The most common cause of malfunctioning forced air heating and cooling systems is dirty air conditioning or furnace filters. In any central HVAC system, it is the air filtration system, heat pump, or furnace that cleans the air of dust and allergens before redistributing it to your rooms. Due to this reason, the filters become very important components in these systems. On the other hand, when dust and other types of debris clog the filters of HVAC systems, this significantly reduces their efficiency by restricting airflow. This, in turn, may eventually cost you an arm and a leg.
One strategy for keeping the cost of heating and cooling a home down involves having professionals, and furnace replacement experts who check your filters on a regular basis. Permanent filters should be serviced every six months, and when dust clogs them up, this should be done for disposable forced-air system filters. Filters are typically located on the ceiling or wall of the home’s return air registers, and/or they may be located in the furnace or air handling cabinet of the air conditioning unit.
What tools are needed to change the filter in the return air duct register of a room?
1. Stage one: getting ready
To move or take off the grill over the registers, release the locking mechanism. Be aware that on some registers, the grille may dislodge itself and drop off since the “hinge” part is intentionally designed to let loose. Take out the old filter and immediately discard it in a garbage bag or in the outside trash can.
2. Organization
Have your trustworthy furnace experts replace the filter, making sure the return air grille is free of dust beforehand. If you are not confident in replacing the filter, have your trusted furnace repair experts do it for you. They will also ensure that the return air grille is dust-free. Inside and outside, use a damp cloth to clean off the grille and registers. Again, be careful; on some models the hinge side of the grille may drop open!
3. Proper installation
Make sure the airflow arrows on the replacement filter point toward the ducts when you insert it in the register. Secure the grille back into position. In most instances, professionals who are furnace replacement specialists near me would recommend that you write the date on the filter frame so you know when to change it. (This is a wall return air register with the filter installed.)
Methods of replacing the air filter in an HVAC system or cabinet
- The air handler and furnace should be switched off. Sometimes you see on the door or panel, which conceals the blower, the word “Filter.” You can remove this door or panel by lifting it from its mounting screws or retaining hooks.
- Check the filter. There is a standard filter on either side of the fan motor. The filter runs on the rails. Take note if your filter is of the washable and replaceable type or if it’s the disposable type. You may find this information, along with any cleaning recommendations, on the edge of the filter. A common way to tell if the filter is disposable is to check for the size printed on the border of the frame.
- Take a new filter and insert it, taking care that the arrows on its side are pointing correctly to allow air to flow through it, away from the ducts. Now, snap in the new door onto the cabinet. Replacing any heating system is seldom an easy decision since it costs much and often requires professional installation services.
When is the best time to change your heating system?
Over the years, a heating appliance loses its efficiency. Even with regular maintenance, these appliances deteriorate. If your installation is more than 20 years old, it is most likely time to change it. Real advances have taken place in the heating sector.
New, more energy-efficient and eco-friendly appliances have emerged. They have the advantage of reducing your energy bills and using renewable energy. Remember to find out about new appliances and their prices. Don’t wait until your heating system becomes completely obsolete to change it.
Your heating is more than 20 years old
Over the years, a heating system loses its efficiency. Even with regular maintenance, these devices deteriorate. Real progress has been made in the heating sector. New devices that are less energy-intensive and more eco-responsible have emerged. Don’t wait until your system becomes completely obsolete to change it.
Your heating is having more and more difficulty heating efficiently
Is your heating having more and more difficulty turning on? Take the opportunity to ask for an assessment of your insulation, which may also be the cause. Indeed, if you feel that your heating system is not enough to heat your home, the insulation may be faulty. If this is the case, consider having your home renovated by starting heating and insulation work at the same time. By combining these two works, you will see the comfort of your home improve considerably.
Changing your heating system involves doing work in your home. This can sometimes take several days. This is why it is strongly advised not to change your heating system in the middle of winter, at the risk of finding yourself without heating when it is cold.
As you will understand, to change your heating, it is advisable to carry out this work in spring or summer, when the temperatures are pleasant, and you can do it without your heating system. Very often, when the good weather returns, many of you put this work aside.
Conclusion
When planning to change your heating system, hiring a qualified and reliable professional is essential to ensure the job is done right. Compare quotes from several companies to balance cost and quality, and research reputations for peace of mind. Regular maintenance is also key to prolonging your system’s lifespan and efficiency. For trusted services, Alpha Mechanical stands out as a reliable partner for sales, installation, and repairs. Their team of experts can provide personalized solutions and professional assessments tailored to your needs. Start your journey with informed decisions and ensure your home stays warm and comfortable year-round.