Replacing your oil furnace air filter is a simple DIY task that can save you money and improve your home environment.
In this step-by-step guide, I will walk you through the entire process, from gathering the necessary supplies to turning your furnace back on.
Quick Steps to Furnace Air Filter Replacement
Here's a quick overview of the steps involved in replacing your oil furnace air filter:
- Gather Supplies: Get a new filter of the correct size, and optionally a screwdriver and gloves.
- Turn Off Furnace: Switch off the power to your furnace for safety.
- Locate Filter: Find the filter housing, usually in a return air vent or the blower compartment.
- Remove Old Filter: Carefully slide the old filter out of the housing.
- Install New Filter: Insert the new filter with the airflow arrow pointing in the correct direction.
- Turn Furnace Back On: Restore power to your furnace.
This simple process can significantly impact your home's air quality and your furnace's performance. Let's dive into each step in more detail.
Table of Contents
- Gather Your Supplies and Prepare
- Locating the Air Filter
- Removing the Old Air Filter
- Installing the New Air Filter
- When to Replace Your Oil Furnace Air Filter
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Gather Your Supplies and Prepare
Before you begin, gather the few simple tools you'll need for this quick project:
- A New Air Filter: Make sure you purchase the correct size filter for your furnace.
- The size is usually printed on the old filter's frame.
- If you can't find it there, check your furnace's owner's manual or measure the filter housing dimensions.
- Taking a quick photo of the old filter before removing it is also a great idea.
- (Optional) Screwdriver: Some filter housings may require a screwdriver to open, while others have simple latches.
- (Optional) Gloves: If your old filter is particularly dirty, you might want to wear gloves to avoid getting dust and grime on your hands.
- (Optional) Vacuum Cleaner: A vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment can help clean around the filter housing before installing the new one.
Finding the Correct Filter Size
Getting the right size filter is essential.
- A filter that's too small won't effectively clean the air.
- One that's too large might not fit properly and could restrict airflow.
- Double-check the dimensions printed on your old filter or consult your furnace's owner's manual.
If you're still unsure, measure the length, width, and depth of the filter housing opening to determine the correct size.
Turning Off Your Furnace
For safety, always turn off your furnace before starting any maintenance work. Locate the power switch for your furnace, typically near the unit itself, and switch it to the "off" position. This will prevent the furnace from accidentally turning on while you're working.
Locating the Air Filter
The air filter in your oil furnace is usually located in one of two places:
Return Air Vent
This is the most common location. Return air vents are typically large grilles located on walls or ceilings throughout your home. They draw air back into the furnace to be reheated and circulated. The filter is often located behind this grille.
Blower Compartment
In some cases, the air filter might be located within the blower compartment of the furnace itself. This compartment is usually accessed through a panel on the side or front of the furnace.
Identifying the Filter Housing
The filter housing is a designated slot or compartment designed to hold the air filter. It's usually rectangular in shape and may have a door or latch securing it. Look for a panel or grille that can be easily removed.
Refer to your furnace's owner's manual if you have difficulty locating the filter housing.
Removing the Old Air Filter
Once you've located the filter housing, follow these steps to remove the old air filter:
- Open the Filter Housing:
- If your filter is located behind a return air vent, you might need to unscrew or unlatch the grille to access the filter.
- If it's in the blower compartment, open the access panel.
- Slide Out the Old Filter: Most filters simply slide out of the housing.
- Carefully pull the old filter out.
- Note the direction of airflow (there’s usually an arrow printed on the filter frame). This will help you install the new filter correctly.
- Inspect the Old Filter: Take a look at the old filter.
- A heavily soiled filter indicates that it was due for a change.
- If it's excessively dirty or damaged, handle it carefully to avoid spreading dust and debris.
- Dispose of the Old Filter: Discard the old filter in a plastic bag to contain the dust and dirt.
If the filter is particularly dirty, wear gloves to minimize contact with dust and debris.
