Payne heat pumps have filters that prevent dust and other particles from entering the unit. They also remove some contaminants that can harm you, so you need to clean them. But the question is, where can you find the filter location? We researched this question, and here's what we've found out.
Depending on the unit, there are two possible locations for the heat pump filter. The filter can be at the bottom for the upflow units or at the top for the downflow unit.
Finding the location of your Payne heat pump filter can be confusing and time-consuming, but it will be worth it since you need it to clean them. In this post, we've gathered more information so you can understand more about Payne heat pump filters. We also included steps on how to change them.
Payne Heat Pump Filter Location
Heat pumps are appliances that use electricity to either cool or warm the house. It provides comfort to anyone using it. However, heat pumps also need maintenance to be able to work efficiently. Filters are no exception.
Filters are one of the essential parts of most air devices. They help prevent dust and other allergens from entering the room, so cleaning them is also necessary. So, how do you find their location?
The location of the filter depends on the type of unit. There are two types of units--upflow and downflow units. The filter on most upflow units is located below the unit. On the other hand, you can find the filter at the top for the downflow unit.
Upflow vs. Downflow
If you're stuck in choosing between upflow and downflow heat pumps, here are some differences to help you decide.
Upflow Heat Pump Unit
In an upflow heat pump unit, air passes through the furnace from the bottom of the unit; that's where you can find the filter. It warms up before moving upward into the ductwork of the house. The upflow unit is more energy-efficient in places with a cooler climate since heat naturally rises.
Downflow Heat Pump Unit
With a downflow heat pump, the air flows in the heat pump unit in the opposite direction. The air travels from the top of the furnace and flows downward into the house. These units are more energy-efficient to use for houses located in hotter places.
Cleaning Your Payne Heat Pump Filter
A clean heat pump filter will make the machine work more effectively. Depending on how frequently you use your heat pump, you should clean the filter every 4 to 12 weeks.
Moreover, you don't need a professional to clean, and you can do it yourself. Here are the steps you can do to clean your heat pump filter:
- Turn off the machine and remove its lid. The hinges, frequently on the side, can be gently pulled to remove the cover.
- A small tab on most heat pump models will allow you to lift the filters up and in your direction. Lift it and remove it. Be careful so the dust will not fall on the other parts of the device.
- Clean the filter using a vacuum cleaner to suck the dust. Make sure to keep it gently because the filters are fragile.
- Clean the interior parts of the heat pump using a soft brush that fits inside the system. You can also carefully wipe them with a damp cloth.
- Using the tabs, reinstall your air filters in the heat pump. The holes will help you see whether the filters are correctly positioned. After that, reinstall the front cover, placing it appropriately using the hinges and slots as a reference.
Changing Filters On A Payne Heat Pump
If your heat pump filter is not worth cleaning, replacing them is very important. This is to prevent them from clogging, which will cause damage to the device. If you're tight on budget and don't want to hire costly maintenance service, then you can follow the steps and DIY.
Upflow Units
Here are the steps on how to change the filter on an upflow heat pump unit:
- The first step is to turn off the power of your Payne heat pump. The switch is located at the bottom of the unit, on the right side of the filter box.
- In front of the furnace, remove both access doors. Then, pull them off directly after lifting them. Lift the filter retainer wire out of the bracket by sliding it to the left.
- Remove the filter by pulling it while lifting it. Turn the dirty side up to keep the dust from falling.
- The next step is to clean the filter. You can wash them with water and mild liquid detergent. If the filter is too dirty to use, replace them with a new one.
- Reinstall the filter back. Lock it in place by sliding the filter retention wire to the right after lowering it into the bracket.
- Finally, you can turn on the power and test the heat pump.
Downflow Units
Here are the steps on how to change the filter on a downflow heat pump unit:
- Before starting the process, switching off the power is always important.
- You need to loosen the two screws securing the blower access to remove the door.
- Adjust the left-side filter's top to point to the device's right or middle. Lift the filter out of the channel it is seated in, tuck it under the blower, and remove it.
- Remove the right-side filter from the enclosed duct and lower it next to the blower. Take it out of the compartment.
- Wash the filter with water and mild liquid detergent. Be careful in washing the filter because it is fragile.
- Reverse the removal procedures to slide the filters back into position. Remember to install the right-side filter first and position them correctly. These devices have a downward or blower-directed airflow.
- Using the two screws, you removed and reinstalled the blower access door. Reconnect the power to your furnace.
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What Are The Benefits Of Keeping Your Heat Pump Maintained?
All devices, machines, and appliances will function efficiently and effectively when maintained well. Scheduling regular maintenance of your heat pump will give you the following benefits:
Functional Air Filters
Keeping a clean air filter is no joke. If you have regular maintenance on your heat pump, you will expect a functional air filter to keep the device serving its purpose.
Save Money
If you don't have a maintained heat pump, it can cost you more expensive repairs. This is one of the problems you can encounter when you're unaware of how to clean and maintain your heat pump properly.
Low Energy Cost
A well-maintained heat pump is energy-efficient and will prevent you from a high energy cost which in return costs you more money. Always keep it clean so the heat pump will not exert more effort in circulating the air.
Is The Furnace Filter The Same As The AC Filter?
The most common misconception about air filters is that the filters of the furnace and AC are different. Your heating and cooling systems use the same filters. The only difference is that they are termed depending on where they are attached.
If your filter is attached to your AC and your furnace, they are called air conditioning and furnace filters, respectively. They have different names since they are used depending on the weather.
Click here to see this AC and furnace filter on Amazon.
How Many Filters Does A Heat Pump Have?
Your heat pumps can have two air filters, permanent and temporary filters. Temporary filters are the ones that need to be replaced from time to time.
The first filter is located at the inflow side of the unit if your system includes an air handler. The return air vent contains the second filter. It is normally placed on a wall, ceiling, or floor near the thermostat.
What Happens If You Run Your HVAC Without A Filter?
Air filters are vital in trapping dust, dirt, and other allergens from entering your air conditioning system that can cause them to malfunction. So, what if you run your HVAC without a filter?
Your HVAC can still run without a filter; however, it may pose a danger to the system. Although they can run without a filter, it is still not recommended to do so because it will only cost you expensive repairs.
Final Thoughts
Heat pumps are necessary for every home since they can cool or warm your house depending on the weather. And one of the vital parts of heat pumps is the filter which prevents dust and other allergens from entering and makes the heat pump function well.
Follow the steps given on how to clean the filter mentioned above. Also, if the filter is not usable, you need to replace them.
If you find this article helpful, be sure to check out these other posts that may interest you:
Do Heat Pumps Dry Out The Air?