter in your air conditioning system. If you don’t change the air filter, the resulting air will be musty and unclean overall. Change the filter regularly to provide your family with fresh air!
