How to Replace the Filter in Your Home’s Air Conditioner

The lifespan of your HVAC unit will probably look amazing as advertised, especially when you install an entirely new system. However, you can’t expect to get the full lifespan if you are not putting in regular maintenance and correcting small issues before they get bigger.

One way to help extend the life of your air conditioning and heating system is to get consistent, professional deep cleaning services. If you live in Dallas, you can count on our professionals from Guardian to perform regular maintenance that improves your system’s expected life span. Tune-ups performed once or twice a year also let our HVAC technicians catch issues that may arise, allowing us to get ahead them before it’s too late and major damage is done.

Extending Your AC Unit’s Lifespan Yourself

While your routine maintenance plans handle all components of your AC system, there are ways you can help, too. All homeowners should know how to swap out their AC filter on their own, which is an easy way to improve the entire unit’s lifespan.

You’ll know that it is time to swap out your AC filter when the vent in front of the filter is visibly dirty. Another way to know when your filter is dirty is if you feel your system is not cooling as quickly as it normally should.

To replace the AC filter, you should follow these steps:

• Shut the AC system off completely before opening the return air intake, which should be sealed up behind doors that look like they belong on a small cabinet. Open the doors to locate the air filter.
• Use your smartphone to photograph the filter so you can easily recheck the key details of the filter later, like its size, position, and even its color. You’ll need to do this step for every air intake return throughout your home. You will need to purchase a filter for every return in your home. It’s always advised to replace all filters in your home at one time to ensure your breathing clean air. At Collin Creek, we sell top-quality air filters that help you guarantee only the highest quality air flows through your home.
• With your new air filter in hand, re-open the “cabinet” doors and remove the old, dirty filter. Snap or slide the new filter into place, with the arrows pointing towards the opening. Be sure the filter is securely in place and that it will not come loose due to the airflow. Close the door tightly and repeat this process for your other air intake locations.
• Switch the AC back on and let it run for about 30 minutes. After that time has passed, turn it off and check the filters to see if they remained securely in place. If not, adjust as needed and test again. If they are secure, then you’re done!
• For a bonus step, get a dusting cloth and clean the vents and doors themselves.

Would you like to know more about AC filter replacement? You can always call us at (972) 578-2244 to get help from certified industry professionals. You can also sign up for one of our popular maintenance plans, and we’ll take care of your filter change for you.