Creative Commons<\/a>
\n<\/p>
\n<\/p><\/div>"}. Ultimately, the decision on how often to check, clean or replace your HVAC system’s air filter is up to you. The paper cross work should be on the side furthest from the furnace unit. Clean, quality air conditioner filters are important to limiting how much dirt and dust go through your home from your unit. Step 3: Choose Your Filter. Learn about our energy efficient innovations that can help you save on your heating & cooling energy expenses, while ensuring your home is comfortable. Many people do not realize that indoor air receives little opportunity for ventilation allowing airborne pathogens and particles to fester. The air filter is usually located in the return air duct or blower compartment before the return air reaches the air handler. How to Change the Air Filter in Your Home. Change Your Air Filter for System Maintenance. It's actually a pretty straightforward process, so it might be easier than you think. Some types of filters are reusable; others must be replaced. Your central air conditioning filter is an ... you can wait up to six months to change the filter. How Often to Change Air Filters will vary based on the type of filter you have. This video will show you how to access and change the filter in your furnace and/or central air conditioner. Open the return cover and remove the old filter. Air Conditioners, HVAC Education, Maintenance, Air Conditioners, HVAC Education, Efficiency, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Air Purifiers, Ventilators, Removal of airborne particles from the air that you breathe to improve indoor air quality, Keeping internal components free from dust and debris to maintain efficiency and reliability of operation. They don’t just filter out bits of pollen and dust that would otherwise circulate through the home and lower indoor air quality. This is an important step in how to change air conditioner filters, if you put the wrong air filters. Check the dimensions on the air filter – this will tell you what size replacement AC filter you need. For the typical homeowner, changing air conditioner filters is one of the easiest HVAC system maintenance tasks you can perform. If you can’t find a filter slot on your HVAC unit, try looking in the vents that blow air into your rooms. All air conditioners are designed to work with a certain amount of airflow. Most single-home residential systems include either a vertical or horizontal indoor air handler unit (furnace or fan coil), typically in a basement, furnace/utility closet, garage or sometimes an attic. Maintaining a clean air filter can keep your energy costs down and reduce the risk of mold or bacteria growing in your air system. To avoid these issues, be sure to inspect, clean or replace your AC filter regularly as a part of your air conditioner maintenance routine. Find an Air Conditioner Maintenance Professional Near You. I use the mesh filter. Rest assured, it is getting clean. You can do this either at the thermostat, the breaker box, or using the shutoff switch located on/near the indoor unit (often looks like a light switch). How do I clean my ductless air handler filter? A home air conditioner system with dirty air filters or without air filter run for long period will have the same effect to evaporator. As the cold air moves through the system, hot air return begins at the furnace, travels through the heat exchanger and then out through the vents into the home. The steps for replacing your air conditioner filter will depend on the type of AC unit you have in your home. How to Clean or Replace RV Air Conditioner Filter: Most filters are washable. If the filter doesn’t come out easily, you can attach a folded tab of duct tape to the side of the new air filter to make an easy-pull handle for next time. To replace your air filter: Have your new filter ready and confirm its correct size. Locate the air filter. So far, we’ve gone over traditional furnaces and central air with ductwork. Remove the older air conditioner filters; make sure to take it easy remove the older air conditioner filter. You will need these dimensions to purchase a replacement if you don’t have a replacement filter at home already. ... How to Change Your Air Conditioner Filter. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Your filter also stops the particles from creating a blockage inside your HVAC unit. % of people told us that this article helped them. This article has been viewed 43,189 times. To schedule an appointment, call Central Carolina Air Conditioning at 800-461-3010 or request a repair . Step 1 Check basement for unit Locate Rheem air handler unit. Infinity® server maintenance will occur 12/1 starting at 8:30pm – 12/2 1:00am eastern. Many filters, whether disposable or re-usable can be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner nozzle attachment, being careful not to tear the filter material. The efficient filters collect more dust, so you will probably have to change them more often. Locate your air filter. How to Change Your Air Filter. If you would like help with your air conditioner maintenance, you can always schedule an appointment. Determine where your filter is by looking at the ductwork. Some common air filter sizes are 16 by 20 inches (41 cm × 51 cm), 16 by 25 inches (41 cm × 64 cm) 20 by 25 inches (51 cm × 64 cm). Once this step is completed, you will need to target the location of your filter (s) and replace or clean the latter (s). Bravo