
To properly insert a new filter, look for the arrow! The arrow on your filter should always face the unit and away from the return air duct that carries the air that will be heated or cooled. HVAC systems push the cool or warm air out and pull spent air in, recirculating the air throughout your home.
How do you install an air conditioner filter?
Replace Air Filter in Return Air Duct
- Follow these easy steps on how to change a central air conditioner filter. ...
- Wipe the grille clean with a microfiber cloth. ...
- Insert a new filter, ensuring the correct furnace filter direction.
- Close the cover grille and secure the latch.
How do I install my air filter?
Video Transcript:
- Turn the unit off. Turning this off prevents the air from blowing dust and grit into your system.
- Open up your vent and remove the used filter.
- Make sure the Air Flow Arrows are pointing toward the HVAC Unit.
- Install the new filter and close your vent.
- Turn the unit on and you're done!
How to install an engine air filter?
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Step one. Open the hood of the car and find the engine air filter cover. ...
- Step two. Open the air filter cover and remove the old air filter (be careful when removing the cover as there may be a bundle of cables and electrical components ...
- Step three. Inspect the old engine air filter to make sure it is dirty and needs to be changed. ...
- Step four. ...
- Step five. ...
How to change your own air filter?
How to Change Your Cabin Air Filter
- Park your vehicle on a flat, dry surface and make sure the parking brake is on. ...
- Open and, often times, remove the glove box to access the cabin air filter. The owner’s manual should have detailed information on removal.
- Remove the old cabin air filter and any debris. Note the placement of the old filter. ...
- Install the new filter. ...
- Install the glove box. ...

What should the airflow arrow point towards?
The airflow arrow should point towards the furnace/blower motor to collect harmful particles before it reaches the furnace’s equipment. You can also refer to your HVAC manual for exact filter locations and installation instructions if available.
What happens if you install an air filter incorrectly?
An air filter installed incorrectly can obstruct airflow, increase strain on HVAC equipment, and cost you extra. The easiest method in determining which way the airflow arrow should point is to refer to the pre-existing filter before removing it and installing the new one in the same manner.
Which way should the air flow arrow go?
Here’s an easy way to figure out which way the air flow arrow goes: The arrow should ALWAYS point towards the return. The pleated part of the filter should be facing you when you install it and the other side, which usually consists of a metal mesh or cardboard frame should be pointed towards the return. Once you’ve properly installed your filter, ...
What does the arrow on a furnace filter mean?
If you inspect your new air filter, you may see an arrow that says, “Air Flow”. Here’s an example: When changing furnace filters many people wonder where the arrow of the filter should point towards. The arrow should always point in the direction the air is flowing. But sometimes, you may not know which way the air is flowing.
What should the arrow on a furnace filter point toward?
When you insert your new filter, the arrow should point toward the furnace. Now that you’ve learned how to properly change your air filter and made sure it’s inserted correctly, you’ll be able to fully enjoy your clean, filtered air.
Where is the filter located on my furnace?
In most instances, your filter is located near your furnace . If you need help locating your furnace or air conditioner filter, then click here. You may have a return air grille, air cleaner cabinet, or media type filter. It all depends on your type of HVAC system.
How to tell if a filter is flat or horizontal?
Hey Joe! If your filter lays flat or horizontally, you’ll still use the same idea of pointing the arrow in the direction of the airflow. If the air flows through the filter before moving into the HVAC system, then the arrow will face towards the blower. If the filter is after the system in terms of the airflow stream, then the arrow will point away from the system. Perhaps this video will help: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iVYdDifRvbg
Why is there a wire mesh on the downstream side of a filter?
The purpose of this wire mesh is to give the filter the rigidity and strength it needs to capture particles.
What does it mean when an air filter label does not have an airflow arrow?
If the label does not have an airflow arrow, it means that the model design can be installed on either side.
Why is it important to clean air filters?
Clean air filters improve your indoor air quality and minimize the wear and tear on your Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. When you insert your air filter the wrong way it won’t filter your home’s air very efficiently, which can lead to a variety of maintenance problems.
Where should the mesh be on a grill?
Hey Joe! The mesh should be on the opposite side of the grill. That way the air flows through the filter before hitting the mesh. Hope this helps!
Where should the arrow be pointed when installing an air filter?
If you install the air filter on a vertical surface, e.g., a wall, then the arrow should always be pointed toward the wall.
Where should the arrow be on an air filter?
Most air filters will have an arrow on them. The arrow should be pointing inward towards the furnace, ceiling, wall, or whatever else is covered up by the air filter.
Why do Air Filters have a Direction?
Air filters have a direction to ensure that the air is filtered correctly.
What happens if you install an air filter in the wrong direction?
If the air filter is installed in the wrong direction, it will not filter the air properly. Airflow may be stalled. In some cases, the structural integrity of the air filter may also be reduced.
Why is wire mesh used in air filters?
Filters installed in the wrong direction will also be structurally unsound. The purpose of the wire mesh is to hold the air filter’s structure as air rushes through. If it is the wrong way around, it doesn’t support the structure. Instead, it sort-of weakens the structure, which is never a good thing.
Why do you need an arrow on a furnace?
Since you want the air flowing into the furnace, you will want the arrow pointing toward the furnace. If you install it in the opposite direction, the furnace will have to work a lot harder. This can increase energy bills, resulting in excess wear and tear on the furnace.
What direction should the air filter be pointed?
If you are installing an air filter in the ceiling, you will want to ensure that the air filter’s arrow is pointed toward the ceiling.
What is the return side of an air cleaner?
This is referred to as the return side. It is on the return side that your air cleaner is installed. And as the air returns from your home it is filtered and then passes through your unit, conditioned and pushed into your living space as warm or cool air.
Does Honeywell air cleaner work on the return side?
No problem, lets get down to it. Your Honeywell air cleaner will always be installed on the return side of your system (air handler/heat pump, air handler/air conditioner, furnace, etc.) If it is not then you have a big problem. So lets assume your air cleaner is installed correctly.
