How to Change the Air Filter in a Furnace
Everybody should learn how to change an air filter in a furnace. The furnace air filter captures particles and dust in the air that would prematurely wear the heating coils and fan. Air filters also reduce the allergens in the indoor air we breathe. Change the furnace air filter every three months to keep the air quality up and reduce wear on your furnace. Many different types of air filters are available at your hardware store. Present the model number and brand of furnace when you speak with a sales associate about which filter is right for your furnace. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Turn the circuit breaker to the furnace off. The circuit breaker is located in your home's electrical panel. An emergency shutoff switch is also near the furnace. If you are unable to determine the correct circuit breaker, the emergency shutoff switch can be turned off.
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Locate the cold air duct where the fresh air enters your furnace. The filters are usually inside the cold air duct or behind the access panel of the blower chamber. Some furnaces will have air filters in both locations.
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Lift up on the access panel to the blower chamber, and place the panel out of the way. If your filter is located within the air duct, there will be two retaining tabs that need to be moved 90 degrees to open the slim access door.
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4
Pull out the old furnace filter, and place it in a trash bag.
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Use a vacuum cleaner to remove excess dust and dirt from around the area that houses the furnace air filter. This is a good time to vacuum the blower wheel area if your filter is not located there.
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Slide the new filter into place, making sure that it seats into position, and close the access panel to the air filter area.
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Turn the circuit breaker or the emergency shutoff switch back on to the furnace.
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Tips & Warnings
Although they can be more expensive, HEPA air filters are 99 percent efficient in removing almost all allergens that pass through your HVAC system and back out through the air ducts.
