If you have a home with a forced air, HVAC system, air filters an important component in keeping your air clean. Air filters reduce the amount of contaminating debris in your home. When a filter is not well maintained, it can become clogged and push dirt into your home. Family members with asthma or allergies will have difficulty breathing. To help you prevent these problems, B&L Ott in Berks County has created this brief guide to air filters.
How do they Work?
When your HVAC system is turned on, the air circulated throughout your home and cleaned by an air filter. The air filter is made of woven cotton and synthetic blend materials. The filter allows air to pass through while stopping any larger particles. Dust, dirt, pet dander, and bacteria get caught in the woven fibers. Through this process, contaminating particles are taken out of the air.
Where is it Located?
To be able to clean or replace your air filter, you first need to figure out where to find it. The filter is usually located somewhere near your furnace. If you have your manual, it should tell you where the filter can be found. It may be inside the blower area of your unit or in the ceiling return air grille. Filters are easily recognizable and look like a screen. If you are having difficulty finding your filter, you can contact B&L Ott in Leesport for help. We can ask you some simple questions about your system and try to guide you to the location of your filter.
How Often Should I Clean It?
Some forced air, HVAC systems have replaceable filters while others have to be cleaned. You should consult your owner’s manual to find out how often it needs cleaning. You should inspect and clean your filters at least once per month. Doing so keeps your HVAC system healthy so that it runs efficiently.
If you do not clean your air filters often enough, dirt will get into your system and cause problems. These problems may lead to costly repairs in the future. Dirty filters will also make your blower work harder to push the air past the clogged filter. This will increase your energy bills. Frequent cleaning is an effective way to maintain your system and save money in the long run.
How Often Should I Replace It?
Deciding how often to change your filter, can depend on several factors. The type of filter, the rate your home gets dirty, and air pollution should all be taken into account. Unless your manual says otherwise, you should inspect your filters 1-2 times per month. When they get too dirty, you should clean or replace them. If you have a system that uses replaceable filters, you can replace them every time they get dirty. On the other hand, if you have a system that uses cleanable filters, you can clean them until they become too worn.
It is a good idea to keep a stock of fresh filters on hand so that you can easily replace them whenever you need. Filters can be purchased in the home maintenance section of department stores. If you need help replacing your filter, schedule an appointment with B&L Ott.
More Questions?
If you have any more questions, one of B&L Ott’s technicians would be happy to assist you. We can also help you choose and install a new system. Selecting a new system can seem confusing when there are many different types, sizes, and qualities to choose from. B&L Otts technicians have the knowledge to help you choose which make is best for your home and family. You can contact us at the following link: https://otthvac.com/contact-us/.