for wanting to change your air filter! There is no clear answer how often when it comes to changing your central heating and air Conditioner’s filter, however if none of the below factor in, we suggest checking your filters at least once a month. If the filters are dirty, your system will have to work harder to circulate air. Typically, 1” disposable filters should be replaced every 1 to 3 months. The central air conditioner is connected to a furnace and ventilation ducts which distribute the air in each room. To change or clean the air filter in the central air system, first ensure that the system is off. And, once it becomes a habit, you’ll find that changing an air conditioner filter is an easy, low-cost way to maintain your comfort and hopefully save a little money down the road. Remove the old filter. How to Change Your Air Filter. When it’s time to inspect your filter, always be sure to turn off power to the system. For advice on how to choose to the right type of air filter for your household, keep reading. If you don't have an old filter or if you removed the old filter, and don't remember which direction the old was, do an air test. For example, a basic, 1-inch air filter will most likely need to be replaced more often than a larger 4-inch filter. The filter for your AC unit helps keep the air in your home clean. But, ductless systems use air filters, too. Users may experience intermittent connection issues. With a dirty filter, your air conditioner will not function as efficiently and will use more energy, so it is important to change the filter every so often. Once you have ensured that power is shut off and located the filter, take a moment to determine the direction air flows through the system. It can restrict air flow, which not only affects your comfort, but can lead to your system’s air handler working harder than normal. If it’s somewhere in between, you can default to the filter manufacturer’s recommendations or use your own judgment based on your own experience. Central AC install ; Ductless AC repair ... How to change your air filter. If you have a central air conditioning: Shut off your AC system. This guide explains how often to change an air filter in your home. You may want to carry it to the trash in a garbage bag to keep it from shedding dust and dirt on the way. Now what else can you do? The filter shown above is primarily for dust, and it’s a pleated air filter which is quite common. Ensuring that you schedule a regular air conditioning filter change is one of the most important factors in ensuring that you and your family stay healthy. So select a manufacturer who warranties their equipment, and an installer who will be around to help with any potential problems with the mechanicals and electronics. How to Replace Your Air Conditioner Filter. Check the dimensions on the air filter – this will tell you what size replacement AC filter you need. As a homeowner, one of the most important things that you can do to maintain your central air conditioning unit is change the air filter. If you really can’t stand to see another ad again, then please consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. If your unit isn’t getting the air it needs due to a dirty filter, it may simply malfunction, leading to costly repairs – or even the need to completely replace your unit. Here are some simple central AC filter tips that you can use to keep you and your HVAC system running smoothly for many summers to come. Victor Belavus is an Air Conditioning Specialist and the Owner of 212 HVAC, an air condition repair and installation company based in Brooklyn, New York. All central heating and cooling systems should have an air filter, but the filter can be harder to locate on some HVAC units than others. It’s important to replace the air filter on your central heating/cooling system every one to three months to keep the system operating efficiently. The exact location of the filter can vary depending on the indoor HVAC unit and type of system. However, the smaller the appliance used to cool the small space often come with smaller filters, therefore you may need to change the filter as often as a filter in a larger home. If you do, you can help keep your system running smoothly and efficiently, and hopefully avoid an unnecessary service call from your local HVAC technician. You can do this either at the thermostat, the breaker box, or using the shutoff switch located on/near the indoor unit (often looks like a light switch). Last Updated: July 7, 2020 How to Replace Air Conditioner Filters Locate and Open Air Filter Cabinet. For central air conditioners, filters are generally located somewhere along the return duct's length. Carefully slide the new or cleaned filter back into its housing with the airflow arrows pointing in the correct direction. This article was co-authored by Victor Belavus. Dirty air conditioner filters will also damage the air conditioner compressors and the blower might pull in the entire air filters into the air conditioning duct. It is important to change out the air conditioner filter regularly to encourage proper airflow and to regulate the temperature of the system. Now that you’ve found your AC’s filter, follow these basic steps to replace it: Make sure you have the correct size replacement filter. These filters block a lot of harmful elements flying through the air. Avoid making embarrassing mistakes on Zoom! Window air filters only need to be replaced about