How to Change Your Air Filter

Even if you have little to no experience with household appliances, changing the air filter in your home's heating and air conditioning units is quite easy. It really is as simple as sliding the old one out, and putting the new filter in its place. If you are still intimidated, we have a few tips to get you started.

The exact steps in changing the air filter will vary from furnace to furnace, but there are a few simple guidelines you can follow in order to ensure safe and easy replacement of your air filters.

Always ensure that power is turned off at the main circuit breaker every time you change an air filter.

The location of your air filter depends on the type of furnace that you have.

If you have an "up-flow" furnace, the filter is located in the blower compartment. The blower compartment is behind the bottom door. If you have a "down-flow" furnace, the filter is located in the upper blower compartment. These models usually require two filters placed in the unit in a "V" shape.

If you have either an up-flow furnace or a down-flow furnace, both will be equipped with a safety switch. When replacing the furnace door after you have changed the filter, you must ensure that the door has engaged the safety switch. The furnace will not run if the safety switch is not engaged.

You may also have a horizontal furnace. Most of these models come with a rack for the filter. The rack houses the filter and slides right into the unit without the removal of panels or doors.

When installing the air filter, it is important to insert it properly. Most filters will have arrows to guide their placement in the furnace. The arrows should point in the direction of the furnace or blower motor.

If you have difficulty with the installation of a new air filter, consult the manufacturer's instructions.