Installing the right attic insulation and air-sealing your home improves comfort and energy efficiency, but insulation thickness plays a role. It corresponds with a material’s R-value or ability to re-heat flow. Your climate and home’s age also determine the best type and thickness of insulation Heating & Air, specializes in installing attic insulation and will share our expertise to help you make informed decisions.

Insulation Thickness vs. R-Value

The Greater San Francisco Bay Area lies mainly in Climate Zone 3. An uninsulated attic should have R30 to R60 insulation. If you have an existing layer of insulation of 3 to 4 inches, any additional material should be rated R25 to R38.

Here’s a more general look at insulation thickness and R-value.

• 4 to 5 Inches: Is rated R-15 and found mainly in poorly insulated and older homes.
• 6 to 7 Inches: Is rated R-21 and considered inadequate, even in a filled joist.
• 13 to 14 Inches: Is rated R-38 and suited for most southern locations.
• 16 to 18 Inches: Is rated R-49 and suited for most northern climates.

You can also use the thickness of existing insulation to determine how much to add. For example, if your attic insulation is 9 inches deep (R26) and you want to increase it to R38, which is 12.75 inches thick, you must add 3.75 inches of insulation. Professionals use more precise calculations so consider hiring a contractor to achieve optimal efficiency.

Calculating the R-Value of an Insulating Material

Every material in a house has an R-value. An inch of solid wood has an R-value of 1. An inch of blown fiberglass insulation is rated 3.1 to 3.4. To determine a material’s total R-value, use the following formulas:

• Fiberglass Batts: Multiply the depth of the material by 3.2.
• Vermiculite/Perlite Granules: Multiply the depth by 2.7.
• Cellulose Fibers: Multiply the depth by 3.7.
• Rock Wool: Multiply the depth by 2.8.
• Loose Fiberglass: Multiply the depth by 2.5.

How to Know You Need More Attic Insulation

Whether you need more insulation in your attic depends on the following:

• Your Location: You’ll need thicker, higher R-value insulation if you live in the Northeast or Rockies than in most parts of California. 
• Age of Your Home: Homes that are over 10 years old usually need more insulation. Your home may need to be retrofitted with mineral wool or fiberglass insulation.
• Your Attic Is Well-Insulated: If the insulation is thick enough to hide the floor joists, you probably don’t need more. However, if it’s level with or just below the floor joists, consider adding more insulation.
• Insulation Is Evenly Distributed: Low spots in the insulation can lead to efficiency issues. If your attic insulation is thicker in the middle and there’s less near the eaves, it should be improved.

To check the depth of your attic insulation, first find your attic access. This is often a drop-down ladder or a hole in the ceiling where you need to use a ladder to gain access, while other homes have an access point in a closet. Next, determine your insulation type (fiberglass is often pink, yellow, or white, cellulose often consists of small gray flat pieces, and rock wool tends to be gray or near white with black specs).

Now, you can directly measure your insulation. Use a ruler or tape measure in different spots. Then, average the measurements you get to determine the insulating material’s overall depth and R-value.

A Word on Adding Insulation

Insulation can be added to existing materials. If you have fiberglass batt or blanket insulation, you can put loose fill on top of it. Batts and blankets can also be installed above loose fill if any paper or foil backing has been removed. Adding insulation can be tricky depending on the material. For example, loose fill requires using a blowing machine. Unless you’re handy with this type of equipment, it’s best to hire a professional.

Contact Trio Heating & Air

If you live in Santa Clara County or San Mateo County, we can install attic insulation in your home. We often install fiberglass or cellulose insulation in different forms, including blown-in or rolled, and remove and replace old insulation when necessary. A thorough inspection allows our technicians to determine the best approach to improving energy efficiency so you save money over time. Contact us today to schedule a free estimate and insulation installation services in your home.

At Trio Heating & Air, we’re often asked about the cost of furnace cleaning services. A furnace cleaning is a minor expense compared to repairs and other projects, so it is worth it. Most basic residential jobs cost under $100 although more extensive cleanings can cost more. In this article, we’ll look at what factors impact the price, the furnace cleaning process, and the benefits of professional service.

