Air handler filter
#1
07-05-12, 12:34 PM
Air handler filter
Hi, all! Just wondering, what's the usual use time for a pleated air handler filter?
Thanks!
Thanks!
#2
07-05-12, 12:38 PM
Group Moderator
Not sure there's any standard - I like to look at them and when they look dirty, I replace them.
I know, not a scientific method....
I know, not a scientific method....
#3
07-06-12, 09:37 AM
I suppose it depends on dust conditions. I have only 198 hrs. on the one in there now, but I noticed it's whistling (no specific tune) ! I used to use the basic open mesh type, but I got that hot dusty odor coming out when the A H is running. I'm still getting the odor, but I don;t know what to do about it other than going through the aggravation and expense of replacing the ducts. Febreze?
#4
07-06-12, 09:40 AM
Group Moderator
I'm not a Febreeze fan, I think it's just perfume. If replacing the filter doesn't remove the odor, I would spray the odor eliminating product I use (Odo-Ban) in there and see if it makes any difference - pretty common for me to turn on the furnace fan and spray it into one of the cold air returns when the house is inundated with an odor like cooking fish or something like that.
#6
07-06-12, 09:54 AM
Group Moderator
I buy it at Sam's club but it's been a while - it comes in one gallon jugs of concentrate and it lasts me a long time. I think I bought the first one in 2000 and I'm only on my second one now.
#8
07-06-12, 12:12 PM
Member
Spraying something into the system won't solve the problem.
If your air handler has heat strips, it's possible that they're full of dust. (would only apply if it only smells when the heat is on)
You could have a leaky return duct if the air handler is in the attic.
If your air handler has heat strips, it's possible that they're full of dust. (would only apply if it only smells when the heat is on)
You could have a leaky return duct if the air handler is in the attic.
#9
07-06-12, 01:42 PM
The handler's in the "attic" (ranch, hip roof ). The odor mainly is emitted when the unit first comes on, when, I guess, the ducts are hot. I have a pretty dusty house because of carpet, and I figured the ducts got dust in them because the "cheapo" open mesh filters let dust get through.
#10
07-06-12, 02:08 PM
Group Moderator
Yeah, I should have prefaced spraying something in there only works for transient odors - if it persists, then you have to really investigate.
