Last month for Thanksgiving, I visited my cousin's home in Georgia, and we had a very interesting conversation. As we discussed our preparations for the upcoming New Year, she told me that she never changes the filters in her a/c unit and has never had the vents cleaned on her a/c unit or dryer. I was really surprised, considering I remind her about the importance of having the a/c vents and dryer ducts cleaned all the time. Then, this also got me thinking that maybe others forget to do this really important cleaning. So, here's how you change the a/c filter:

Step 1: Locate your a/c filter vent, usually covered by a grated door. If it is a large unit, you may have more than one filter.

Step 2: Check the old filter. (Yuck! Doesn't it look gross?) and make a note of the size and style. (Check the manufacturer's recommendation for filter type.)

Step 3: Run out and get a new filter. In fact, pick up a few to cover you for the next few months.

Step 4: Unscrew the grated door and remove the old filter. If you have a reusable filter, wash it, let it completely dry.

Step 5: Insert the new or cleaned filter according to the directional arrows on the filter.

Now make a note on your calendar to change the filters every month. To help you remember, change the filters on the 1st of the month.

Next time, we'll learn how to check to see if your a/c air duct needs to be cleaned and your dryer vents.