On HVAC Filters…
This time of year, it’s especially important to keep up with your HVAC filter replacement. With pollen count climbing and hot weather on the way, your HVAC system needs to breathe freely. A blocked up air filter makes your system work harder to maintain the same temperature, sending your electric bills climbing and making repair bills more likely over time. Replacing your filter once a month is best, but if you’re in a high air quality environment, you might go as far as once a quarter. If your HVAC system “freezes up” from time to time when in Cold function, or sounds louder and louder over time, a clogged up air filter is your first suspect.
You can figure out the size of filter you need by examining the old one. The size is written in LxWxH format along the side. You can get replacements from big-box stores, grocery stores, and hardware stores. Dollar stores sometimes carry them as well, but low quality air filters should be replaced more frequently, and may not deliver the filtration promised. Most AC systems will fit a 1” high filter. If yours can take a larger height filter, using one will extend the time between filter changes significantly.
The MERV rating indicates how small of a particle the filter will block. Higher MERV ratings are more expensive. If you’re allergen sensitive or someone smokes, pick a MERV rating over 13. If you just need basic filtration, a MERV 7 is the lowest we recommend. Some stores like to use “FPR” or “MPR” to rate filters. These are not industry standards, but there is usually a chart near the filters that gives you a MERV to “xPR” translation.
Air filters are installed in the HVAC air return line, usually either behind a cover with thumb screws at the base of the air handler/furnace, or if there is a single return for the whole system, behind a large access grate on the ceiling or wall near where the air handler is installed.
One last tip - Air filters are directional! There is an arrow on the side that points in the direction the air flows. Since these are installed in return lines, you want this arrow pointing towards the air handler when the filter is installed. Which side faces out isn’t important, so long as it fits.
Want to DIY but can’t find where the filter goes? Drop us a comment with a picture of the indoor part of the HVAC system or contact us and we’ll try to help. Tired of changing filters and draining water heaters and cleaning gutters and all that regular house maintenance? We’re here for you. Our custom-fit regular home maintenance service, which includes all needed supplies and consumables, will leave you worry-free and extend the life of your most essential household systems. During these visits we can also check for signs of water damage and mold, check the condition of attics and crawl spaces, and can often handle small repair and installation jobs at no extra cost. Reach out today to schedule your free maintenance planning consultation.
