Are you wondering where your home air filter is located? You're not alone. Many homeowners are unaware of the exact location of their air filter, and it can be difficult to find. In this article, we'll explain where to look for your air filter and how to replace it. The air filter in your home is most likely located near the boiler air controller or air conditioning system.
This is a large metal box with a fan motor and fan inside. It's usually found in the basement, attic, or utility closet, close to the thermostat and in a return duct. If you live in a smaller space, such as an apartment, your unit may be in a closet. The air filter is usually installed horizontally (in an attic or mezzanine) or vertically (in a basement, high attic, or other area of the building).
This photo shows an air filter located between a return air chamber (pictured on the right side) and the bottom of the air handling unit. Horizontal air handlers will cause return air to enter one end of the air handling unit and supply air that exits from the other end. If you're not sure where your air controller is located, check the attic, basement, mezzanines, or garage. Look for grill panels with cables and tubes, but nothing that looks like they belong to a filter function.
After locating the first one on the air controller, you'll want to check if there's a second filter on the return vent. Knowing where air filters are normally located can help you find dirty or clogged filters that increase air conditioning or heating costs. For greater safety, disconnect the power to the unit before opening the fan compartment to check for a filter and replace it. Households that have a lot of occupants and pets will likely find that their air filters need to be replaced more often.
We recommend replacing your home's air filter every three months for optimal performance. If you're not sure how to replace it, contact a professional HVAC technician who can replace the filter on your air conditioner, clean the ducts, fix any other air conditioning problems you have, and answer all your questions. Finding and replacing your home's air filter is an important part of maintaining your HVAC system. Knowing where to look for it can help you save money on energy costs and keep your family safe from allergens and pollutants.