Not All Furnace Cleaning Services Cost the Same

Your local heating company doesn’t likely charge a flat rate for furnace cleaning. There are several considerations when determining a fee. A contractor will use the following factors to decide on a rate:

• Type of Service: A minor cleaning doesn’t cost as much as cleaning out the interior of the furnace, its components, and connections.
• Unit Type/Size: The larger the unit, the longer the process takes and the more your heating company may charge. Gas and electric furnaces are typically easier to clean compared to oil furnaces with more parts to clean.
• Location of Furnace: A furnace cleaning service for a unit in an easy-to-reach area tends to cost less than for one in an attic or crawlspace.
• Labor: A contractor’s hourly rate can affect the cost of a furnace cleaning. It can vary by company and location. Rates and prices may also vary depending on the season.
• Discounts: A discount can save you a few dollars, especially if you combine a furnace cleaning with repairs or have multiple units serviced.

If a clogged oil line needs to be cleared, or a chimney cleaned, a contractor will charge extra on top of the price for a furnace cleaning service. 

Benefits of a Professional Furnace Cleaning Service

Professional service is worth the small investment for several reasons:

• Safety: A licensed contractor has the training and experience to clean your furnace safely. One mistake can lead to injury or worse. Aside from safety considerations during the process, they can also find and address hazards like carbon monoxide or gas leaks. 
• Save Time: Heating contractors know what to do and have cleaned many furnaces. They can get the work done in a fraction of the time, so you don’t spend hours figuring out how to access parts of your furnace or perform certain tasks.
• Efficiency: If a furnace is dirty or not maintained properly, it may not run as efficiently. As a result, your energy bills go up. When a professional cleans your furnace, they complete tasks that help it run at peak efficiency. The savings on your monthly energy bills over time certainly make the service worthwhile.
• Extend Your Furance’s Life: Since having your furnace cleaned professionally allows it to work more smoothly, less wear and tear can extend the unit’s operating life. Therefore, you can save on the cost of early replacement.
• Comfort: A clean furnace runs more reliably. It’s less likely to have performance issues or problems with airflow or heat distribution. The improvement in comfort during the colder months makes a furnace cleaning service worth it.

How to Maximize the Value of a Furnace Cleaning Service

To get the most out of a heater cleaning service, hire an HVAC professional. They are trained and equipped to inspect the unit for signs of excess dirt, wear, or corrosion. The flue and venting systems are also evaluated, as are the thermostat, safety controls, and electrical connections.

Once the inspection is completed, the cleaning process can begin. Heating technicians have specialized tools that help them effectively remove dust, dirt, and debris. They can also safely clean the burners, ignition system, blower motor, fan, and other components. A final check of the temperature, airflow, and pressure ensures the furnace works within the manufacturer’s specifications. The technician performs a final safety check as well.

To further maximize the value of a furnace cleaning, follow these DIY maintenance tips:

• Replace the air filter as often as recommended by the manufacturer or heating company.
• Clean dirt and clutter from the area around the furnace; keep flammable materials away.
• Check the thermostat and contact your local HVAC company if it’s not working properly.

Finding the Right Furnace Cleaning Company

A furnace cleaning service is worth it only if you find a contractor with the right credentials. These are the most important things to consider when deciding who to call:

• Certification by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC), National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), or other reputable organizations.
• Proper industry licensing and insurance, which protects your property and finances if an accident or damage occurs while the contractor is working.
• Experience with furnace cleaning services, as revealed by online reviews and references, and use of the latest techniques and equipment.

Schedule a Furnace Cleaning from Trio Heating & Air

We proudly offer a range of heating services in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area. Our certified technicians provide comprehensive furnace cleanings and check for issues to correct before your furnace needs major repairs. To schedule a heating or furnace cleaning service in your home, use our booking tool or call (415) 532-2984.

Your local HVAC contractor will handle the installation of a whole-house air purification system. However, being prepared can make the job easier. Installing a whole-house air purifier is much more complex than setting up a portable model. It’s not something you want to do yourself, although the more you know, the more informed you are about a decision you can make. We’ll look at some important details to consider before choosing a system and scheduling installation.

Why Choose a Whole-House Air Purifier?

