Utility costs today are skyrocketing making it even more important to maintain your AC unit properly so it consumes less energy and reduces costs. This can be accomplished by regularly changing your air filter.

Learn how to replace the air filter in your home or office AC or furnace with Air Filters Delivered. You can watch our video tutorial to see how it's done or follow our step-by-step guide in the video transcript below. We want to make learning how to replace the air filter in your house as easily as possible.

How To Replace An Air Filter In Return Air Duct

By replacing the air filter in your return air duct, you can preserve the efficiency of your HVAC system and the purity of the air inside your house. Use these actions to replace it.:

Steps to Replace an Air Filter in a Return Air Duct:

1. Turn Off the HVAC System: Switch off your HVAC unit to prevent debris from getting sucked into the system.
2. Find the Return Air Duct: Return air ducts, usually larger than supply vents, are found on walls, ceilings, or floors.
3. Open the Filter Grille: Unscrew or unclip the grille cover on the return air duct so the existing filter is accessible.
4. Remove the Old Filter: Remove the old filter. Notice the direction of the arrows indicating airflow (usually toward the duct).
5. Clean the Grille: Wipe down the grille to remove dust before installing the new filter.
6. Insert the New Filter: Place the new filter into the duct with the airflow arrows pointing in the correct direction toward the ductwork.
7. Secure the Grille: Securely reattach the grille cover using screws or clips.
8. Turn the HVAC System Back On: Restore power and ensure it operates normally.

Tips for Best Results:

• Choose the Right Filter: Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the right filter size and MERV rating for your HVAC system.
• Replace Filter Regularly: Filters should ideally be changed every 1 to 3 months.
• Inspect Filter Monthly: Check your filter regularly for dirt buildup and replace it as needed.

Your HVAC system will last longer if you follow these tips and ensure ventilation. 

How To Replace An Air Filter In a Window AC Unit

It's fairly simple to replace an air filter in a window AC unit and helps maintain the unit’s efficiency and air quality. Replace it by following these steps: 

Steps to Replace an Air Filter in a Window AC Unit:

1. Turn Off the Unit: Switch off the window AC unit and unplug it.
2. Locate the Air Filter: Most filters are found behind the front panel or grille, often at the top or bottom of the unit.
3. Remove the Front Panel: Open the panel to access the filter. This may include unscrewing or unclipping the panel, depending on your model.
4. Take Out the Old Filter: Slide or pull out the filter carefully. Note its position for reinstallation.
5. Clean the Filter (If Washable): If it's reusable, rinse it under water and use a mild detergent if needed. Let it dry completely before reinserting.
6. Replace with a New Filter (If Disposable): If the filter isn’t washable, replace it with the correct size and type specified by the manufacturer.
7. Reattach the Front Panel: Secure the grille or panel back into place, ensuring it’s aligned.
8. Turn the Unit Back On: Plug the unit back in and turn it on, checking it for normal operation.

Tips for Best Results:

• Check Regularly: Clean or replace the filter every 1-3 months.
• Use the Proper Filter: Make sure the replacement filter matches the size and type specified by your AC manufacturer.
• Clean the Unit: While the filter is out, wipe the interior and exterior of the AC unit to remove dust and debris.

Consistent filter maintenance keeps your window AC running properly, improves air quality, and ensures cooling performance.

How To Change An AC Filter In a Condo

Changing an AC filter in a condo is similar to other HVAC systems, but might have unique access points or shared system considerations. Follow these suggestions to change it:

Steps to Change an AC Filter in a Condo:

1. Turn Off the HVAC System: Shut off the system to prevent debris from being drawn into it during replacement.
2. Locate the Filter: Condo filters are usually found in a return air duct, wall-mounted vent, ceiling grille, or the HVAC unit (often in a closet or utility area).
3. Open the Filter Grille: Unclip or unscrew the grille cover or access panel to expose the filter.
4. Remove the Old Filter: Slide out the old filter, noting the airflow direction marked by arrows on the filter frame.
5. Inspect the Filter and Grille: Check the old filter for dirt and debris to gauge the replacement frequency. Wipe the grille or compartment.
6. Insert the New Filter: Place the new filter into the slot with the airflow arrows pointing toward the ductwork or HVAC unit.
7. Secure the Grille or Panel: Close and secure the grille cover or access panel to ensure proper airflow and a snug fit.
8. Turn the System Back On: Restore power to the HVAC system and ensure it’s functioning.

