This simple, but necessary home task is often overlooked.

Posted on 15th May, 2015

AirFilterWeb250Pix.jpg

So we’ve been blogging consistently for a couple of years, now, and more often than not, our topics are of the list variety. We pick a relevant topic, create a list, and briefly expand on those bullet points in an effort to help make obtaining or maintaining your green home a little easier. Very rarely do we hit on the finer, more mundane tasks of home ownership, but today, that is exactly what we are going to do. The task at hand is one of those that is easily forgotten about, but is good for your home’s efficiency and good for your family’s health: changing the air filter. Before we go any further, “air filter” and “furnace filter” are the same thing. The terms seem to change depending on the season. Now… on to the task at hand, which is how to change it:

 

1) Check your HVAC system owner’s manual to determine the correct size filter for purchase (available at any of your local hardware stores). Alternatively, you can look on your existing air filter.

 

2) Turn off your HVAC unit or the corresponding breaker.

 

3) Remove the old filter and after writing the current date on the new filter, slide it into the old filter’s place. Arrows on the new filter will provide the proper orientation.

 

4) Dispose of your old air filter immediately. If you don’t have outdoor bins, seal it in a trash bag to help prevent allergens from lowering your indoor air quality.

 

5) Create a reminder that works for you to change your air filter on a regular basis. Monthly is a nice frequency, but this can vary due to your filter type and air quality.

 

As you can see, this task can be completed in a matter of minutes, but its effects last much, much longer. For a visual tool, this YouTube video is excellent, and if you still need further assistance, we recommend calling your trusted HVAC professional.