Standalone air purifiers can do a good job, but their coverage is typically limited. Installing multiple purifiers around your home can be tedious and expensive, not to mention waste energy. They may also not capture all the pollutants in the air.

A whole-house unit is installed directly in your HVAC system. Air is purified as it passes through the ductwork, which reduces air duct contamination and increases system efficiency. This also protects HVAC equipment from potential damage. The filtration element is a single unit that can clean all the air circulating through your home.

A Professional Evaluation

An in-home evaluation is a key step in preparing for whole-house air purification system installation. Your local HVAC company sends a technician to check numerous variables. In assessing your home, they look at the following factors:

• Size of the space the air purifier will serve.
• The number of air changes per hour is needed.
• Specific pollutants that must be targeted.

In addition, a professional determines the ideal location for the equipment. It should be installed where no obstructions restrict air intake or output. They will choose a location or suggest modifications so no furniture, curtains, or other items interfere with the unit. 

Decide on the Best System

Different types of whole-house air purifiers are available. They differ based on the types of particulates they’re most effective at removing. There is also a range of technologies. Here are a few types to consider as you prepare for whole-house air purification system installation:

• Filtration-Based Air Purifiers: A whole-house filtration unit removes smaller particles than a standard fiber-based filter. Some purifiers use a carbon filter, but others use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters that remove the finest airborne particles, including dust, pollen, mold spores, and bacteria.
• UV-Based Air Purifiers: Using UV-C light, a UV air purifier can effectively neutralize organic pathogens and microorganisms. Many whole-house air purification systems combine mechanical filtration with ultraviolet light.
• Electronically Charged Air Purifiers: These use electrical energy to give particles a positive or negative charge, attracting them to a metal plate. This element must be regularly washed and replaced. The system works with large and small particles. 

Determine the Best Efficiency Rating for Your Home

Air purification systems are rated using a Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV). The higher the MERV rating, the smaller the particles a filter can remove, but the more it can impede airflow and strain a heating or cooling system. 

A fiberglass filter typically has a 1-3 MERV rating. It can get clogged quickly and doesn’t capture many particulates. Filter changes are required about every 30 days. A pleated filter has a 7-12 MERV rating and can capture more pollutants. The most effective filtration systems have HEPA-rated filters with MERV ratings of 17 or higher. They can remove up to 99% of particles from indoor air, though they require a powerful HVAC system to maintain airflow and avoid equipment damage.

Therefore, consult with your HVAC contractor about whether your heating and cooling system is strong enough to work with a whole-house air purifier.

The Installation Process

Knowing the whole-house air purification system installation process can help you understand how to get prepared. You’ll need to clear a path for the installers from the front door to the area where they install the equipment. The space around the air handler or furnace must also be cleared of obstructions or clutter. 

While air scrubbers are mounted directly within the ductwork and air cleaners between the return ducts and air handler, whole-house air purifiers are different. If installed the same way, they’d restrict airflow too much. The system cannot be connected directly to your ductwork; the blower could be overloaded. A residential HVAC system isn’t strong enough.

Therefore, some preparation is required beforehand. The air purification system must be installed as a bypass, which requires the following steps:

• Cut two circular holes in the return plenum.
• Connect the purifier to the plenum with flexible ducting.
• Set up one flex duct to supply air to the purifier.
• Attach the other flex duct to the return duct.

One tube delivers air directly to the purification system. Meanwhile, the second flex tube delivers clean air to the return duct. As the HVAC system runs, the blower creates suction so air can be drawn through the filter. An electric fan blows clean air into the return ductwork.

Do I Have as Much Filtration As I Need?

Whole-house air purifiers are complex and not cheap. Therefore, research each type of system and carefully consider the model you install. The typical air purification system has a series of filters. This enables them to trap various-sized particles. 

A pre-filter traps pet hair and other large particles and in most units, air then passes through a HEPA filter. Some units contain a carbon filter to trap odors. Others use catalysts and UV light to eliminate organic pollutants, including microorganisms and volatile organic compounds.

Prepare Your HVAC System

Depending on your heating and cooling system, it may need to be prepared before a whole-house air purifier can be installed. Any required modifications ensure safety, efficiency, and optimal indoor air quality. Some services that can be suggested include air duct cleaning or replacing existing filters. A technician may also inspect electrical components and connections to ensure there are no hazards or code violations.

