As your local professional HVAC provider, we need to be clear. Most of the work that’s required for an HVAC system to be either repaired or maintained is going to have to come from a professional. Folks like the members of our team, with licenses and certifications, should be the only ones you trust to fix a broken air conditioner. However, there’s one small thing that we urge all homeowners to do themselves, because it’s an easy fix for an AC that might be struggling.
That’s replacing the air filter. A simple, yet effective method of improving your air conditioning in Hammond, LA. We’re not going to tell customers they have to call us for this service because it’s just not necessary. Unless you’re having trouble with replacing an air filter, or you’ve got questions, customers can often handle this job on their own.
So, take out your notebook and pen, and let’s get started!
Our Step By Step Guide
In order to properly change out an air filter, you need to know what you’re doing! Most air conditioners have a manual or a guide that can easily be scanned to find out the type and specifications of the replacement air filter, while other models have easily available guides online. Our guide is going to be pretty generic so it can fit any air conditioning system our customers might have.
To be honest, every system is going to be different. Be sure to take note of any oddities or irregularities with your HVAC system’s filter before replacing it, so you can ask us for help. We can even replace the filter when we perform seasonal maintenance!
Let’s start with the basics.
- Turn off the air conditioner. We want to remind our customers that doing any filter changes while the system is running can be a bad idea. Contaminants can leak in while you’re changing the filter, so you’re always better off turning the unit off while you’re doing this work.
- Locate the return air duct. The return air duct is an area of your ductwork that’s leading into the air conditioning system. Usually, it’s marked with arrows. One easy way to find the return air duct is by process of elimination since there are only two air ducts connected to the system–the input and the output. Once you narrow this down, the choice is clear!
- Remove the old air filter. Take out the air filter and note the direction it’s facing. You might want to cover your mouth or wear a mask during this process since some air filters can be pretty filthy!
- Change out the filter. If you’ve got a disposable air filter, simply throw it out and replace it with a new one. Or, if you’ve got a reusable filter, wipe it off with a damp cloth or paper towel so it’s clear.
- Put the filter back. Make sure the filter is facing the right direction when you place it back in its housing.
- Turn the HVAC system back on. Once you’re sure the process is complete, turn the system on and enjoy the difference!
Have any questions about your air filter? Professional Heating & Air can help. Contact us today! When you need it done right call Professional Heating & Air.