At long last, Old Man Winter's icy grip on Olean and its surrounding areas has begun to melt. As it does, you’re feeling a familiar urge return whenever you drive: the temptation to crank up the speakers, roll down the window and let the spring breeze drift in. No need to hesitate! We're all ready to breathe our fill of natural air after this long winter. That makes the start of spring the ideal time to switch out your car’s cabin air filter.
As pollen, dust, and other allergens take to the sky at spring's start, you'll need a constant flow of fresh air in your cabin. The air filter that's been collecting dust in your filter box all winter long probably isn't up to the task. Thankfully, the process of swapping out your air filter is both simple and affordable. Courtesy of Rick Bokman Buick GMC Cadillac, here’s a guide detailing what you need to know.
What Does Your Air Filter Do?
Cabin air filters work to purify the air streaming into the cabin via your vehicle's HVAC systems. These filters eradicate dust, pollen, mold particles, and additional airborne debris, leaving you with clean, healthy air. Air filters enhance air purity, and thereby help create a more breathable, allergen-free driving environment. If you suffer from seasonal allergies, monitoring the condition of your cabin air filter is a must. Additionally, air filters help keep your HVAC components functioning properly, while optimizing HVAC system performance.
Having fresh, clean air at your disposal is the most basic but crucial component to safe and healthy driving, and it’s your air filter’s job to maintain that constant airflow. If you’ve been breathing stale or acrid air lately behind the wheel, a change of filters is most likely needed. Keep an eye on your windshield as well; if you find it's having a hard time maintaining visibility amidst humidity, this could be another sign you need a new filter.
When it does come time to replace your air filter, you'll discover there are multiple options at your disposal. Filter types include:
Standard Air Filters: The most common type of cabin air filter. Provides basic filtration for dust, pollen, and other particles. These filters generally cost between $20-$25, though they can be even cheaper – such as this Pureflow filter, compatible with recent GMC Sierra 1500 models.
Activated Carbon Filters: Excels at absorbing gases and other unpleasant odors. Recommended if you’re focusing on eliminating odors and trapping airborne pollutants.
HEPA Filters: Or, “High-Efficiency Particulate Air” filters. For advanced filtration, captures smaller particles and allergens. Recommended for those with bad allergies, sensitive respiratory conditions, or who simply enjoy the highest level of air purity.
How Do I Replace My Air Filter?
Once you've selected the filter type that best suits your situation, the replacement process is even simpler than you could have imagined. First, locate your air filter box (or "filter housing") and open it. Be aware that doing so may require a screwdriver or another tool. Once the box is open, the ensuing job should take but a moment.
Remove your old air filter slowly, noting the placement of how it was initially installed. Take a picture with your phone if that helps you recall the configuration, because you’ll want to mirror it when inserting the new filter. Also, take this brief opportunity to wipe away any stray dust or debris in the air filter box that may have blown off the old filter.
Next, simply replicate the placement of the old filter with the new one. Secure the air filter box once again, tightening its bolts if you had to unscrew them. Flip on the HVAC, and before you know it, your cabin will be flooded with crystal-clean air once again.
Filter Happier
If you’ve noticed reduced airflow, unpleasant odors, noises from your vents, or your windshield fogging up quickly in dense humidity, these could all be signs that your cabin air filter needs replacement. Fortunately, you now know that replacing your cabin air filter is a simple, affordable process.
If you encounter any other issues with your HVAC systems this spring, Rick Bokman Buick GMC Cadillac is the place to take your vehicle. Our experienced Service Department will handle all your car's maintenance needs, from oil changes to tires, brakes to batteries. This season, kick off spring cleaning by tending to your vehicle; you'll find it provides a breath of fresh air.
