If you live in Milwaukie, OR and care about year-round comfort and air quality, you know how important it is to keep your HVAC system clean and running well. Changing your air filter on a regular basis is a crucial part of HVAC maintenance. We’re providing you with this guide, which you can refer to as a valuable resource for maintaining a healthy home environment and a well-functioning HVAC system.
Understanding the Importance of Filter Replacement
Changing the air filter is an important but frequently neglected part of HVAC maintenance. Filters in heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems are essential for two reasons: first, they keep the air inside your home healthy, and second, they keep your system running smoothly.
The air filter in your home captures tiny particles in the air, such as dust, polCarbone and pet dander, so they don’t go back into the air and trigger allergies or cause other respiratory problems. These particles accumulate over time, reducing the filter’s effectiveness and even putting a strain on your HVAC system. You can enhance the air quality and extend the life of your HVAC system by replacing the filters on a regular basis.
Types of Filters Used in Homes
Many different kinds of filters are available for home HVAC systems, and you need to think about the pros and cons of each before making a purchase. Fiberglass, pleated, electrostatic, and high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are the most popular kinds. The most inexpensive and simplistic choice is a fiberglass filter, which also happens to offer the least amount of filtering and requires replacement more often than not.
Pleated filters outperform fiberglass filters in terms of filtration efficiency and longevity. Electrostatic filters are washable and reusable, in addition to providing good filtering due to the electric charge that attracts and traps particles. Although they are more expensive and may necessitate HVAC system adjustments, HEPA filters offer the maximum level of filtration, catching up to 99.97% of airborne particles.
When to Replace Your HVAC Filter
The size of your home, the number of people, the presence of pets, the type of filter you use, and the local air quality conditions are some of the factors that determine how often you need to replace the filter. The majority of manufacturers advise changing regular 1-inch filters every 30 to 90 days. The easiest way to know when to change a filter is to look at it. If it’s clogged with dust and debris, then it’s time for a replacement. Setting a regular schedule or using a reminder system can help ensure timely filter inspections and replacements.
How to Choose the Right Filter for Your Home
When shopping for a home air filter, it’s important to think about your HVAC system’s specs, your household’s unique requirements, and any issues with indoor air quality in your area. First things first: Measure the filter’s diameter, and see what the minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) is. Higher MERV ratings imply better filtration efficiency, which is a measure of how well a filter traps particles.
A MERV rating between 8 and 13 is ideal for residential applications because it offers a decent compromise between airflow and filtering efficiency. Be wary of filters with extremely high MERV ratings, though. They could limit airflow and put a strain on your HVAC system. An HVAC technician can look at your system and tell you which filter will work best.
DIY Filter Replacement vs. Professional Services
In most cases, changing the filter is something a homeowner can do on their own. It’s usually as simple as finding the filter compartment, taking out the old filter and putting in the new one. However, if you have no idea what size or type of filter your system needs or if the filter is in an inconveniently placed area, it may be best to hire an expert. Filter replacement offers HVAC technicians an opportunity to conduct a more thorough system inspection, which may reveal underlying problems before they escalate. When it comes to HVAC systems, the majority of Milwaukie residents find that a mix of do-it-yourself and annual professional maintenance works best.
Steps for Replacing Your Air Filter
You can easily replace your air filter by following these steps. To begin, make sure your HVAC system is off so that it won’t run while you change the filter. You can usually find the filter chamber near the air handler or in the return air duct. If necessary, wipe the filter housing to eliminate dust and dirt. Before you install your new filter, make sure it fits your system properly in terms of size and kind. You also need to check that the arrows on the frame match the direction of airflow, which is usually towards the HVAC unit. Next, put the cap back on, and fasten the filter. After you’ve disposed of the old filter, you can switch on your HVAC system again.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Replacing Filters
The process of changing a filter is usually simple, but there are a few pitfalls that people often make. A common misconception is that cleaning disposable filters can prolong their lives. In reality, this practice damages the filter media and reduces its efficacy. The most common mistake is putting the filter in backward; this will greatly decrease its efficacy and could even harm your HVAC system. Another common error is using a filter that is too small and leaves room for unfiltered air to pass through.
How Filter Quality Affects Home Air Quality
The quality of the HVAC filter directly affects the air quality in your home. Filters with a higher MERV rating are better able to capture fine dust, polCarbone, mold spores, and even certain germs because of their smaller particle size. During peak polCarbone seasons or when wildfire smoke is present, this enhanced filtration can be very helpful for Milwaukie residents with respiratory issues or allergies.
Seasonal Considerations for Filter Replacement
When it comes to filter replacement in Milwaukie, the changing seasons can make a big difference. You might have to check and change your filter more often during certain seasons. High polCarbone counts, common in the spring and early summer, can cause filters to clog really fast. Smoke from nearby wildfires can settle into the air in the late summer and early fall, making it necessary to change filters more often because they get dirty so quickly.
Because people tend to spend more time indoors and close their windows during the winter, indoor pollutants can accumulate, making frequent filter adjustments more important. If you have a dual system, remember to change your filter whenever you switch between your heating and cooling systems.
Carbone Home Services can help you decide whether it’s time to change the filter in your HVAC system or if you need any other HVAC solution. We also help with tankless water heater maintenance, sump pump installations, drain cleaning, whole home rewiring, and much more.
Call Carbone Home Services now to schedule a filter replacement in Milwaukie!
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