Keep Your HVAC System Working like New With Proper Air Filter Maintenance

You rely on your HVAC system to get your family through the highs and lows of seasonal temperatures. But out of sight, out of mind, the regular air filter maintenance your system relies on for smooth operation and to keep you comfortable often goes neglected… Until there’s a problem.

Forgotten Filter Maintenance is a Top Reason for Poor Performance & Emergency Service

Home air filters require regular replacement to keep your system running at peak performance. If you can’t remember the last time you replaced your filter, don’t put it off any longer. What’s the big deal? Your filter is meant to remove debris from the air before it enters your system. But when the accumulation of dust, dirt, pollen, hair, and other debris buildup, it forces your system to work harder to move air. This in turn uses more energy, resulting in a higher electric bill and unnecessary wear-and-tear on your unit that can shorten its lifespan.

Regular Air Filter Changes Protect Indoor Air Quality

Plagued by allergies and wondering how to improve indoor air quality? Regularly changing the air filter on your HVAC system can improve the air quality in your home. While a clean air filter can trap dust mites, dander, pollen, and other allergens, all those pollutants slip through the cracks of a clogged filter. Severe allergies? You may see improved allergy relief with a HEPA air filter upgrade. These do a better job of trapping smaller allergen particles and can remove mold spores from the air as well. Concerned you may have other underlying issues? Learn more about our indoor air quality services.

How to Change Your Air Filter

To improve the indoor air quality in your home and protect the fan and motor of your HVAC system from the excess strain a dirty air filter can cause, follow these tips and tricks for air filter maintenance:

• Find your filter.
  It will typically be at return duct near the equipment fan coil or furnace, behind/under a grille, inside the equipment. After locating it you simply pull-out to access.
• Change your filter regularly.
  Every three months, at a minimum. Kids or pets? You may need to replace monthly (or sooner). Mark the replacement date on the filter as a reminder.
• Ensure the right fit.
  Write down the recommended filter size and style in your HVAC service manual, carrying it with you to make shopping easier. Don’t wing-it. The wrong size reduces effectiveness, allowing dirt and allergens to contaminate your system, ductwork, and home.
• Follow the arrows.
  The arrow marking on the filter indicate the direction to install the filter. (The wrong way effects airflow.)
• Keep extras on-hand.
  Storing them nearby for fast, convenient swaps.
• Don’t upgrade your filter without the help of a pro.
  The tight weave of HEPA-style filters could cause system damage if the right system adjustments are not made before putting this more advanced filtration in place.
• Don’t skip the air conditioning tune-up.
  Like your air filter, HVAC system components need regular cleaning too. But this is not a DIY job. Learn more about the benefits of air conditioning service and maintenance from H & H.

Breathe easier with the help of H & H Heating & Air Conditioning today.