Consider the Cost-Benefits

Whole-house air purifiers can cost thousands of dollars. You can prepare by budgeting and considering the benefits of such an investment. For example, the removal of particles and other pollutants can protect your HVAC system from damage. It can avoid costly repairs, improve energy efficiency, and have health benefits. Therefore, while the initial investment may be high, the cost of frequent repairs, high utility bills, and indoor air quality-related medical expenses may be eliminated.

Hire a Local HVAC Contractor 

Aside from installing equipment, a professional helps plan and prepare for whole-house air purification system installation. They are trained in every part of the process. Using the proper tools and techniques, they ensure the unit is compatible with your HVAC system, properly connected, and sealed to avoid air leakage and contamination. A reputable contractor can be found through online reviews, friends and family members, and by contacting the business directly and assessing its quality of service.

Contact Trio Heating & Air

At Trio Heating & Air, we provide whole-house air purification system installation and maintenance services in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area. We use cutting-edge equipment to eliminate a wide range of airborne impurities. Our comprehensive installation process includes an indoor air quality assessment and finding equipment suited for your home and HVAC system. You can also depend on our team for professional air duct cleaning and filter replacement. To learn more or request an assessment, contact us or call (415) 480-7741.

The air scrubber installation process requires a professional. However, we find many customers are curious about the steps involved. An air scrubber is a highly effective indoor air quality solution that can remove allergens, microorganisms, and odors from within your ductwork. Trio Heating & Air has experienced air scrubber installers who ensure residents in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area have cleaner air to breathe.

What Does an Air Scrubber Do?

An air scrubber is an advanced filtration system. It combines higher efficiency filters than your HVAC system’s standard filter elements. Photocatalytic oxidation is often achieved by using ultraviolet (UV) light. Oxidizing agents are produced that destroy microorganisms and other organic pollutants. The system also removes dust, pollen, mold spores, bacteria, and other contaminants that can cause allergies and health issues.

The Air Scrubber Installation Process

Installing an air scrubber requires lots of considerations. There are different types of air scrubbers depending on your home and its indoor air quality. Once you select a unit, the installation process requires various tools and materials; these include a screwdriver or drill, a sealing material, and hardware such as mounting brackets. Additionally, installers wear gloves, safety glasses, and other protective gear.

These being considered, here’s a look at the installation process:

Choose the Right Air Scrubber

Selecting the right equipment for your home is crucial before the air scrubber installation process begins. Air scrubbers are rated by how much air they can purify in cubic feet per minute. Therefore, the size of your home is a factor in selecting a unit. Also, the larger it is, the more you’ll have to invest, so your budget is a consideration.

Other factors involved in selecting an air scrubber include:

• The layout of your home
• Specific air quality concerns
• The health needs of your household
• How much pollution is present
• Airflow/speed adjustment for noise control
• The manufacturer’s warranty

Prepare Your Home

Once you select an air scrubber and schedule an installation date, it’s time to ready your home so the HVAC contractor’s work is easier. Take the following steps to make things simpler for them:

• Find a Place to Install the Unit: An air scrubber is most effective when installed in your HVAC system. They can be placed in a basement or centralized location. Wherever you choose, that spot should allow for optimal airflow and be accessible for filter changes and other maintenance.
• Clean the Installation Area: Be sure to clean any dust or debris and remove obstacles that can interfere with the installer’s job. You’ll create a clean and safe work environment for them and help the air scrubber installation process go more smoothly.
• Turn Off Your HVAC System: This step is easily forgotten. But if your HVAC system is on, integrating an air scrubber can trigger an accident such as electrocution. Therefore, turn off the HVAC unit before the installer arrives.

Position the Unit

An air scrubber must be properly positioned so it can work effectively. The ideal spot for a residential unit is the return air duct. While a portable or standalone model should be positioned in the center of a room or area where pollution is high, an integrated one should be installed near the HVAC unit. This maximizes its efficiency.

Mount the Air Scrubber

The manufacturer should supply mounting brackets or other hardware to secure the air scrubber. The device integrates directly with the air handler or furnace. Proper mounting ensures the unit is stable and supported. This also enables it to operate seamlessly as it cleans the air that passes through your ductwork. 

