Ductwork transports heated or cooled air from your HVAC unit to every living space in your home. To be efficient, it must be installed properly. There are many considerations for duct replacement that, if not addressed, can lead to poor AC or furnace performance and increased energy consumption. Improper installation can also reduce indoor air quality. Below, we’ll look at best practices for ductwork replacement to avoid these issues.

Use Industry-Approved Materials

In some older homes, cavities in walls, ceilings, and floors double as airways. These are not efficient carriers of conditioned air. Air ducts must be used and can be made of sheet metal, such as galvanized steel, which is strong and durable but tough to insulate. Fiberglass is pre-insulated and easy to cut and seal but is prone to wear. Flexible non-metallic materials (plastic, fiberglass, or PVC) are common and are convenient to install in corners and other tight spaces. However, they’re prone to tearing.

An HVAC technician can help decide on the best material based on the application, your home’s layout, and its heating/cooling needs.

Consider Location and Placement

Ductwork design should never be taken for granted. When in the design phase, the following factors must be addressed:

• Duct Length: Choose the shortest possible path so ducts don’t run too far to a specific area; otherwise, your home can have hot and cold spots.
• Exposure: Exposed ducts can cause extreme temperatures to affect conditioned air and strain your HVAC system. Make sure they’re placed behind walls, above ceilings, and under floors.
• Conditioned Spaces: Whenever possible, install ducts under raised floors or in a protected space known as a chase within a home’s thermal and air barrier.

Insulate Your Air Ducts

Some ductwork may run through an unconditioned basement, garage, or attic. Consult with your HVAC contractor about the best type of insulation to use. Insulating materials can be wrapped around ducts to minimize energy loss. Otherwise, heat can escape from the ducts, making your HVAC system inefficient and reducing comfort throughout your home.

Consider the Proper Duct Size

Air ducts should be the right size for your home and your HVAC system. If they’re too small, the system won’t have enough airflow to function properly. Ducts that are too big will reduce air velocity, affecting the distribution of conditioned air. 

To avoid such issues, a contractor will follow best practices such as calculating each room's required heating or cooling load and matching the proper duct size. To do this, they often use software that follows the Air Conditioning Contractors of America’s Manual D guidelines.

Perform Proper Duct Sealing

An HVAC installer uses various methods to seal air ducts to prevent energy loss and indoor air quality problems. Ductwork is typically attached in sections. The installation process then entails taking steps to minimize air leakage, such as:

• Connecting duct sections with screws and other fasteners.
• Sealing joints and seams with mastic or fiberglass mesh. 
• Using longer segments to reduce the number of pieces and connections needed. 
• Performing an air leakage test to ensure the system is airtight.

Make Sure the Airflow Is Balanced

An even distribution of conditioned air is dependent on having balanced airflow. Air balancing requires the supply and return ducts to have the same capacity, which yields neutral air pressure. It also requires having the appropriate number of supply and return registers throughout your home. This is why you need a professional who is experienced in ductwork design. 

Proper air balancing can:

• Maintain an optimal comfort level
• Improve your HVAC system’s energy efficiency
• Increase the lifespan of AC and heating equipment
• Prevent mold and other indoor air quality issues
• Avoid high energy bills and repair costs

Do I Need to Hire a Professional for Duct Replacement?

The ductwork in your home is complex. A trained, licensed professional can take every factor into account and perform the right calculations to ensure your duct system is properly sized and designed. Their insurance protects you from additional expenses and you also benefit from a commitment to customer satisfaction. Technicians have the proper knowledge, training, and tools to replace air ducts successfully while anticipating any issues along the way. They also test your HVAC system to ensure it works safely, reliably, and efficiently.

Contact TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing

We provide high-quality duct replacement, duct cleaning, and duct sealing services in and around The Greater San Francisco Bay Area, CA. Our qualified contractors meet the latest training and certification requirements, so every detail is covered when installing or servicing your ductwork. They also use the most advanced tools and technologies to ensure each project is successful. To get started, book an appointment online or call (415) 223-5096 today.

