Replacing your HVAC filter is an important part of HVAC maintenance to keep your system running as efficiently and safely as possible. Plus, regular maintenance extends the life of your system to protect your investment.
One of the tasks with HVAC maintenance is changing your air filter, which you can do on your own easily. Choosing an air filter can be overwhelming, but it’s best not to guess. You just need to do a little work to get your filter size and eliminate the stress and hassle. You can change it yourself or hire a pro to do it for you.
Why Does the Air Filter Size Matter?
Getting the right air filter is important for the health and function of your HVAC system. If your air filter is too big, you can’t cut it to fit into your HVAC system. This creates gaps that let contaminants into your home and allows air to escape, defeating the purpose of having a filter at all.
Likewise, an air filter that’s too small for the slot will leave air gaps that bring contaminants in and let air out. This will also negatively impact your air quality and energy efficiency. Neither one of these options is a good choice for your health or your home, so make sure you get the right air filter size.
Look at Your Existing Air Filter
Checking your old filter is the easiest and fastest way to determine the size for your new air filter. Most filters have a size on the side with the length, width, and depth measured in inches.
Measure It Yourself
If your air filter doesn’t have measurements or they’re worn off, you can measure the filter itself. All you need is a measuring tape to measure the length, width, and depth, paying attention to orientation.
Measure Air Register or Air Filter Slot
If you have a missing air filter or otherwise can’t measure it, you can measure the slot it goes into to get the size. This will help you know the right size for your new air filter.
The air filter slot is the size of the actual filter measurements, not the size you’ll find listed on the new air filter package. You may have odd measurements like 15.5, 29.75, or 0.75 inches. Make sure you round up to find the filter size.
Where Is the Air Filter Located?
Your HVAC system will usually have an air filter that’s located on the return air intake of the furnace. Find the spot where the return duct comes into the furnace, and there should be a plate covering the air filter slot.
Some HVAC systems don’t have air filters located in the air handling unit. Instead, the air filter will be near the return vent inside your home. Changing the filter is a simple process in this case, as long as you can access the vent to change it. If you’re not comfortable, contact an HVAC professional.
Know Your Air Filter’s MERV Rating
Along with the size, you will need to determine the appropriate MERV rating for the air filter before you can replace it. The MERV rating determines how effective the air filter is at removing particles from the air, and the higher the rating, the better it is at this job.
Most homes will do well with a MERV rating of 5 to 8 for the filter. This range offers good filtration for healthy people and removes pollen, dust, and mold effectively. The system will still run efficiently as long as you replace the filters at the right time frames.
Do you need to change your HVAC air filter or other HVAC repairs or replacement? Contact Sierra Plumbing to schedule an appointment!
