How to Find and Replace the Air Filter in Your Air Conditioner

Are you wondering where the air filter is located in your air conditioner? It's important to know where it is and how to replace it, as a clean filter will help your air conditioner run more efficiently. Here's a guide to help you find and replace the air filter in your air conditioner. The filter in an HVAC system usually slides into a slot above or below the unit. If you have a window AC unit, you'll find the filter at the front of the unit, just behind the grille.

For any other type of system, look for the air cleaner behind the return air grille on the wall, ceiling, or utility closet door. It's usually close to your home thermostat or right next to the air handler for your air conditioning system. The four most common categories of air conditioners are portable, window, split, and central air conditioners. From sizes to types, grades and more, here's everything you need to know about air filters.

If you have a large system with multiple air handlers and return ducts, finding the filters can be a challenge. In this case, the air filter is most likely located right next to the boiler air controller or air conditioning system. In vertical air handlers with the return air duct entering through the top of the air handler, the filter often slides into a slot above the HVAC unit. When reinserting the filter into the housing, make sure that the arrow points away from the return and toward the air handler.

Replacing your home's air conditioner filter will allow it to continue to blow cool air without interruption. An arrow on the filter frame shows which direction air should flow through it - always away from the return duct and into the air treatment mechanism. You may also want filters that don't just keep dust out of your AC unit. These filters can help reduce allergens in your home and improve indoor air quality.

Be sure to check with your HVAC technician or manufacturer for recommendations on which type of filter is best for your system.