Air conditioning repairs in Northern California can be expensive, but you can avoid a costly AC repair by being proactive with at-home and professional maintenance. Like any machine, an air conditioner has parts that wear out. However, equipment malfunctions and breakdowns are not inevitable. You can avoid calling for AC repair near you, and potentially save hundreds or even thousands of dollars (leaving more money in your budget), by following these tips:

• Don’t Forget Routine Maintenance
• Change the Air Filter as Recommended
• Avoid Overusing Your Air Conditioner
• Clean Around the Outdoor Unit
• Look For Dirt Inside the Unit
• Check the Thermostat Regularly
• Keep the Vents Open
• Inspect the Condensate Drain for Blockages

1. Don’t Forget Routine Maintenance

Your air conditioner should be tuned up at least once a year. Annual maintenance is the most effective way to avoid costly AC repairs. The system should be inspected, cleaned, and, if necessary, repaired before the cooling season starts. During maintenance, a technician should:

• Clean the evaporator and condenser coils
• Check refrigerant levels
• Lubricate moving parts
• Tighten electrical connections
• Address any electrical issues
• Look for and seal any duct leaks
• Check the thermostat and system controls
• Clear the condensate drain (if necessary)

2. Change the Air Filter as Recommended

A dirty or clogged air filter can reduce or block airflow. The air conditioner’s manufacturer will recommend the best interval for changing the filter. In general, an AC filter should be changed every one to three months, depending on the system and your home’s indoor air quality. Neglecting to replace the filter can reduce cooling performance, force the system to work harder, and lead to higher energy bills. Low airflow can also cause strain that damages the unit, requiring costly repairs.

3. Avoid Overusing Your Air Conditioner

The more you use your AC, the more wear and tear it will experience. Using an air conditioner less may not seem like an option during a hot summer. However, raising the thermostat by a few degrees not only saves energy but can also reduce the unit's demand. 

How can you do this without sacrificing comfort? Running a ceiling fan can make the temperature feel 3℉ or 4℉ cooler, offsetting a slight increase in the thermostat setting. Also, turn the AC off when you go to work, leave for a vacation, or are otherwise away from home.

4. Clean Around the Outdoor Unit

Debris can restrict airflow and potentially contaminate the system, especially if it builds up around the outdoor unit. Regularly check for leaves, branches, grass, dirt, and other items around the condenser unit. Also, trim foliage back. There should be at least two feet of clearance on all sides.

When cleaning the unit, make sure it is shaded. Direct sunlight can strain the system and overheat the compressor. Additionally, make sure there’s a barrier that prevents small animals from getting into the unit.

5. Look For Dirt Inside the Unit

Your AC’s coils and fins are prone to getting dirty. If they become coated, this can interfere with heat transfer and may also damage the coils, especially if they freeze. Combined with restricted airflow, dirt can cause the system to work harder and less efficiently. The unit can even overheat and break down. 

If you have some experience, you can turn off the system, open the unit, and vacuum out excess dirt. The coils and fins can be cleaned with a soft brush. But this may require removing the fan and other components. Call a professional if you notice the unit is dirty and you haven’t cleaned it before.

6. Check the Thermostat Regularly

The thermostat is a small part of your HVAC system but can malfunction and cause numerous issues. A faulty thermostat can cause your AC to run constantly or short cycle. Avoiding these issues can prevent wear and tear that can damage your air conditioner. 

Look for changes in accuracy to determine if your thermostat needs to be checked by a professional. This can indicate an issue with placement or a low battery. A wiring problem can also affect how the thermostat works and trigger an electric shock or a fire.

7. Keep the Vents Open

Don’t close vents in unused rooms. People often do this thinking they can save energy. However, closed vents can disrupt airflow and create pressure variances that can damage your AC system. Also, make a visual note of where the vents are and avoid blocking them with storage units, furniture, or drapes.

8. Inspect the Condensate Drain for Blockages

The condensate drain is another important part of your AC system. An air conditioner collects moisture from the air, which is removed via the condensate drain. If this drain gets clogged, mold and algae can grow inside it. Water damage can occur if the drain overflows. Since unclogging the line can be a tricky process, it’s best to hire a professional for AC repair. 

Call TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing for AC Repair Near The Greater San Francisco Bay Area

Properly maintaining your air conditioner can avoid major repairs. Call a professional as soon as you notice any signs of trouble, such as reduced cooling performance, strange noises, weak airflow, foul odors, or higher energy bills. Our licensed technicians can diagnose and fix any problem. They’re also familiar with every type of air conditioner and AC component. If you’re dealing with any cooling issues, schedule an AC repair by calling (415) 223-5096 today.

If you live in San Francisco, CA, or elsewhere in the Bay Area, you may wonder which type of AC system is best for your home. One popular choice for many homeowners is a ductless mini-split AC. Like any other home comfort system, there are several important factors to consider before making the switch. The experts at TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing have compiled some helpful ductless mini-split pros and cons to help you determine if this system is the right choice for you.

