You can learn to change your HVAC filter in a few ways. The best route is to find the owner’s manual for your system and follow the manufacturer’s specific instructions (to minimize any risk of making a mistake). You can also turn to our air conditioning repair company in Henderson, NV, at Ambient Edge, who will come out, change the filter for you, and even teach you how to do the work yourself if you would like.
When to Change Your HVAC Filter
Though each manufacturer is a bit different, replacing or cleaning your air filter at least once every three months is beneficial when determining how often you should change your HVAC filter. In some situations, it may be best to do so more often. We recommend more frequent filter changes in situations such as:
- High dust and debris in the area
- Someone in the home has an allergy or is sensitive to dust
- A significant amount of outdoor construction or indoor renovations are happening
- An older system that may not be as powerful as newer models
- Increased energy usage to cool your home
In these situations, changing your HVAC filter more often is critical to ensure less dust and debris gets into your ductwork (and that means less gets into your home’s air supply). At Ambient Edge, we do not want you to replace your filters too soon especially if it is not going to produce any real benefits to you, though. It is about changing them properly that counts.
Make Sure to Check on that Warranty
If your home’s heating and cooling system has a warranty in place, you may be required to replace the filter at a specific length of time (and sometimes document that you are doing so). Failure to do so could mean your warranty is at risk. Let us tackle the process for you if you are not sure when to replace your filters for your warranty.
How to Tackle Your Own HVAC Filter Change
Though each air conditioner and heating system may be a bit different, the process of removing the air filter and replacing it involves the same basic steps. Keep in mind that the process is not necessarily difficult, but it can be burdensome to those who may have trouble reaching the area. Consider these steps in the process:
- Turn off the power. Turn off all power going to the HVAC system at the source. This reduces the risk of being electrocuted.
- Remove the access panels from the system. These are located on the side of the air conditioner, typically, and tend to have instructions for removing them on them.
- Remove the old filter. You will easily be able to pull out the filter once it is visible (you may have to tug a bit, but it should come out in one piece). Discard it.
- Place the new, same-sized HVAC filter in its place. It should again slip right into place.
- Close up the access panels properly, screwing them into place. Then, turn the HVAC back on to get the system running again.
That is all that needs to be done, but the process is not always that simple or efficient. You may have some trouble with the build-up of material and debris throughout the system. There can also be complications in accessing your system that are best left to the professionals to handle.
Do You Have a Reusable Filter?
Some home heating and cooling systems, especially older models, have reusable filters. In these situations, you still follow the same process, but you will remove the filter, clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and then replace it. This may be a bit more challenging since these filters may be larger and bulky, not to mention difficult to clean, so call Ambient Edge today.
The Benefits of Letting Our Professionals Handle HVAC Filter Replacement
You can change your HVAC filter yourself now, but there are a few reasons why you may want to contact our team at Ambient Edge to do the work for you instead (especially if you do not want to waste your day with this messy chore). Our HVAC technicians are certified professionals trained to do more than just remove the filter. Our professionals will also provide additional services, if desired, to you while cleaning and replacing the filters:
- A visual check: If we notice any concerns with your home’s heating and cooling system while changing your HVAC filter, we will let you know about them now. That could help prevent an emergency repair call down the road.
- Cleaning the interior: If it has been a while since you changed the filters, you may benefit from proper cleaning of the interior of the unit. It is not always safe for you to do things yourself without training.
- Inspect your system’s programmable thermostat: While we are out at your home, we can also provide you with an update of your home’s thermostat. That may help you to improve the energy efficiency in your home.
- Preventative maintenance: Our team can also handle any of the preventative maintenance tasks that your manufacturer recommends and requires, which are more than just cleaning the filters.
- Provide you with support: When we visit your home, let us know if you have any concerns about your heating and cooling system. We are happy to troubleshoot for you at that time.
With highly skilled and experienced professionals ready to do the work for you, Ambient Edge is your go-to provider for all air filter replacements and system updates. Give us a call for the help you need. Expect us to do all we can to ensure your system is running properly.
Schedule an Appointment for an HVAC Filter Replacement Now
Call Ambient Edge to set up a time for our certified technicians to come to your home to change out your HVAC filter. Let us get the job done for you right away without frustration and no messes to clean up either. We can give you a quote for this service when you call us to schedule an appointment.