Don’t Sweat It! How to Change Goodman Air Conditioner Filter for a Cooler, Cleaner Space

Summer is here, and with it comes the inevitable heat. Your Goodman air conditioner is your trusty companion in the fight against sweltering temperatures, but it needs your help to keep running efficiently. One of the simplest yet most crucial tasks you can perform to ensure your AC’s optimal performance is changing the air filter. Knowing how to change Goodman air conditioner filter is essential for maintaining a cool and comfortable home.

Why Changing Your Filter Matters

Think of your air conditioner’s filter as a barrier against dust, pollen, pet dander, and other airborne particles. Over time, these particles accumulate on the filter, clogging it up. This blockage restricts airflow, forcing your AC to work harder. The result? Higher energy bills, reduced cooling efficiency, and potentially even premature wear and tear on your unit.

Identifying Your Goodman Air Filter

Before diving into the changing process, you need to locate the filter. Goodman air conditioners typically have their filters located in one of three places:

• Return Air Grille: This is the most common location. The return air grille is usually situated on the wall or ceiling, and it draws air back into the system. The filter is often concealed behind a removable panel or grille.
• Furnace: If your Goodman air conditioner is paired with a furnace, the filter might be located inside the furnace cabinet.
• Air Handler: Similar to the furnace, if your system has an air handler, the filter might be located in the air handler cabinet.

Gathering Your Supplies

Changing your Goodman air conditioner filter is a simple process, but you’ll need a few essential supplies:

• New air filter: Ensure you’re using the correct size and type of filter for your Goodman air conditioner. Refer to your owner’s manual or the filter itself for the recommended size and type.
• Screwdriver: You might need a screwdriver to remove the filter access panel, depending on your unit’s design.
• Gloves (optional): If you’re sensitive to dust, wearing gloves can prevent skin irritation.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Goodman Air Conditioner Filter

Now that you have everything you need, let’s get started:
1. Turn off the AC: For safety, always turn off your air conditioner at the thermostat before changing the filter.
2. Locate the filter: Find the return air grille, furnace, or air handler where your filter is located.
3. Remove the old filter: Depending on your unit’s design, you might need to remove a panel or grille to access the filter. Carefully pull the old filter out, taking note of its orientation.
4. Inspect the old filter: Take a moment to examine the old filter. If it’s heavily clogged, it’s time for a replacement.
5. Insert the new filter: Slide the new filter into the frame, ensuring it’s properly seated and oriented in the same direction as the old filter.
6. Replace the panel (if applicable): If you removed a panel, reattach it securely.
7. Turn the AC back on: Switch your air conditioner back on at the thermostat.

Filter Replacement Frequency

The frequency with which you need to change your air conditioner filter depends on factors like:

• Air quality: If you live in an area with high pollen counts or dust levels, you’ll need to change your filter more often.
• Pet ownership: Pet dander can clog filters quickly, so you might need to change them every month.
• Occupancy: A household with more people will generate more dust and require more frequent filter changes.

As a general rule of thumb, it’s recommended to change your Goodman air conditioner filter every 1-3 months. However, it’s best to check the filter regularly and replace it when it becomes visibly dirty or clogged.

Beyond Filter Changes: Other Maintenance Tips

While changing the air conditioner filter is a crucial task, it’s just one part of keeping your Goodman AC running smoothly. Here are some other maintenance tips to consider:

• Clean the condenser coils: The condenser coils are located outside your home and can become clogged with dirt and debris. Clean them with a garden hose or coil cleaning brush to improve efficiency.
• Check the air filter: Inspect your air filter regularly and replace it as needed.
• Check the refrigerant levels: Low refrigerant levels can affect cooling performance. Contact a qualified technician if you suspect a leak.
• Clean the evaporator coils: The evaporator coils are located inside the unit and can become dirty. Contact a professional for cleaning.
• Check the blower motor: The blower motor circulates air throughout your home. Ensure it’s running smoothly and replace it if necessary.

Keeping Your Goodman AC Running Strong

By following these simple steps and incorporating regular maintenance into your routine, you can keep your Goodman air conditioner running efficiently and reliably throughout the summer months. A clean filter ensures optimal airflow, which translates to reduced energy consumption and a more comfortable indoor environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What happens if I don’t change my air conditioner filter?
A: A dirty air filter can lead to reduced airflow, decreased cooling efficiency, higher energy bills, and even premature wear and tear on your air conditioner.
Q: How often should I change my Goodman air conditioner filter?
A: The recommended frequency is every 1-3 months, but it’s best to check the filter regularly and replace it when it becomes visibly dirty or clogged.
Q: Can I wash my air conditioner filter?
A: Some filters are washable, but most are disposable. Check the filter packaging or your owner’s manual for instructions.
Q: What type of air filter should I use for my Goodman air conditioner?
A: Refer to your owner’s manual or the filter itself for the recommended size and type. You can choose from standard fiberglass filters, pleated filters, or high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters.
Q: What if I can’t find the right filter for my Goodman air conditioner?
A: Contact a local HVAC dealer or your Goodman dealer for assistance in finding the correct filter.