Under normal circumstances, your furnace should function smoothly and quietly. There should not be any squealing, rumbling, or banging sound while using your furnace. If your furnace feels noisy, it is best to call in a professional to do some furnace repair work. In most cases, it is better to hire a professional to deal with furnace repair jobs; however, there are some furnace repair jobs that you can do on your own. Cleaning and replacing the filter is one of those jobs.
Before going any further, it is important to understand that using a professional for furnace repair is the best thing to do. Trying to repair your furnace on your own could damage your unit and even result in serious problems like gas leaks. If you understand the risk of tackling furnace repair yourself, here is how to proceed to replace a filter.
- Start by turning off the furnace. You need to ensure that the thermostat is set to “Off”. Never try to repair anything with your furnace still turned on.
- Check the access panel for possible problems. Generally, the access panel is located toward the bottom of the unit – some furnaces may have it on the side of the unit. Once you have found it, simply loosen the screws to remove the clips. Gently, tilt the top and lift it up.
- After removing the panel, look for the blower fan and motor. There, you will find the old filter. Simply remove it and replace it with the new one. Pay special attention to the arrows on your filter to understand the flow of air.
- It is also a good idea to vacuum and clean the furnace floor and remove any possible durst, dirt, and grime. Do not forget to clean the floor vents. Now, put the access panel back and tighten the screws properly.
Replacing a filter would help keep your furnace’s flue in the best condition – the flue is responsible for venting gases like carbon monoxide. However, keep in mind that you will find different types and qualities of filters. Some filters are rather cheap, but they have a very limited lifespan. In most cases, a low-quality filter may not last longer than 30 days. You should at least be going for a middle-tier filter that usually lasts longer than 90 days. If you are willing to spend more money, opt for some high-end filters that are washable and serve you well indefinitely.
The fact of the matter is that you should not leave common furnace repair issues unattended or else things would become too big to be handled by yourself. If you are experiencing any efficiency problems with your furnace, chances are you have a bad filter. Simply replacing the filter would do a world of good to your furnace. Just ensure that you handle all furnace repair work with care. When not sure about anything you should simply let a professional do the job.