Attach It to Your Ductwork

An air scrubber is attached to air ducts using screws or brackets. Still, some gaps can remain. They can be sealed with duct tape or other sealing material, which prevents air leaks that can reduce efficiency. 

The individual air scrubber model should come with an installation guide for the technician to follow. Most systems have a UV light. It is installed near the air handler, where it can effectively break down airborne contaminants.

System Testing

When they complete an air scrubber installation, the contractor powers on the unit and tests it. They can verify whether it’s operating correctly and that air flows through the unit as intended. If there are issues with the device powering up, airflow is restricted, or something else isn’t right, the technician will take the appropriate steps to address it. 

Filter Installation

Air filters are installed per the HVAC system’s and air scrubber’s manufacturer. High-efficiency particulate air, or HEPA filters, have specific installation requirements. Installing them correctly increases efficiency further. The technician will also explain how long filters should last and how to know they need replacement.

Final Evaluation

During a final check, the contractor will verify all connections are secure. If no air leaks are present, they proceed with checking whether the unit operates quietly. They may also take other steps to ensure it’s running efficiently.

Advice on Operating Your Air Scrubber

The installer should explain how to use the air scrubber before they leave. Some of the points they may discuss include the following:

• Powering It On: Depending on the model, it may start automatically or have a power button. Either way, it must be plugged into a power source.
• Adjust the Settings: The technician should walk you through how to adjust airflow, fan speed, and purification levels. Many units have higher settings for use in rooms with higher allergen or pollution levels.
• Air Quality Monitoring: If your air scrubber has a built-in air quality monitor, indicators can show you if pollution is present and if settings need to be adjusted. 

In addition, your air scrubber installer should explain basic maintenance steps. These include checking and replacing filters, ensuring the air intake and output aren’t blocked, and cleaning the unit’s exterior. The technician may also discuss when to schedule HVAC unit and ductwork maintenance.

Why You Need an HVAC Technician

It’s essential to pick the right professional. If you don’t have experience or allow an unqualified person to install an air scrubber, it may not purify the air in your home. It can also become a safety hazard. But at the very least, you risk wasting time and money.

When selecting a company, research its experience and track record with air scrubber installation. The technicians should be familiar with the make and model. Also, check the company is licensed, insured, and has positive reviews, ensuring you have a qualified professional who can help select, install, and test your air scrubber. This ensures it works effectively and efficiently over the long run. 

Contact Trio Heating & Air

Our team is committed to exceptional customer service whether installing HVAC systems or providing indoor air quality solutions. These include air sealing, air duct cleaning, and installing whole-house purification equipment and air scrubbers. To learn more or inquire about the air scrubber installation or air duct cleaning cost, contact us or call (415) 942-9188.

A heater repair can cost hundreds if not thousands of dollars, but there are ways to save and avoid draining your finances. Heating systems (and HVAC components in general) are complex. Fixing or replacing faulty blower motors, thermocouples, heat exchangers, capacitors, ignitors, and wiring requires materials and labor. Once there’s a problem, the expenses of heating repair are unavoidable. However, here are seven ways to protect your budget and the health of your heating system.

1. Do Not Attempt a DIY Fix

Some homeowners try to repair heaters themselves instead of hiring a professional. Whether your goal is to save money or simply show off your handiness, this doesn’t have any benefits. A DIY heater repair risks mistakes such as misdiagnosing the issue, purchasing the wrong part, or installing it incorrectly. 

The task might also require tools you don’t have. Plus, there’s a risk of damaging the unit or injuring yourself. Or, at the very least, you could void the warranty, so the cost of fixing the initial problem and any damage you cause must be paid for out of pocket. Therefore, DIY fixes are never a good idea. 

2. Promptly Address Any Heater Issues

If you postpone a heating repair, more serious and expensive issues can occur later. The unit may also break down and require early replacement. In an urgent situation, a heating contractor may charge two or three times their normal call-out fee. You can save money by calling them during business hours and when the situation is not dire.