What Is a Ductless Mini-Split System?

A ductless mini-split system is just as the name implies: a ductless HVAC system that does not require any ductwork to operate. How does a ductless mini-split work? These home comfort systems include an outdoor unit (a condenser/compressor) and at least one indoor unit connected to refrigerant lines, usually run through a small hole in an exterior wall. This type of system is renowned for its exceptional energy efficiency and the ability to provide zoned cooling, offering greater control over temperature and energy usage in your home, making it one of the most energy-efficient air conditioning options available.

The Top Benefits of Mini-Split ACs

Here are some of the top mini-split AC benefits to consider:

• Excellent energy efficiency: Because mini-splits don’t use ductwork, they’re much more energy efficient and deliver treated air directly to individual rooms in your home, leading to significant energy savings.
• Zoned temperature control: Another of the many advantages of ductless mini-split systems is that they allow for individual temperature control in different rooms or zones, so you only need to heat or cool specific areas as needed.
• Quiet operation: These systems are well-known for having quiet operation that’s much less noisy than today’s traditional HVAC systems.
• Easy to install: A ductless mini-split installation is significantly easier than a traditional installation, as it requires no ductwork.
• Space-saving: Mini-split systems are compact and small, freeing up space and providing an effective home comfort system without occupying a lot of room.

Potential Drawbacks of Going Ductless

As you ponder whether a ductless AC is worth it, it’s important to consider the potential drawbacks of choosing this system for your home.

• Higher upfront costs: Mini-splits tend to be more expensive upfront to install than traditional HVAC systems, especially when multiple indoor units are chosen.
• Aesthetic concerns: Although they are small and compact, mini-splits are typically mounted on the wall or ceiling, which may not be a desirable feature for all customers to have inside their homes.
• Performance limits: A mini-split system works effectively in both warm and cold climates, but it may experience some performance limitations in areas with extreme temperature fluctuations.
• Maintenance needs: Routine ductless mini-split maintenance requires regular air filter changes for every indoor unit, and drainage issues may lead to serious water damage if not caught promptly.

Mini-Split vs. Central Air: Key Differences

Here are some of the key differences between a mini-split vs. central air:

• Central air provides whole-home cooling, while a mini-split system only treats the air in specific rooms where the indoor units are installed.
• Installing central air typically costs less money upfront, unless extensive ductwork repairs or new duct installations are required.
• Having a mini-split system reduces airflow issues and air loss, as a significant amount of air is lost through cracks, gaps, and improperly installed ductwork in traditional central air systems.

Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Choose a Ductless System

Before deciding if this is the right type of system for you, consider who should and shouldn’t choose a ductless system.

Who Should Choose Ductless

• People who live in smaller homes that don’t have a lot of square footage
• Those in older homes where installing new ductwork is required for traditional central air
• Homeowners who are concerned about energy efficiency and energy costs
• Anyone who prefers a quiet system that offers zoned heating and cooling control

Who Shouldn’t Choose Ductless

• People living in larger homes that require more consistent, whole-home cooling and heating
• Those who live in areas with extreme temperatures, and therefore need a more powerful system
• Homeowners who don’t like the idea of visible units in different rooms
• People who live in homes with existing ductwork and want to pay a lower upfront cost

Common Misconceptions About Ductless HVAC

There are a few common misconceptions about ductless HVAC systems. Some think they’re only suitable for small homes, but mini-splits work well if you use certain rooms more often and don’t mind visible units. Others believe they’re noisy or expensive to maintain, but they’re quieter than traditional systems and have fewer moving parts, leading to less frequent and less costly repairs.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings Over Time

The best ductless AC units should be appropriately sized for your home, have a high SEER rating, and be manufactured by a reliable brand. Installing a ductless mini-split system helps you save on energy and other home comfort costs over time.

• No duct losses: Ductless systems prevent energy loss caused by leaky ductwork in traditional HVAC setups.
• Zoned control: Cool or heat specific rooms as needed to reduce energy use.
• High efficiency: Mini-splits offer high SEER ratings for better energy performance.
• Lower long-term costs: Higher upfront costs are offset by monthly energy savings.

Talk to TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing for a Professional Recommendation

TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing is a trusted HVAC expert in energy-efficient and modern AC solutions for your Greater San Francisco Bay Area home. Whether you want to upgrade your current system or you’re building a new home, we have a variety of options available to you. To get expert recommendations on whether a ductless mini-split is the right solution for your cooling and heating needs, contact us today!