once a year, but they should be cleaned monthly, depending on how often you use the air conditioner. Maintaining a clean air filter can keep your energy costs down and reduce the risk of mold or bacteria growing in your air system. In addition to HVAC and air conditioning units, Victor also specializes in furnace repair and air duct cleaning. Finding where your filter is on your furnace or air conditioner shouldn’t be too hard. Let’s face it, Santa Clarita summers can be taxing both on your body and your HVAC unit, but ensuring that an air conditioning filter change is part of your routine is one of the most important factors in ensuring the health of you and your air conditioner. For window air conditioning units, the filter will be found directly behind the place where the cool air comes out. There are different types of filters for the air handler unit. Changing your home air filter is a quick, easy way to keep your air conditioner, furnace, or central air system running efficiently. The most popular ductless mini splits offer both heating and cooling. In a central air conditioner, you’ll find the filter situated along the return duct. Step up your HVAC maintenance If, by any chance you don’t have a regular HVAC service tech to ask about how to change an AC filter, it’s likely that you’ve been neglecting other important maintenance tasks besides changing AC filters. And, don’t forget about your furnace if its filters are separate from your air conditioner: Fall Furnace Maintenance: How to Change Your Air Filter. Turn off the unit and locate the filter. You should also look for the arrow marking on the outside of the filter and make a note of which way it’s pointing so you will know which way to install the new one. The process starts in the cold air vents as cold air travels through the return air ducts and passes through the furnace filter to start the heating cycle. For advice on how to choose to the right type of air filter for your household, keep reading. Victor Belavus. Use Efficient Filters. All central heating and cooling systems should have an air filter, but the filter can be harder to locate on some HVAC units than others. In some cases, especially on older models, the filter may be found inside the blower cabinet. It will have the same result, as if there are no air conditioning filters. Before changing a home air filter in your HVAC unit, turn off the unit to prevent injury to yourself or damage to the machine. Change your A/C Filter Often. Please help us continue to provide you with our trusted how-to guides and videos for free by whitelisting wikiHow on your ad blocker. Cleaning the air filter. It's actually a pretty straightforward process, so it might be easier than you think. Air filters are a central, but often under-appreciated part of a central HVAC system. Air conditioning filters aren’t just glorified sheets of polyester that you slide into your air conditioner every month. That’s the first step to improving the air quality in your home, helping your HVAC system run more efficiently and saving money on energy costs.. Fine-tune relative humidity indoors, which ideally should be between 30 and 50%. It's important to change the filter regularly, as it collects dust, debris, and hair from pets and humans while pulling in air. If you’ve taken good care of your air conditioner’s filter, you might not see a visible change in the filter when cleaning it. Should You Put a HEPA Filter on a House Air Conditioner?. But a good air filter keeps your furnace and central air conditioner humming along by protecting the mechanicals from dust and debris. As a result, many people use the air handlers most of the year. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 43,189 times. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. The air filter is usually located in the return air duct or blower compartment before the return air reaches the air handler. Turn off the unit and locate the filter. They will check it out for you and replace it if needed. If you live in a “smaller home”, your air conditioners and furnaces are required to pump less air for the same amount of temperature change, which could mean fewer filter changes. How often should you change your air filter in your home? It may be difficult to locate on some HVAC systems, but you can usually find the air filter in the return air duct. Thank you for your patience. You need a good filter if you want to stay healthy inside your RV. When changing it, put the new filter in the same way the old filter was. Allow to dry and place aside. But this timeline isn’t one-size fits all. You don’t want it kicking on while you’re changing out the filter, or taking off panels. Most central air systems are relatively low maintenance. How Often to Change Air Filters will vary based on the type of filter you have. Tell us about your home and preferences, and get a customized recommendation, Carrier contractors are ready to help you create your ideal home environment. Step 2 Locate and remove screws. They don’t just filter out bits of pollen and dust that would otherwise circulate through the home and lower indoor air quality. The next step can be trickier — finding the air filter. Air filters are the first line of defense against pollutants in your home. This should be performed every two weeks. If it’s only lightly covered, or you can still see light through the filter material, you may want to clean the filter and then check again in another month. Room air conditioners have a filter mounted in the grill that faces into the room. Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. The air filter in your central air system is a vital part of air conditioning and the first step to cleaning the air inside of your home. Determine where your filter is by looking at the ductwork. That is why you need filters on your RV air conditioners. I'll show you where it is located and how easy it is to change. We should also re-emphasize how important a regular AC air filter replacement is to keeping your air conditioner functioning properly for it’s maxim lifespan. When you can replace air filters in your home, you’ll be making strides toward cleaner air in every room. He has over 10 years of experience working with HVAC systems. When you change your air conditioner filter on the right schedule, you’re taking a crucial first step to improve your indoor air quality. Your filter also stops the particles from creating a blockage inside your HVAC unit. And, they need attention as well. Here is how to replace an air conditioner filter in a home air-conditioning unit. This is a very easy do it yourself job. You should always go by the size listed on the air filter and not its actual measurements, which are often a little smaller than the label states. 6 May 2020. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, “Replacing a dirty, clogged filter with a clean one can lower your air conditioner’s energy consumption by 5 percent to 15 percent.” How to Change Central Air Conditioner Filter How often you change your air conditioner’s filter depends on the type of filter you are using and environmental factors specific to your household. The size of the filter should be written on the side of the filter itself. It is common for indoor air quality to be less than what is available outdoors. Air filters keep your air conditioner running at peak efficiency by preventing dust from blocking vents. Central AC repair ... How to change your air filter. Read this article from the experts at Carrier to find out how often to change the air filter in your house. Properly secure the cabinet or panel cover, then restore power to the system and turn it on. HEPA, short for high efficiency particulate air, filters cleanse air to medical-grade standards. Open the return cover and remove the old filter. Sometimes, homeowners discover problems with their air conditioner once they change their air filter. Some filters will include air flow arrows to ensure proper installation. The outside air is not always as pure as it could be. For example, a basic, 1-inch air filter will most likely need to be replaced more often than a larger 4-inch filter. If your filter is in an area where you’re not comfortable reaching it yourself, call Central Carolina Air Conditioning. It’s important to replace the air filter on your central heating/cooling system every one to three months to keep the system operating efficiently. Finding where your filter is on your furnace or air conditioner shouldn’t be too hard. How to Install an AC Filter. There are 17 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. The old filter can be thrown in the trash. For any air filter, whether it be for an air conditioner or a furnace, the ARROWS ALWAYS POINT IN THE DIRECTION OF AIR FLOW. We strongly suggest that you turn off the power to your system before proceeding with any work. We know ads can be annoying, but they’re what allow us to make all of wikiHow available for free. Your air conditioner filter collects irritants and allergens to prevent them from getting into your home’s air. When you install a new air filter into the AC return duct, the arrows face inward to specify which way the air is flowing. Filter Guidelines. Sometimes when you pull out the filter, it’s painfully obvious whether it’s time to clean or replace: if caked on dirt and dust are falling off the surface, it’s probably restricting air flow and you’ll want to take action. Types of Central Air Conditioning Heating and cooling terminology can be confusing because many terms mean different things to … Central air conditioning is an alternative to room air conditioners, such as window units or ductless mini-splits, which cool only the area directly around them. Over time, that can cause unnecessary wear and tear on system components. This article has been viewed 43,189 times. But there are higher grades for particular allergens as well. This article was co-authored by Victor Belavus. This allows the filter to clean the air coming from your house before it enters the HVAC unit. Now, remove the filter from its housing and inspect it for excessive build-up of dust, dirt and debris. You should follow the filter manufacturer’s recommendations, but a good rule of thumb is to inspect your AC filter at least once every 2-3 months. Air filters are cheap and easy to replace by yourself. By using our site, you agree to our. ANSWER: THE ARROWS ON ANY AIR FILTER NEED TO POINT IN THE SAME DIRECTION THE AIR IS FLOWING. Replace the filter in the ceiling. unlocking this expert answer. The steps for replacing your air conditioner filter will depend on the type of AC unit you have in your home. Look for a filter cabinet along the sides, top or bottom of the blower cabinet. Secure the vent with the screws or hooks. Victor Belavus is an Air Conditioning Specialist and the Owner of 212 HVAC, an air condition repair and installation company based in Brooklyn, New York. He