Calling a professional as soon as possible can prevent big repairs, avoid an emergency, and extend the system’s lifespan. To avoid a heating emergency, call your local heater repair company when you notice the following signs of trouble:

• Increasing energy bills
• Dusty heating vents
• Malfunctioning pilot light
• Popping, squeaking, and other strange noises
• Longer heating times
• More frequent cycling
• Water leaking from the unit
• Your furnace appears worn out

3. Contact a Qualified Heating Contractor

Only a heating services contractor with the right qualifications should repair your furnace. If a repair tech does not have the proper experience, letting them service the unit can do more harm than good. They could make the situation worse. In this case, you must call the same company again or hire another contractor for additional repairs. To avoid unnecessary hassles and expenses:

• Read online reviews of heating contractors.
• Check their credentials before hiring a heating company.
• Contact friends and family members for recommendations.
• Ask a contractor questions about their experience.
• Get price quotes in writing before agreeing to any service.

4. Replace an Aging Heating Unit

If your old heating equipment is starting to show its age, planning a replacement can avoid spending money on emergency heating repairs. Older units also tend to need more frequent fixes. That means spending on parts, materials, and labor each time. Purchasing a new furnace and having it installed requires an initial investment. However, avoiding repeated repairs can be a more affordable option in the long term, especially when you consider energy savings and a new warranty.

5. Purchase a Home Warranty

A home warranty for heating repairs is an option if the manufacturer’s or dealer’s warranty doesn’t cover as much as you’d like. According to Forbes, a major home heater repair can cost $1,200 or more. That’s a big hit on the average homeowner’s budget. A home warranty that covers heating and other systems, such as plumbing and electrical, can help you avoid paying significant expenses. Some home warranties even cover appliances such as refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, microwaves, and more.

Purchasing a home warranty is beneficial if:

• You don’t know how old your heating system is.
• It’s unknown how long ago your appliances were installed. 
• The previous owners did not keep complete maintenance records.

Such a warranty makes financial sense if you continue using older systems and appliances. You can also ask your local heating contractor if the unit is still covered and, if not, what options they recommend.

6. Sign Up for Your Heating Contractor’s Maintenance Plan

Your local HVAC company may offer a warranty if you join its service plan. An extended parts and labor warranty can offer coverage into the later years of your heater’s life. Trio includes such a plan for the lifetime of your membership. Plus, you receive an annual heating system tune-up, discounts on repairs, and a guaranteed rapid response in an emergency. Our maintenance plan ensures your system gets the service it needs and that all records are accurate, which helps keep the warranty valid.

7. Schedule Annual Heater Maintenance

If your HVAC company doesn’t provide service reminders, keep a schedule for when to request preventative maintenance. It can avoid major heating repairs and ensure your system runs reliably and efficiently. Although a contractor may charge for some services, routine maintenance keeps expenses more predictable. 

The sooner minor issues are fixed, the less likely they’ll cause wear that creates systemwide problems. Therefore, you can save up to thousands of dollars over your heating system’s lifespan. This includes cost-savings both in repairs and longer intervals between equipment replacements.

We recommend scheduling heating maintenance in early fall to avoid service delays and higher costs during the busy season.

Call Trio for Professional Heating Repair and Maintenance

At Trio Heating & Air, we service heating and cooling systems in homes throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. Our licensed and highly trained technicians can perform any type of heater repair. They also repair heaters of all types. Customer satisfaction is our top priority. We make sure you have reliable heating and your energy bills are kept in check. To request heating repair at reasonable prices and learn more ways to save, call (415) 223-5096 today.

You don’t usually need a professional for air duct filter replacement. Although it may be different than replacing an air handler or window AC filter, it’s just as important. And, the process takes just a few minutes. Regular air filter replacement can reduce energy bills, improve indoor air quality, and extend the life of your HVAC system. If you’re unfamiliar with this task, we’ll explain how it works.

How to Replace a Return Air Duct Filter

A filter may be located in the return air vent or somewhere in the return duct. It ensures the air drawn from rooms is free of particulates by the time it reaches your furnace or air handler. Fortunately, replacing it isn’t complicated and does not require a professional. Follow these steps to remove the old air filter and install a new one:

1. Turn off your HVAC unit to prevent dust and dirt from contaminating the system.
2. Open the vent (to access a filter installed near the return vent).
3. Unhook the latch to release the drawer housing the filter (if the filter is inside the duct).
4. Remove the old filter from the frame and discard it.
5. Note the size of the filter on the side.
6. If the size isn’t listed, measure the filter carefully or consult your HVAC system’s owner’s manual.