You can also use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to clean any dust or debris around the filter housing before installing the new filter.
Installing the New Air Filter
Now that you've removed the old filter, it's time to install the new one. Follow these simple steps:
- Check Airflow Direction:
- Look for an arrow printed on the frame of the new filter.
- This arrow indicates the direction of airflow.
- The arrow should point towards the furnace's blower motor (and away from the return duct opening).
- This ensures that air flows correctly through the filter.
- Insert the New Filter:
- Carefully slide the new filter into the housing, making sure it fits snugly and completely within the frame.
- Don't force it; if it doesn't fit easily, double-check that you have the correct size filter and that it's oriented correctly.
- Close the Filter Housing: Securely close the filter housing door or latch, or replace the return air vent grille. Make sure everything is properly fastened to prevent air leaks.
A properly installed filter will ensure optimal airflow and efficient filtration. Double-check that the filter is securely in place before turning your furnace back on.
Once the new air filter is securely in place, it's safe to turn your furnace back on. Simply flip the power switch back to the "on" position. You should hear the furnace start up and begin circulating air.
That's it! You've successfully replaced your oil furnace air filter.
Remember to make a note of the date you changed the filter so you know when it's time for the next replacement.
When to Replace Your Oil Furnace Air Filter
While a general guideline is to replace your oil furnace air filter every 1-3 months, several factors can influence how often you should change it:
- Household Pets: If you have pets, you need to replace your filter more frequently, every month or every two months, due to increased pet dander and hair in the air.
- Allergies/Respiratory Issues: If anyone in your household suffers from allergies or respiratory problems, more frequent filter changes (every month or even more often during peak allergy seasons) can help improve indoor air quality.
- Dusty Environment: Living in a dusty environment, near a construction site, or in an area with high pollen counts will also necessitate more frequent filter replacements.
- Filter Type: Different types of filters have different lifespans. Basic fiberglass filters need to be changed more frequently, while pleated filters and HEPA filters can last longer.
Setting Reminders
To avoid forgetting to change your filter, mark the date on the new filter itself with a permanent marker, or set a reminder on your phone or calendar. This will help you stay on schedule and ensure your furnace is always operating at peak efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions about replacing oil furnace air filters:
What happens if I use the wrong size filter?
Using the wrong size filter can significantly impact your furnace's performance.
- A filter that's too small won't effectively clean the air, allowing dust and debris to circulate through your home and potentially damage your furnace.
- A filter that's too large might restrict airflow, causing your furnace blower to work harder and potentially overheat.
Always use the correct size filter as indicated on your old filter, in your owner's manual, or by measuring the filter housing.
What type of air filter should I use for my oil furnace?
Several types of air filters are available, including:
- Fiberglass filters are the least expensive but offer the lowest level of filtration.
- Pleated filters offer better filtration and last longer.
- HEPA filters provide the highest level of filtration, trapping even the smallest particles, but they are also the most expensive.
Choose a filter type that meets your household's needs and budget.
Can I clean and reuse my oil furnace air filter?
Generally, it's not recommended to clean and reuse disposable air filters.
Cleaning might remove some surface dirt, but it won't effectively remove the smaller particles trapped within the filter material. Furthermore, cleaning can damage the filter and reduce its effectiveness.
It's best to replace your filter with a new one according to the recommended schedule.
How often should I replace my filter if I have pets?
If you have pets, you'll likely need to replace your filter more frequently than the general recommendation of 1-3 months. Consider changing it every month or every two months to keep pet dander and hair from clogging the filter and reducing your furnace's efficiency.
My furnace is making strange noises after replacing the filter – what should I do?
If your furnace is making unusual noises after you've replaced the filter, turn it off immediately and check that the filter is properly installed and securely in place.
If the problem persists, contact a qualified HVAC technician to inspect your furnace and diagnose the issue.
It's possible that the noise is unrelated to the filter change, but it's best to err on the side of caution.
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