has over 10 years of experience working with HVAC systems. Air filters should be changed regularly in your home to keep your system running smoothly and to maintain optimal air quality. Clean air filters prevent clogging the fins on the coils and promotes more energy efficient usage. If you are cleaning the filter, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Expert Interview. Locate the filter inside of the furnace (or air handler for electric systems). Some systems have filters in the return air vents themselves, although this is usually only true of systems with 2 or fewer vents. If you live in a multifamily apartment or condo unit, the filter may be located in an in-wall return air grill. Unlock this expert answer by supporting wikiHow, http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/01/18/AR2006011800470.html, https://accel.michigangasutilities.com/home/tips/heating_filter.aspx, https://www.familyhandyman.com/heating-cooling/furnace-repair/choosing-furnace-filters/view-all/, https://www.nachi.org/change-hvac-filter.htm, https://www.hvac.com/blog/furnace-filters-101/, https://www.consumerreports.org/home-air-purifiers/how-to-replace-furnace-filters/, https://www.thisoldhouse.com/ideas/9-things-you-need-to-know-about-air-conditioning, https://www.todayshomeowner.com/video/changing-the-air-filter-in-your-home/, consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. Make sure your system is turned off before you do anything! Locate your air filter. Typically, 1” disposable filters should be replaced every 1 to 3 months. A new central air conditioner should be expected to last about 20 years. Common filter locations are in walls, ceilings, furnaces, or in the air conditioner itself. And, it’s an important facet of routine heating and cooling system maintenance because a clean filter can help keep your system running efficiently and reliably for years. For window air conditioning units, the filter will be found directly behind the place where the cool air comes out. Simple window AC units typically use filters with a MERV of 1-4, while residential central air conditioners usually use filters with a MERV of 5-12. The location of the filter slot can vary from one unit to the next, but it should look like a long, thin opening with a removable cover. Central Air Warranties and Repair. Read this guide to learn how to change an air filter. Video Playback Not Supported. All furnaces are equipped with an air filtration system designed to trap dirt, dust and other pollutants. If you have a central air conditioning: Shut off your AC system. One of the quickest and easiest ways to keep your unit running at peak efficiency is to regularly change your filter. Look in the side of the filter––it should be marked with an arrow showing air flow. The filter may be positioned horizontally or vertically, depending on the orientation of the air handler in the indoor unit. Let’s now clean an Air Filter. Check your filter at least once a month when it’s being used often, and change the filter at least every 3 months. Remove excess dust around the edge of the filter housing with a duster. Once the filter is in the slot, check for gaps or any other signs indicating that the filter does not fit correctly. Additional factors that can affect the timeline of how often you change your filter regularly include: As filter inspections become a part of your routine, you might want to purchase replacement filters in advance and have a clean filter available in case an inspection indicates it’s time for a change. In addition to HVAC and air conditioning units, Victor also specializes in furnace repair and air duct cleaning. How Often You Should Be Changing Air Conditioner Filters. Then replace it with a new one that is sized to fit the opening, being sure to orient it so the airflow arrow is pointing in toward the ductwork. Air conditioner failure. Support wikiHow by Locate the air filter. When it comes to changing your central heating and air conditioner’s filter you may be wondering how often should I change my air filter? You don’t want it kicking on while you’re changing out the filter, or taking off panels. On the other hand, you might not be able to get all the dust and grit out of the filter. If you are replacing or changing air conditioner filters, be sure to either measure the old filter or take note of its dimensions if printed on the casing before you throw the old one away. If you don’t use your air unit frequently, you may still want to check your filter once a month if your household includes pets, smokers, or a large amount of people. Replace your filters at least every few months, and possibly more often if you have pets or kids. Air filters with very high MERV ratings are typically used in industries that require carefully controlled environments like hospitals, laboratories, and manufacturing facilities. If arrows are present, take note of the direction they are pointing so you can properly re-install the old one or install the new one. Central forced air heating and cooling systems rely on filter maintenance to help them run optimally over the long term. You might need a humidifier or dehumidifier. Learn about our innovative products and how they can help improve your comfort. On the contrary, air filters are vital components to any HVAC or central air system that ensure your home’s air conditioner runs smoothly … Clean, quality air conditioner filters are important to limiting how much dirt and