We always recommend that you have your HVAC unit regularly serviced in order to maximize its lifespan, ensure your running costs are as low as possible, and to avoid emergencies were it to pack up in the middle of sub-zero temperatures or a heatwave. However, while servicing your HVAC unit should only ever be carried out by a qualified HVAC engineer, there is one vitally important task that you can perform that will also ensure your HVAC system is operating at its optimum, and that is replacing the air filter.

The purpose of the air filter is to stop any debris entering into the system, usually in the form of dust and fibers. Aside from not wanting to recirculate dust throughout your home, the air filter also reduces the level of debris that enters into your ducting that can be responsible for causing blockages. Unfortunately, if you do not replace or clean your HVAC air filter regularly, this will have the same effect on your whole system as a blocked air duct.

The filter should be located at that point where the air to be ‘conditioned’ enters into the HVAC system, and ideally you should have an operator’s manual that will help you to locate the filter if you are a new occupant and are not sure where it is.

Once you have located the filter, check the manual to see if the filter is one that should be replaced, or simply cleaned, as this will than guide you as to what to do once you have removed the dirty filter. If you do not have a manual, you should be able to download one from the internet if you know the make and model number.

If, when you try to remove the filter, it does not release easily, do not force it and instead give us a call here at A&E Air Conditioning and Heating and we will come out and fix the problem. If you try to force the filter, there is every possibility you could damage the whole fitting and any new or clean filter will then not fit back as well as it should.

Whether the filter requires replacing or it is a filter that just requires cleaning, once you have removed it, mark the frame on the side facing into the room with an F (for front) using a pen. When it then comes time to fitting a replacement filter, or refitting the existing one, you will know which way round the filter should be!

If you have to replace the filter, make sure that you use the correct, same size of filter you are removing. If not, you could damage the filter frame or end up with a leak that would allow dirty air to enter your ducting.

If the filter just require cleaning before putting it back in place, take it outside and follow the instructions in the manual to clean it as best you can.

If you are still a little wary about doing such a task yourself, give us a call here at A&E Air Conditioning and Heating and we’ll be happy to come out and run through the process of changing your air filter so that you will be able to do it with total confidence yourself the next time.