West Hills Co-op Furnace Filter Replacement

Introduction
Clean air filters are as essential on your furnace as they are on your car. They can filter out pollen and dust and need to be cleaned or replaced as recommended by the furnace manufacturer. Filters should be checked monthly during the heating season and the cooling season if you have air conditioning.
Remove Filter for Inspection
	To inspect the air filter do the following:
	Locate the air filter. Depending on the furnace design, it can either be located in the blower door unit itself or located between the blower and the return air duct. You may need a screwdriver to help pry open the access panel or blower door.
	Remove the filter from its support.
Inspect the Filter
		The next step is to inspect the filter.
		Hold the filter up to light and check to see how much light passes through.
		If it is a paper or fiberglass filter and is dirty, replace it.
		If the filter is a dry foam type filter you can wash it out or vacuum it clean.
Replace the Filter
If the filter needs replacement proceed as follows:
With paper or fiberglass filters you may notice that the frame is made of cardboard. Also note the arrow on the frame that shows the direction of air flow for the filter. Insert the filter back into its holding frame with air flow positioned correctly as per the arrow.
With foam filters replace the cleaned or new filter as appropriate. These are usually frameless so you will have to position it carefully according to the design of your furnace.
Replace the access panel or blower door as required.
Repeat the inspection process monthly.