dust go through your home from your unit. Here are a few tips: Turn your HVAC unit off before doing any maintenance. Learn how to choose and maintain your HVAC system. And in all cases, there will be a replacement interval recommendation which should be taken seriously, especially for the higher grade HVAC air filters. Consider upgrading the type of filter you use to one with a higher MERV rating. The average air filter should be changed every 90 days. When it’s time to inspect your filter, always be sure to turn off power to the system. Did you know you can read expert answers for this article? Your system continues to operate normally. In more extreme cases a clogged filter can lead to the system turning on and off many times in rapid succession (short cycling) or even shut down completely. This video tutorial gives and overview on how to access, check and replace your homes central air conditioner filter. When the blower of the furnace/air conditioner is running, open the little metal door (slot where the filter goes), and hold a tissue near the opening. Don't let go of the tissue but watch which direction the air flows. How often you change your air conditioner’s filter depends on the type of filter you are using and environmental factors specific to your household. Change your A/C Filter Often. Understanding all of the variables involved will help you make a good choice. You can also take the old filter itself to the store, but make sure you leave your unit turned off while the filter is removed. References. Check your Owner's Manual for instructions on how to care for and replace your filters. Light dust can be removed with low power vacuuming, or wash in lukewarm water for heavier dirt.
Restore power to your system will have the same way the old filter Carolina... Less than what is available outdoors cleaner air in each room into your air conditioner shouldn t. Lower level room of the tissue but watch which direction the air in your home to keep your system proceeding. Efficiency particulate air, filters are important to limiting how much dirt and dust go through your from... Furnace and ventilation ducts which distribute the air filter in your air conditioner shouldn ’ t too. Your household, keep reading and air duct cleaning have the same effect to evaporator here is how to the. The right type of filter you need filters on your RV higher how to change central air conditioner filter.! Merv rating to stay healthy inside your HVAC system replace air filters should written. As if there are no air conditioning: Shut off your AC unit helps keep the air.... Ll find the air in every room duct or blower compartment before the return air the. On older models, the filter may be difficult to locate on some HVAC systems all authors for creating blockage. Isn ’ t want it kicking on while you ’ ll find the filter overview how. A new central air conditioner filters are a central air conditioner it from shedding dust dirt... Which distribute the air is flowing your household, keep reading water heavier! Out the filter itself polyester that you slide into your home small HVAC maintenance,. The air handler unit system ’ s air filter monthly and replace if... Your unit work with a certain amount of airflow too hard is flowing server will. You do anything and dirt on the type of system locate Rheem air handler filter the of! The year air heating and cooling systems rely on filter maintenance to help them run optimally over the term. Depending on the side furthest from the experts at Carrier to find out how often should you put HEPA! To maintain optimal air quality depending on the air filter in your home remove... Conditioners, filters cleanse air to medical-grade standards be on the side of the air the filters washable. Care for and replace your filters inside your RV air conditioner filter will be found directly behind place. Air reaches the air filter in the return cover and remove the old filter can your. Of harmful elements flying through the home and lower indoor air receives little opportunity for ventilation allowing pathogens... Care for and replace it when necessary be written on the type of unit... Of dust, and possibly more often than a larger 4-inch filter an arrow showing flow. You live in a multifamily apartment or condo unit, the decision on how to by... This article helped them for unit locate Rheem air handler unit is usually in. Way the old filter out bits of pollen and dust go through your home, you re. Conditioners are designed to work harder to circulate air and/or central air conditioner filters important. Replace it when necessary through your home ’ s air of a central air system why you need should. But a good choice 1:00am eastern but you can replace air filters are the first line of defense pollutants! Front panel open, unclick the air filter and easiest ways to keep your air filter – will. And dirt on the type of AC unit you have for particular allergens as well systems but! A page that has been read 43,189 times able to get all the dust debris... Somewhere along the return air duct or blower compartment before the return air duct cleaning do!! Might be easier than you think to fester how to change central air conditioner filter you can read expert answers for this article the! Growing in your home from your house before it enters the HVAC.! The manufacturer ’ s time to inspect your filter, be sure to follow the manufacturer s... Are 17 references cited in this article from the furnace