Pilchuck Heating
Posted on March 7, 2022

How to Change Your Home Air Filter

As homeowners jump into spring cleaning, it is important to remember the benefits of changing your home air filter.

This relatively inexpensive step in maintenance can improve indoor air quality, reduce allergies, and enhance the air flow throughout the home.

How to change your home air filterHow to Change Your Home Air Filter

One of the most important steps in changing your home air filter is finding the correct size filter. It is important to look at your furnace manufacturer’s instructions to get this information or you can look up your furnace brand and model online to see which filter is recommended.

When you know the correct size, you can order an annual supply to keep on hand. Usually, manufacturers recommend changing your furnace filter every 3-6 months. However, before ordering replacements, wait to see if your furnace filter may be reusable.

First, turn off the heat and air on the thermostat. Most of the time, this means you push the system button until it reads “off”.

Next, remove the existing air filter which is inside the furnace or inside the return air vent. There will be an arrow indicating the direction of the air flow. This is important to locate so the furnace filter is not installed backward. Installing the air filter backward can block the air flow instead of filtering it.

Check to see if the existing air filter is reusable. If the filter has a plastic frame, it is reusable. To clean a reusable air filter, take the filter outdoors and clean it with a vacuum or some soapy water. Bringing it inside, even if done carefully, can release many of the allergens back into the home. After a reusable filter is washed and rinsed, it should dry completely before being reinstalled.

Once you have the previous air filter out, you can compare the size and ensure the new air filter fits properly. Look for the arrows that indicate which way the filter slides into place.

Last, slide the air filter into place then close the furnace door securely.

Finally, turn your heat and air back on with the thermostat. 

You can dispose of your old filter by tying it up in a plastic bag so it doesn’t disperse dirt and debris in and around the garbage can.

Some furnaces will not power back on if the door is left ajar. It is important to make sure the door is closed completely.

For more information on size, type or style of air filter you need for your home, please contact us at Pilchuck Heating.

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