How to Locate Your Home's Air Filters

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April 5, 2022

Knowing where to locate your home's air filter is crucial to ensuring your home has healthy indoor air quality. If your home has a forced air heating or cooling system, then it has at least one air filter. This filter's job is to remove airborne particles and debris from the air inside of your home. By regularly replacing your air filters, you can enjoy a healthier, more comfortable indoor environment for your entire family.

Where Are Air Filters Located in Your House?

Your air filters are typically located near your heating or cooling system's air handler, a large metal box with a fan motor inside. Most air handlers are installed in basements, attics, or utility closets.

Once you locate your air handler, you'll want to look for a one to four-inch slot. It will either have a removable cover or a wide hinge cover. When you open the cover for that slot on your air handler, you should see an existing filter inside it. You'll want to remove the old filter and replace it with a fresh one. It's crucial that you pay attention to how you insert the new air filter. Most filters will have arrows on them to help ensure they're installed correctly. You'll want the air filter arrows to be pointing in the direction of the unit.

Check For a Second Air Filter

HVAC systems in larger homes tend to have more than one air filter. After locating the first one at your air handler, you'll want to check for a second filter at your return vent. The return vent will have a filter that 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. In some odd instances, you may find an air filter in a ceiling or floor return vent.

How Often Should My Air Filter Be Replaced?

As a general rule, aim to replace your air filter every three months. However, if you have pets or occupants with allergies, you may need to change them more frequently. A telltale sign that your air filter needs replacing is when you can no longer see through it. Ensure that you replace your dirty air filter with a new one of the same model number.

Contact Us Today

If you need assistance locating or replacing your air filters, Master Mechanical is here to help. Our experienced HVAC technicians will perform regular maintenance on your HVAC system, ensuring optimal performance and indoor air quality. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

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