How to Replace Heat Pump Air Filter Explained in Simple Terms

Scottsdale sees some of the highest temperatures in Arizona, with July highs reaching as hot as 107 degrees during midday. While it’s smart to prepare your air conditioner unit for these days, you shouldn’t overlook the 45-degree lows during the coldest months of December and January. So, learn how to maintain your heating system, such as how to replace heat pump air filters correctly. 

Below, we’ll explain how you can do so yourself. However, if you have any questions or concerns, call for heat pump repair services in Scottsdale, AZ, and we’ll replace the filter for you.

When Should You Replace Your Air Filter

In most locations, air filters work optimally for three to four months on all heating and cooling equipment. However, if you live in an area with poor air quality or high pollution levels or simply have a lot of pets whose dander compromises your indoor air, contaminants may fill up the meshy surface faster, which increases filter replacement frequency. 

Still, how can you tell exactly when to change them? One common sign is that your indoor air quality is starting to diminish since the dust, dander, and other debris that has built up on the filters are overflowing on the surface. In turn, they break off and reenter your breathing air, which can cause a layer of filth to settle on your vents, in your air ducts, and (eventually) on your furniture. 

Some might experience respiratory flare-ups, such as allergies or asthma attacks, which is why knowing how to replace heat pump air filters is crucial. However, another common sign is higher energy bills since clogged filters lead to less airflow. Your unit won’t have enough air to heat, causing it to work harder and longer, which pulls more electricity. 

Finding the Location of Your Heat Pump Filter

If you’re noticing any of these signs, the first thing you should do is find the filter location. Usually, you can find it in a housing cabinet near the indoor air handlers. Some units may allow you to open the door to this return air plenum without tools, but if the door is clamped shut, a screwdriver can help you loosen the tight seal.

However, if your home has a furnace system that switches on when it gets too cold for your heat pump to handle, the filter may be elsewhere. You’ll likely find it in the furnace’s return air plenum rather than the heat pump’s, which should be located on the side of the unit. 

Checking and Removing the Dirty Filter

Once you have the door open, it’s time to learn how to replace heat pump air filters the right way.

Conduct an air filter removal by carefully sliding the filter out and thoroughly inspecting it to ensure it’s the culprit. If it has a thick, fuzzy layer of dust, you’ll know it needs replacing. If left alone, it can lead to the system overheating and an eventual system shutdown.

Because the dust can take flight as you handle the dirty filter, carry a large trash bag with you so you can dispose of the filter immediately. That keeps you from traveling with it around your home, further exposing the filth to your breathing air. You should also have a vacuum with you so you can use the hose to suck up any additional dust and buildup lurking in the cabinet or around that workspace. 

However, before you toss the filter, check the label for its specific size so you can know how to replace a heat pump filter. If you cannot find this information, find the manufacturer’s name so you can visit the website. On there, it should tell you the appropriate filter size specifications that guarantee improved air quality. 

Can I Reuse the Same Filter?

After finding the correct filter, you can purchase it and slide it into the same location you took the previous one out of. However, for a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative, consider cleaning the filters instead. That process includes:

• Vacuuming the excessive dust off the filter surface while using the brush attachment
• Gently rinsing off the excess with warm water and a mild soapy solution
• Rinsing off the detergent and leaving it to air dry
• Reinstalling the filters