Finding the filter on your air conditioning (AC) unit can be a challenge, but it's important to know where it is in order to keep your system running smoothly. The filter normally slides in a slot above or below the HVAC unit, or it can be found behind the return air grille on the wall, ceiling, or utility closet door. It's usually close to your home thermostat, in a return duct, or right next to the air handler for your AC system. In some systems, filters are located in the return air duct.
If you have a large system with multiple air handlers and return ducts, finding the filters can be tricky. But don't worry - there are a few tips and tricks you can use to locate them. First, look for an air cleaner behind the return air grille on the wall, ceiling, or utility closet door. This is usually close to your home thermostat, in a return duct, or right next to the air handler for your AC system.
This is the one that draws air from your space and returns it to the air conditioner's air handling system. If you have a large system with multiple air handlers and return ducts, finding the filters can be a challenge. Yes, the central air conditioner has a filter - in fact, most central AC units have two or more filters. These filters clean the air and ensure good air quality as the unit circulates between indoor and outdoor air.
In this photo of a slot intended to receive an AC filter in the blower unit, the filter had simply been left out and the slot had been left open, removing dirt, debris, moisture and mold from nearby basement areas. Provide AIR FILTER LOCATION: MORE examples of where and how to look for filters in an air conditioning or hot air heating system. Normally, filters are placed inside this box in a location that will filter the air before it reaches the fan itself. The filter is installed so that the arrow (and airflow) shows air moving through the filter TO the duct system (on a central air return grill) or TO THE air handler (for filters installed in the blower unit).
This is important because many filters are reinforced to prevent airflow from collapsing the filter material and leading it directly to the fan itself. Normally we would put the air cleaner on the return side, either on an intake grille or possibly your previous photo below shows a holder for an air cleaner in the return air chamber in what I consider to be the bottom of the air handler. The good news is that replacing your AC filter is a simple task once you know how to find it. Replacing the air conditioner filter in your home will allow the unit to continue to blow cool air without interruption. They will come to your house and replace the filter or explain how you can do it over the phone. Knowing where your air filters are located and that you have found them all makes it easy to inspect your air filters and change them regularly during the cooling or heating season. Be sure to find all filters, as some systems have several filters and even several types of filters installed, such as a fiberglass or pleated paper filter, a washable filter, and an electrostatic air filter. Depending on the type of filter you have, six months is the longest you should go without replacing or cleaning the filter.
