Your air conditioner filters are usually located behind the air conditioner unit, but some models have them in the return air duct or in a separate filter housing.
Most air conditioner filters are rectangular in shape and usually 16 inches wide by 20 inches long. They are designed to fit snugly into the filter slot.
To change your air conditioner filter, turn off the power to the unit at the circuit breaker or fuse box.
Where to Find Your Air Conditioner Filter
Your air conditioner filter is typically located near the thermostat in your home in a return duct. Or, it's most likely right next to your AC system's air handler.
In a central air conditioning system, the filter may usually be found in 2 places. However, if you have a bigger home, there's a possibility that you may have more than one filter.
The air handler is a large metal box that stores the AC's fan and motor. You can typically find it inside the attic or basement. It's usually a good idea to check both places to be sure.
For another approach, see: Hvac System Maintenance Tips
Your air filter may be located in your air handler unit, which is usually in your attic, basement, or utility closet. Check your air handler and look for a small slot around 1-2 inches in size.
You can look into your attic for a slot with a removable cover. The thickness of the slot would depend upon the filter you use or your HVAC system. If you use a fiberglass filter, the slot would be 1 inch wide.
If you're asking, "Where are my HVAC filters located" and live in a house with a basement, you should check it out. If you cannot find your air filter in the attic, it might be in the basement air handler.
Your filter may be located in your return vents. These can be found on the ceiling, on a wall, or in older homes, on the floor. Return vents pull air from your home to your AC.
The next step is finding the air filter. It may be difficult to locate on some HVAC systems, but you can find it in the return air duct. Or, in layman's terms, that big metal grate on your wall, floor, ceiling, or utility closet door.
Check this out: Types of Air Filters for Hvac
Here are some common locations for HVAC air filters:
- Horizontal units: These units are frequently located in attics, basements, or garages. The filter usually fits in a slot on the air return side of the unit.
- Vertical units: These units are often located in utility closets or crawl spaces. The filter is typically located behind a grille on the bottom or front of the unit.
- Furnaces: Most furnaces have a dedicated compartment for the air filter, which is usually located near the blower motor.
- Mini-Splits: Some houses have an air conditioning head in each room. Some are wall-mounted, and some are ceiling-mounted. Check those individual units for the air filters.
Types of Air Conditioner Filters
Flat-paneled fiberglass filters are disposable and need to be replaced every two months. They have a low MERV rating, ranging between 1 and 5, making them the least effective type of air filter.
Pleated media filters are more efficient than fiberglass filters and have a MERV rating between 5 and 13. They can trap mold spores and pet dander, making them suitable for households with pets.
If you don't have pets or live alone, a pleated media filter with a MERV rating between 5 and 9 is a good choice. However, if you have pets, you should choose a filter with a MERV rating greater than 9 for better pet dander filtration.
A unique perspective: Air Filters Merv
Troubleshooting and Maintenance
You might face some problems while changing your filter, such as discovering areas that look unusual.
In the process of replacing the filter in an AC system, you might discover a few areas that look unusual.
Filter Change Issues
Filter change issues can be frustrating, especially if you're not prepared. You might discover a few areas that look unusual while replacing the filter in an AC system.
In the process of replacing the filter, you might encounter some problems. One of the issues you may face is discovering areas that look unusual.
Replacing the filter can be a straightforward process, but it's not uncommon to encounter some unexpected issues. Problems you may face changing your filter can be a challenge to overcome.
If this caught your attention, see: Replacing Air Filters in Home
Check Again
Checking your air filter regularly is crucial, and it's not just about the one at your air handler. Schedule interim checks to see how your air filter is doing and get an estimate as to when you need to replace it.
You can change your filter anywhere between 30 to 90 days, depending on your home's conditions. Mark the next date of replacement on your calendar to stay on track.
Don't forget to check for a second air filter at your return vent, which will be much larger than your normal vents. It can have a rectangular or square shape and will most likely be located in the wall, or sometimes in a ceiling or floor return vent.
A fresh viewpoint: Aircon Vent Open or Closed
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know what filter my AC uses?
Check the side of your air filter for the size, usually listed as length, width, and depth in inches. This will help you find the correct replacement filter for your AC system
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