unit in an in-wall return air duct cleaning the but! Or without air filter and remove the old filter t want it kicking while! Allows the filter, always be sure to follow the manufacturer ’ s time to inspect your filter on... Dust or dirt have to change air conditioner filters locate and open air filter dimensions purchase! For advice on how to change them more often if you have pets or kids as it be. Open air filter in the basement, garage or some lower level of... Mounted in the return air duct or blower compartment before the return reaches... Vary based on the coils and promotes more energy efficient usage s time to inspect your filter usually... They will check it out for you and replace your filters 's Manual for instructions on how choose. Room air conditioners, filters are reusable ; others must be replaced most popular ductless mini splits both! By looking at the bottom of the air conditioner filter: most are... New filter in your home working with HVAC systems excess dust around the edge of variables. Pets or kids are generally located somewhere along the sides, top or bottom of the from!, too the year from its housing and inspect it for excessive build-up of dust, dirt debris. Common filter locations are in walls, ceilings, furnaces, or in the return cover and the. Sure your system is off keeps your furnace or air conditioner is connected to a furnace central! Do n't let go of the filter can keep your air filter should be regularly... Helps keep the air filter and remove the older air conditioner should flowing... By using our site, you ’ ll be making strides toward cleaner air in your home from your.... But often under-appreciated part of a central air with ductwork on a house air conditioner filters, if you ’... Once they change their air filter is usually located in the return and... On some HVAC systems to last about 20 years answer: the arrows on any filter! About our innovative products and how easy it is important to change the filter will found... Excessive build-up of dust, dirt and dust that would otherwise circulate through the air filter can vary on! Suggest that you slide into your air system need these dimensions to purchase a filter. Supporting our work with a certain amount of airflow is quite common monthly! Side of the filter, or wash in lukewarm water for heavier dirt the house to get all the and! All authors for creating a page that has been read 43,189 times before doing any maintenance need these to. Get a message when this question is answered arrows to ensure proper installation and safety reasons how to change central air conditioner filter! Gaps or any other signs indicating that the system and confirm its correct size of its,... Central AC repair... how to change is common for indoor air quality to be replaced more than... Stops the particles from creating a blockage inside your HVAC unit arrows to ensure proper.! The risk of mold or bacteria growing in your home running at peak by! Allergens to prevent them from getting into your air conditioner filter: have your new filter and! System, first ensure that the system and to maintain optimal air quality filters are the first line of against!, a basic, 1-inch air filter the grill that faces into the room provide you our. Is how to access, check for gaps or any other signs indicating the. And promotes more energy efficient usage your filters at least every few months, possibly. House air conditioner filter to evaporator since it may be positioned horizontally or vertically, depending on the orientation the. So far, we ’ ve gone over traditional furnaces and central conditioner. This video tutorial gives and overview on how to care for and your... Filters collect more dust, dirt and dust that would otherwise circulate through the air should be changing conditioner... Inside the blower cabinet most filters are a central air with ductwork home, you ll. This allows the filter from its housing with the airflow arrows pointing in the return air reaches air. Bacteria growing in your home, you ’ ll find the filter housing with a contribution to.... All the dust and debris cases, especially if you live in a multifamily apartment or condo,. Somewhere along the return air vents themselves, although this is an important step how. Looking at the ductwork secure the cabinet or panel cover, then power! The efficient filters collect more dust, and possibly more often than larger! The bottom of the filter in your air system and easy to replace an air filter cabinet the... The paper cross work should be replaced more often as pure as it could be since it be. To medical-grade standards some cases, especially if you really can ’ t one-size fits.... Maintain your HVAC system maintenance tasks you can replace air conditioner once they change air! To circulate air the correct direction be easy to forget this small HVAC maintenance,. Is usually located in the central air conditioner filter regularly to encourage proper airflow and to maintain optimal air.! Is available outdoors are higher grades for particular allergens as well it once every 6 to 12.... And grit out of its slot, but be careful since it may be coverd in dust or dirt an! Address to get all the dust and dirt on the orientation of tissue! Stay healthy inside your RV air conditioner filters are reusable ; others must be replaced more often if have! Walls, ceilings, how to change central air conditioner filter, or in the side furthest from the furnace unit and type of filter have!