To benefit from AC replacement, you must find the right AC unit for your home. It’s important to consult with an air conditioning service contractor. Whether your existing system is reaching the end of its life or is outdated, you have an opportunity to find a more energy-efficient system. However, ignoring important details or making a mistake can have costly consequences.

Finding the right AC unit requires knowing the size of the model you need. We’ll look at numerous factors related to air conditioner sizing and other variables to discuss with your HVAC contractor. 

Square Footage

Square footage isn’t the only size variable to consider when selecting an AC unit. Nonetheless, the square footage of individual rooms and your entire home is usually the first place to start. The larger your home, the more cooling capacity you need. Miscalculating capacity can mean getting too much or too little cool air and spending more on energy.

Ceiling Height

Ceiling heights aren’t included in square footage, but if your home has higher ceiling heights than average, it will require more power to be properly cooled. Ceiling height also influences air circulation. You’ll need a higher-capacity unit to counteract the accumulation of rising warmer air. Irregular airflow patterns caused by sloped or vaulted ceilings must also be considered. 

Number of Windows

It may seem less obvious, but windows have a big impact on an AC unit’s efficiency. If you have a lot of south- and west-facing windows, more sunlight causes higher heat gain, requiring a stronger AC. Other window-related AC sizing factors include:

• Number of Windows: More windows mean more opportunities for heat gain and air leakage.
• Age of Windows: Older windows tend to let more air seep in and are less insulated.
• Window Coverings: Blinds, curtains, and other coverings help windows be more efficient by blocking out sunlight.

Insulation

Insulation in walls, ceilings, and attics can affect AC efficiency. Each insulating material has an R-value; the higher the number, the greater a material’s thermal resistance (ability to prevent heat transfer). Replacing old materials or filling in poorly insulated gaps or spots with high R-value insulation can reduce energy consumption.

Climate

The climate conditions in your area determine how much cooling you need. A smaller air conditioner won’t perform well in soaring summer temperatures, and if your region sees cooler summers, a larger system may not be cost-effective. Nonetheless, you must consider the temperature range throughout the year, along with typical humidity levels.

About Calculating Cooling Capacity

The capacity of an air conditioner is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). The larger your home, the more BTUs you’ll need, but the requirements vary. For example, a well-insulated, shaded room generally needs 25 to 30 BTUs per square foot, but rooms with average insulation and moderate sun exposure may need 30 to 35 BTUs per square foot. However, a brightly lit room with poor insulation can require 35 to 40 BTUs per square foot.

Therefore, capacity requirements can vary significantly. Other factors that influence BTU requirements include the number of occupants, lighting fixtures, and the presence of heat-generating appliances. For a novice, working all these variables in a calculation can be overwhelming.

An HVAC professional has an easier way to perform a load calculation and find the right AC for your home. They may use formulas to input specific numbers. Or, they can use load calculation software tools that further streamline the process. This means load calculations can take less time, but this doesn’t minimize their importance at all.

About Efficiency Ratings

Every air conditioning unit has an efficiency rating on its label. You can use this to compare units and predict how a system will operate under standard conditions. Energy efficiency ratings include:

• Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER): This is an air conditioner’s cooling efficiency throughout a typical cooling season. Higher SEER ACs cost more upfront but consume less electricity and can save money over time.
• Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER): By measuring a unit’s cooling capacity under standard conditions, its EER can estimate how it will perform during peak demand and predict how it will operate during extreme temperatures.

Finding the Right Type of AC Unit

Sizing, efficiency, and other factors are heavily considered. It’s also important to consider the best type of unit. If you have a small home or a smaller room to cool, a window unit is an option. Central air conditioning systems are often used to cool entire homes; they use ducts to distribute air throughout the space. 

However, a split unit is better suited for cooling a smaller space or individual room. More advanced solutions include heat pumps (provide both heating and cooling) that are even more efficient. Another option is a mini-split; it allows you to zone your home for different levels of heating or cooling in different locations.

Additional Considerations

An AC unit must fit in the available space. If you have a small home, you may have fewer options. Also, consider the HVAC equipment you have. Does it match the AC unit you want to install? Will the new AC and your ductwork be compatible? If your ducts aren’t the appropriate length and diameter, issues with air velocity and pressure drop can affect performance and efficiency. To avoid persistent issues, you may want to consider replacing your entire HVAC system.

