Oldtimers like to talk about how easy it used to be to work on cars. I still like doing that, but there really isn’t much the do-it-yourselfer can do any longer. Modern vehicles are a marvel of high-tech electronics and computer control, but they are nearly impossible to work on without special tools and diagnostic equipment.
SO WHAT’S THE POINT?
One of the things I can still do is change the air filter. But even that has become more difficult as the modern automotive air filter is often wedged between the headlight assembly, the battery, and various hoses and wires almost certainly guaranteeing skinned knuckles by the time you’re done. That’s my long way of making this important point: It’s much easier to change the air filter on the HVAC system in your Glenwood Springs, Aspen, or Vail, CO home than it is to change the air filter on your car.
NOW WHERE IS THAT DARN THING?
Sometimes the most difficult thing is locating the HVAC air filter. It’s usually in a pull-out drawer of some sort and can be pretty well camouflaged. The first step is to locate the return duct on your furnace or air handler. The filter will be located somewhere before the air enters the unit. The whole idea is to assure good indoor air quality (IAQ) by filtering the air before it’s circulated through the home.
THERE IT IS, I FOUND IT
Once you’ve found the air filter the replacement is almost always very simple. Just make sure you do things in the right order:
- Go to the thermostat and turn the system off. If you remove the filter while the HVAC system is running, lots of dirt and grit can be blown into the fan and blower motor which is what you are trying to prevent.
- Pull out the drawer and remove the old filter taking note of the arrow indicating airflow direction. Inspect it carefully. If it appears unusually dirty, make a note to change the air filter more frequently in the future.
- Make sure the new filter is exactly the same size. Insert it into the holder, again taking note of the airflow direction. If you ever get confused, remember the air always flows from the return duct into the furnace or air handler.
- Slide the filter drawer closed and turn the HVAC system back on.
REGULAR FILTER CHANGES ARE VITAL
To assure the best possible IAQ and protect your expensive equipment, the air filter should be changed every 60 to 90 days. If you insist on using the very cheap fiberglass filters (not recommended by Climate Control) you should change it every 30 days.
MAINTENANCE IS MUCH MORE THAN FILTER CHANGES
Just because you change the air filter on your car doesn’t mean you don’t need the services of a trained mechanic. The same is true for your HVAC system. Depend on Climate Control Company for regular seasonal maintenance that goes far beyond just changing the filter. Be sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to learn more about the services we offer in Glenwood Springs, Aspen, and Vail, CO.
