Did you know that an estimated 87 percent of homes in the United States of America have air conditioning? One of the most important parts of your home’s air conditioner is the AC air filters. These filters are designed to keep contaminants, bacteria, pet dander, and pollen out of your home’s air while still supplying you with that cool breeze on a sweltering summer day.
One issue that many homeowners run into is deciding how often should AC filters be changed in the home. The other issue is whether it not they can make it a DIY air filter replacement project. The good news is that you’ve come to the right place to learn all about how to change air filters on your own and how often to make those changes.
Keep reading this article to learn more today.
Step One: Remove Your Access Panel
The first step in the process of changing your AC air filters is removing the access panel that covers the air filters for AC. Start by turning your air conditioner off before you start removing the access panel. You also need to make sure that your air conditioner’s fan is off before removing the access panel.
The access panel is typically located near your air conditioner’s intake duct and it should be simple to remove. Start by sliding the access panel in an upwards direction in order to get it out of your way. Taking this action will allow you access to change air filters and check for any damage or maintenance needs of your AC system.
If you’re not sure how to get the access panel out of the way then you should go online and look up the process. You should be able to find it on Google or through a YouTube search that will take you through the process each step of the way.
You can also use the owner’s manual if you still have it on hand. It should provide you with instructions for removing the air filter when the time arrives. Check out the c3045 if you’re in need of AC air filters for your home’s AC system.
Step Two: Remove Your Old AC Air Filters
The second step of DIY air filter replacement is removing the old filter that is dirty and gross. The old air filter is likely held in place by a spring or another contraption that keeps it in place even when air is blowing through it. In order to remove it, you’ll need to unhook the air filter from these devices that keep it in one spot.
If you look at the inside of your AC unit’s air filter then you shouldn’t be surprised to see gray dust and a collection of debris. That is all of the stuff that your air filter has prevented from entering the air in your home. This is crucial if you live in a home with someone that suffers from severe allergies or asthma.
Do your best not to disturb this collection of gray dust as that could spread it through the home and get you and those around you sick. You also need to use this opportunity to check the size of the air filter so that you can get a proper AC air filter replacement for your home’s AC system.
You’ll get the best results when it comes to clean air by getting a replacement air filter that is the same size as your previous air filter. It shouldn’t be difficult to find a replacement air filter for your home’s AC system at your local hardware store. The other good news is that these air filters are quite affordable.
Most replacement air filters that you purchase for your home’s AC system will run you between $3 and $10 depending on the quality and the materials used. The more expensive ones will come with a higher MERV rating, which means that they’re better at keeping the air in your home clean.
Step Three: Install Your Replacement AC Air Filters
The last step in the process of your DIY air filter replacement is installing your replacement AC air filter into your home’s air conditioning system. The replacement air filter should have some markings that indicate the location of the support structure on one side or the other. The other side will have a large and exposed area that is there by design.
The area with extra support will keep your air filter in place when your air conditioner is pulling air through it in order to cool off your home. There is often a lot of pressure when you run your air conditioner, so the support in your AC air filters is vital for proper operation.
You need to make sure that you’re installing the AC air filters with the support side facing away from your AC’s air intake vent for the best results. From there, you’ll use the same technique that you used for removing the previous AC air filter to install the replacement air filter.
Make sure that the new air filter is secure and that it doesn’t move when you press on it. This is important because it will need to stand up to the pressure produced by your home’s air conditioning system. Once you’ve confirmed that it is secure you are good to slide the access panel back into place.
Set your temperature and start up your HVAC system or air conditioner and let your replacement AC air filter go to work. You’ll get clean air and cool temperatures to help you weather those hot summer months.
Start Replacing Your Own AC Air Filters Today
Replacing your own AC air filters is a convenient way to ensure that the air in your home is free of pollutants, pollen, and pet dander. DIY air filter replacement is wise if you live in a home with someone that suffers from asthma or allergies because changing air filters allows you to block these small particles. Now you’re prepared to change air filters for AC systems.
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