Contact TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing

In our years of serving homeowners in and around The Greater San Francisco Bay Area, our licensed AC technicians have installed high-efficiency cooling systems tailored to each client’s needs. We use the highest-quality products and brands and guarantee the highest quality of work. During AC replacement, our team advises you on the ideal model for your home and will remove your old unit, install the new system, and test it. To schedule air conditioning installation in Santa Clara County or San Mateo County, call (415) 223-1647 today.

It’s no secret that furnace maintenance can save you money. An annual tune-up can improve efficiency and avoid major repairs and early replacement. But it’s not the only way to care for your furnace. Many DIY furnace maintenance steps are effective. We’ll look at simple ways you can maintain your heating system throughout the year and some more advanced tasks to take on if you’re comfortable.

1. Replace the Air Filter

The air filter traps contaminants such as dust and pollen to keep your HVAC system running smoothly. A dirty filter can restrict airflow and strain your furnace. The filter should be replaced every three months or whenever it’s dirty or clogged. When changing it, note the filter’s length, width, and depth (it’s usually printed on the side of the filter) or measure it, as you’ll need to install a filter of the same size. 

The filter slot should be where the return air duct connects to the furnace. This is usually on the side near the bottom. Open the door or panel covering the filter and remove the old one. When inserting the new filter, make sure the arrows on it point toward the furnace.

2. Change the Oil Filter

If you have an oil furnace, the oil filter prevents impurities from blocking the oil burner nozzle. A clogged nozzle can cause a misfire. The system will then shut down. Replacing the oil filter requires closing the oil valve, removing the dirty filter, and disposing of it in compliance with your area’s hazardous waste regulations. Then follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing a new oil filter.

3. Keep the Exterior Clean

Dirt and dust on your furnace can get inside and make it inefficient. Cleaning outer surfaces is simple. You can use a damp cloth or a vacuum to clean the metal case. Clean the area around the unit too. 

There also shouldn’t be any clutter nearby, which can inhibit airflow or make it hazardous to work around your furnace. Remove boxes, tools, or toys. In addition, vacuum floor registers and then remove them to vacuum out duct connection points as well. This can improve efficiency and indoor air quality.

4. Clean the Air Registers

Air registers throughout your home tend to collect dust, lint, pet hair, and other debris. If a register is clogged, it can restrict airflow, similar to a blocked filter. Therefore, the furnace will work harder to maintain the set temperature, so maintenance isn’t limited to the unit itself or its immediate surroundings. All registers should be removed and cleaned with a high-power vacuum.

5. Check the Flue Pipe

The flue connects the furnace to its exhaust system. Remove any debris blocking it and look for cracks or other signs of damage. Any issues can cause harmful gases to leak into your home, including deadly carbon monoxide. Dirt or debris can be removed from the flue pipe by removing the access panel and using a brush or vacuum with an attachment. Reattach the panel when you’re done.

Inspect the outside of the flue pipe. If there are small holes, they can be patched temporarily with foil tape. But if there are larger areas of damage or corrosion, call a professional to repair or replace the flue.

6. Clean the Furnace Drain Pipes

The condensate lines of a high-efficiency furnace remove excess moisture. If they get clogged, water can back up and cause a leak. The condensate line is usually connected to a floor drain or external outlet near the furnace. To clean it, disconnect the line from both ends and flush out debris using either a gentle stream of water or a vacuum hose. If the line is clogged with mineral deposits, clear it with a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water.

7. Clean the Flame Sensor, Pilot, and Ignitor

Only access the inside of the furnace if you’re comfortable doing so. The inner workings are quite sensitive. They are also prone to getting dirty. With the furnace’s power and gas supply off, remove the access panel and locate the flame sensor near the burner assembly. Remove the sensor gently and clean any debris with a soft cloth or fine-grit sandpaper. Then reinsert the sensor and make sure it’s secure.

Next, remove dust or dirt from the pilot light with a small brush or compressed air. Depending on your furnace model, the pilot assembly may have to be removed for cleaning. Also, clean the ignitor, which is a critical combustion component, and check for cracks or other signs of damage. Check the wiring connections for signs of corrosion or looseness as well.

Contact TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing ’s Furnace Maintenance Professionals

Our technicians are experienced in maintaining, installing, and repairing many types of heating systems. You can save money by properly caring for your furnace throughout the year. We also recommend scheduling maintenance in the fall so the unit runs smoothly all winter. Our comprehensive maintenance services help avoid major repairs and breakdowns and extend your furnace’s operating life. To schedule maintenance or other heating services in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area, call (415) 223-5615 today.

Cleaning a furnace requires time and effort and is not a simple undertaking. Therefore, you should consider hiring a professional furnace cleaner at least once a year. It can be part of your annual heating maintenance visit. Other than changing the filter, which is simple, you should rely on a trained technician for more complex furnace and heating services.

