How To Put In An Air Filter

If you’re a homeowner and need to learn how to install an air filter in a house, then follow along below in this blog. Here are the highlights, which we’ll dive into down below for more details:

Key Steps to Replacing Air Filters

Step 1: Turn off the blower and/or the HVAC unit
Step 2: Remove the new filter from its packaging
Step 3: Unhook the air vent cover and remove filter
Step 4: Wipe the vent cover slats clean
Step 5: Insert new filter per the directions
Step 6: Re-hook the air vent cover back
Step 7: Switch the HVAC unit back on

Air filters play a key role in making sure you can breathe good air, comfortably, throughout your home. These essential components are integrated into home heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems to effectively trap and remove dust, pollen and other airborne substances.

Over time, air filters may become blocked as their creases become blocked with all the debris that gets swept up into the HVAC system. That’s when it’s time to replace the old, dirty filters with new, high quality air filters.

Let's learn more about how to insert air filter.

Install air filters in a house

Installing a new air filter in your house is an easy do-it-yourself project that only takes a few minutes. Many homeowners do it as a natural course of house work. Before you start it’s important to know the size and type of air filters that you need for your home. Every home is different, and it’s necessary to know the exact dimensions of the air filter needed.

On our website, we show the various sizes of air filters. Filter King offers 0.5-inch air filters, 1-inch air filters, 2-inch air filters, 4-inch air filters, whole house filters and even custom air filters.

Know which size you need before starting the process on how to put in an air filter.

Step 1: Turn off the blower and/or HVAC unit

The first step is to turn off the air blower in the home, or simply shut off the HVAC system. Some people simply raise or lower the HVAC system thermostat to stop the blower. You can then change your air filter when the blower stops. Other people prefer to shut off the whole unit.

Whichever way you choose, just make sure that the system will not click on again when you are in the middle of installing or replacing the air filter.

Step 2: Remove the new filter from its packaging

When you have the new filter nearby, remove it from its packaging, and keep nearby to grab when ready to put into the air vent.

Step 3: Unhook the air vent cover and remove filter

In many homes, the air vent latch which holds the filter is within arm’s reach. However, a ladder might be required if your air duct is positioned higher in the house, and you can’t reach it on your own.

Carefully unhook the clips holding the old air filter in. For some homes, you’ll need a screwdriver to remove screws holding the air filter in place. Take down the used air filter carefully, and place it into a large bag to contain the dirt and debris on the filter and protect your home from the collected allergens.

Step 4: Wipe the vent cover slats clean

You’ll likely see accumulated dust and debris on the slats of the air vent latch. It’s important to clean these slats before putting in the new filter. Some people use a hand vacuum to suck up the dirt and debris from the slats. Others use a damp rag to wipe away the gunk. In any case, be careful not to spread the dirt around.

Step 5: Insert new filter per the directions

When you’re ready to insert the new air filter, double check the size printed on the old filter's edge to ensure a match with the new air filter. Place the air filter with the directional arrows pointing in the correct airflow direction. Make sure it fits snugly in the slot.

Step 6: Re-hook the air vent cover back

Next, move the clips back to hold in the air filter, or re-insert the screws to hold it in. Then re-hook the air screen cover and make sure it’s fully closed.

Step 7: Switch the HVAC unit back on

Finally, after you’re confident that the replacement air filter is secure in its position, you can switch on the blower or the HVAC system to begin filtering and circulating clean, fresh indoor air.

In some homes, you may hear a noticeably quieter hum from the AC unit, compared to a louder sound with a dirty filter. This is because the system had to work harder with the dirty filter.

And that's it! That's how to insert air filter. Following these steps, you’ll learn how to install air filter in house! One last reminder - make sure to note the date of the replacement air filter, so you can put in another new air filter 4-8 weeks later, depending on usage. Performing regular air filter installation helps capture pollutants and improves air quality throughout your home.

Use Filter King Air Filter Replacements

Filter King offers air filter replacements in multiple sizes to fit your HVAC system. But our Filter King air filters aren't your typical 30-day fiberglass filters. Our air filters typically last 3 to 5 months before needing replacement. Many factors influence air filter lifespan, including outdoor air quality, pets in the home, and HVAC maintenance.

Over time, your Filter King air filters will become clogged with trapped airborne particles, pet hair, smoke and other pollutants in the home. And a dirty air filter will reduce airflow and efficiency for the circulating air. This causes your HVAC system to work harder, and that can cause higher energy bills, something you probably don’t need these days!

Plus, keeping a regular schedule of replacing home air filters will prevent expensive HVAC repairs down the road. If you notice any of the following in your home, then it’s likely time to install a new Filter King air filter more often.

Increased household dust buildup
Less cool air
More dust around vents
Dirty filter surface
Higher energy bills
Burning smell from your HVAC

Our filters keep your system running efficiently for months between replacements. We even make it easier for you with our air filter subscription service. That’s right, just put in your order for a monthly set of filters, and we’ll do the rest! We’ll deliver the right Filter King air filters to your door.

Contact us today to stop worrying about getting air filter replacements. We’ll get you on a schedule tailored for your home's needs.

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