Once you have the new filter, insert it into the same location as the old one. Its arrow must point in the direction of the airflow (or toward the furnace). With the filter in place, close the drawer and secure the latch.

However, before you install the filter, it’s a good idea to wipe the area with a microfiber cloth. Otherwise, dirt can blow into the system or clog up the new filter. To remove dust between the grill slats, you can wrap the cloth around the tip of a flathead screwdriver. Gently move the screwdriver along each slat to clean it. You can also use a brush attachment to vacuum the cover.

In addition to replacing the return air duct filter, filters in the air handler cabinet, furnace, and other parts of your HVAC system should be properly maintained.

When to Change Your Air Filter

Some air filters are rated for 30 days and others for 90 days. Media filters are thicker and, depending on the type, can last six to 12 months. Replace the filter as suggested by the manufacturer. You can write the date on your calendar when the filter was installed. Setting an alert on your phone can also remind you when to change it. 

However, air duct filter replacement can be performed sooner than suggested if you notice any of the following issues:

• A Lack of Air Circulation: The filter may be clogged, restricting the amount of airflow in your home. This also affects temperature control and distribution.
• Air Conditioner Leakage: The flow of warm air into the system is restricted, preventing the evaporator coil from absorbing heat. It can then freeze; as the ice thaws, water can leak from your AC system into your home.
• Rising Energy Bills: A clogged filter forces the blower fan and other components to work harder, increasing energy consumption. As a result, your electric bills go up.

A central air conditioning system is designed to work with a certain amount of air. Blocked airflow causes components to work harder to compensate. This accelerates wear and tear, so major repairs become more common and your heating and cooling system can fail sooner than expected.

Reasons to Hire a Contractor for Air Duct Filter Replacement

Most people can replace an air duct filter on their own. However, you may consider hiring a local HVAC contractor in some circumstances. These are a few reasons to call a professional and schedule service:

• Frozen Evaporator Coil: The coil can freeze for a few reasons, including low refrigerant, and ice can easily damage it. A technician can thoroughly inspect and test the system to determine why the evaporator coil keeps freezing and if it needs to be repaired or replaced.
• Utility Bills Are Still High: If your energy bill remains high or continues to increase even with regular filter replacements, call for help. Numerous HVAC issues can cause decreased energy efficiency. This is often the first sign of a developing problem.
• It’s Time for Maintenance: We recommend maintenance at least annually; however, your AC should be checked in the spring and furnace in the fall. If your system is due for maintenance and it’s time for air duct filter replacement, request an appointment so a technician can help you.
• Sizing a New Filter: While a Manual J calculation determines the right-sized AC or heater, a Manual D calculation helps size ductwork and can help in selecting a larger filter. Choosing the ideal filter can optimize airflow and system performance. However, the system may also need improvements, such as a larger plenum box.
• You Have a Commercial HVAC System: Commercial HVAC systems use different sizes and types of filters than residential units. Replacing them can be challenging. These filters are often held in place by special brackets and a gasket. Therefore, air duct filter replacement requires knowledge of these components to ensure air is filtered properly and the system works as designed.

Replacing a Duct Filter: DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

If your home has an air duct filter, you can most often replace it yourself. There’s no need for a professional unless it’s time for maintenance or you suspect an HVAC system issue. You can also call a pro if you’re considering a larger, more efficient filter. They can help choose the appropriate type and model, and determine if other updates are needed. A professional should always replace air duct filters in a commercial HVAC system.

Contact Trio Heating & Air

An HVAC filter must be replaced regularly. Neglecting to change one (and poor maintenance in general) can reduce efficiency, performance, and indoor air quality. Our licensed contractors can help with air duct filter replacement, air duct cleaning, and other indoor air quality services. We provide a customized approach for each home and find effective, high-efficiency solutions. To request service, book an appointment online or call (415) 223-5096.