Why You Should Hire a Professional Furnace Cleaner

Furnace maintenance keeps your heating unit running smoothly, safely, and efficiently. It can prevent big repairs and give your furnace a few more years of life. A thorough furnace cleaning has many benefits. We’ll now look at why you need a professional to help keep your furnace clean:

• Keep the Warranty Valid: Furnace cleanings may be required annually, depending on the warranty. Neglecting to hire a professional to clean the unit can void the warranty. Therefore, it won’t provide coverage to repair a major issue related to accumulated dirt and debris.
• Improved Efficiency: Dirty burners, sensors, blower assemblies, heat exchangers, vents, and other components cause your furnace to work harder. The more it runs, the more energy and fuel it uses. This means regular cleanings can maximize efficiency so you pay less for your monthly utility bills. Your furnace can operate in shorter, more regular cycles to provide a comfortable temperature.
• Cleaner Furnaces Burn Cleaner: Dust, debris, and carbon buildup on burners and inside the combustion chamber can contribute to the release of pollutants. A thorough cleaning removes the buildup to protect the air quality in your home and the environment in general. It can also prevent gases and fumes from building up and leaking into your home.
• A Safer Home: Dirt in ignition components, the burner assembly, and the heat exchanger can interfere with how your furnace works and create various safety hazards. A professional furnace cleaner can take steps to prevent harmful gases and particulates from contaminating your home. They can also help prevent a fire due to a poorly maintained furnace and avoid a carbon monoxide leak that you cannot see or smell but can be deadly.
• Your Furnace Can Last Longer: When they’re coated in dirt and grime, heating elements and electrical components wear out much faster, so your furnace can fail sooner. Preventative furnace maintenance, including cleaning, helps address minor issues to effectively extend your heating system’s lifespan. 
• Cost Savings Over Time: An annual maintenance and cleaning service is a small expense compared to dealing with consistently higher heating bills, major repairs, and having to replace your furnace prematurely. You can potentially save thousands of dollars over the life of your heating system.
• Less Noise from Your Furnace: As your furnace starts up and runs, you can hear its rumble when you’re nearby. The unit will become louder and vibrate more if it’s not cleaned properly. A furnace cleaner eliminates the buildup that causes the system to run more loudly. They can also tighten screws and secure loose panels, pipe brackets, ducts, and other components to reduce noise.
• Remove Duct Obstructions: During a furnace cleaning, the technician should also check for and clear any duct obstructions. Air ducts and vents near your furnace can clog with dirt, soot, and even rodents. A common sign of obstructions is rooms that don’t heat as effectively as others. Proper furnace maintenance can avoid these and other issues.
• Replace the Oil Filter: A furnace professional will replace the oil filter during maintenance (if you have an oil furnace). This should be done whenever cleaning the unit. Whether the oil level gets low or sludge and grime fill the tank, the filter can get clogged. Changing the filter allows more oil to reach the furnace; the technician can also remove sludge from the tank so your furnace provides optimal heating.

What Should I Know About Changing My Furnace Filter?

Don’t wait for a professional furnace cleaner to change the air filter. Your furnace has either a disposable or cleanable filter. The product manual should identify the type, recommended size, and location. Disposable filters are pleated or non-pleated and come in Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) ratings of 1 to 16 (for most homes, a MERV 6-12 filter is sufficient).

• Changing a Disposable Filter: To change a disposable filter, turn off the furnace’s electricity, open the front panel, and slide the old filter out. When installing the new filter, note the direction of the arrow, which indicates the airflow direction. The size of the filter on the filter frame and the door must match. Also, make sure the markings align when sliding the new filter in. Then close the panel, turn the power back on, and note when you replaced the filter (the entire process should take less than 15 minutes).
• Cleaning a Washable Filter: If the furnace has a washable filter, follow the same steps to remove it. Once the filter is removed, run a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment over the media. This should remove all dust and debris, and light should once again pass through the filter. Spray a mix of mild detergent and water on the filter and then hose it off in the sink. Set the filter aside to dry before reinstalling it.

Schedule Furnace Maintenance with TRIO Heating, Air & Plumbing

Regular furnace tune-ups and cleanings help your heating unit run more efficiently and improve safety and reliability. We specialize in maintaining gas, oil, and electric furnaces. For professional furnace maintenance in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area or anywhere in Santa Clara County or San Mateo County, call (415) 223-5096 today.