Tips about Condo AC Filters:

• Check Condo Rules: Some condos have centralized HVAC systems, so filter replacement might be handled by building maintenance. Ask your management team if you’re unsure.
• Use the Proper Filter: Match the size and MERV rating to your system for the best performance.
• Replace Regularly: Replace filters every 1-3 months, depending on air quality, usage, and building conditions.

Filter maintenance ensures your condo’s HVAC system operates at peak efficiency, improving air quality and extending the life of your unit. 

How to Replace Air Filter in Air Handler Cabinet

The performance of your HVAC system can be maintained and indoor air quality can be improved by changing the air filter in your air handler cabinet. To swap it out, take these actions:

Steps to Replace an Air Filter in an Air Handler Cabinet:

1. Turn Off the HVAC System: Switch off the system and disconnect power at the breaker or thermostat for safety.
2. Locate the Air Handler Cabinet: The cabinet is often in a utility room, basement, attic, or closet. The filter is usually near the return duct or blower compartment.
3. Open the Cabinet Door or Panel: Open the latches, screws, or clips on the air handler access panel. Some models have a separate filter compartment.
4. Remove the Old Filter: Slide the old filter out, noting the direction of the airflow arrows printed on the filter frame.
5. Clean the Filter Area: Use a damp cloth to remove dust or debris from the filter slot and surrounding area.
6. Insert the New Filter: Place the new filter into the slot with the airflow arrows pointing toward the blower or ductwork.
7. Secure the Cabinet Panel: Reattach the access panel or door securely to prevent air leaks.
8. Turn the System Back On: Restore power to the system and ensure it’s operating correctly.

Tips for Best Results:

• Choose the Correct Filter: Ensure the replacement filter matches the size and MERV rating the manufacturer recommends. 
• Replace Regularly: Filters should be replaced at intervals every 1-3 months.
• Inspect Monthly: Check the filter regularly for dust buildup, especially during high-usage seasons.

By replacing the air filter in your air handler cabinet as needed, you’ll enhance HVAC efficiency, improve indoor air quality, and prolong your HVAC system’s lifespan.

Why Is Replacing The Air Filter Important?

Proper maintenance of your AC and furnace will assure good air quality in your home, increase the lifespan of your system, and consume less energy, resulting in lower bills. Your filters should be changed every 30 to 90 days, depending on the type and efficiency of your filter. During peak winter and summer months, your HVAC system is operating at its highest capacity, and it's recommended that you change your air filter every month. Remember, regular maintenance of your home's cooling and heating system is essential to ensure it operates efficiently.

Additional Helpful Tips

• Choose the right size air filter. Before buying a replacement filter, check your owner's manual to identify the right number or size of your filter – it could also be printed on the side of your existing air filter. Or measure the filter yourself for accurate sizing.
• Turn off your HVAC unit. For safety, turn off your HVAC unit before attempting to change the furnace filter. If you can't figure out how to turn off the unit, turn off the breaker.

Now that you know how to change your air filter, what are you waiting for? Shop by size or build your own air filter with custom measurements today!

Other Frequently Asked Questions Related to Changing Furnace Filters

• How often should I change my air filter?

  Frequency of replacement depends on a few key factors – number of pets in a household, location, size of your home, allergies, and time of the year. Get a better estimate with our replacement guide!

• How can I improve my indoor air quality?

  Air quality can be improved through proper ventilation, frequent filter changes, and more! Get your cleanest air yet with our quick tips.

• How can I dispose of dirty air filters?

  Unsure how to dispose of your old air filters the right way? We've got you covered with a step by step process!

For any other questions, check out our helpful tips!

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