If your air conditioner filter doesn't have an airflow arrow, then make sure the wire mesh faces the blower of your HVAC system, as this this is the last surface the air touches. For any other questions concerning your home's air filter, talk to our customer service, or comment down below.
Filters Without Arrows
If you're using a filter that doesn't have an arrow but does have a mesh coating on one of its sides. The thinner or lighter side on unmarked filters always goes toward the air handler, furnace, or blower compartment. HVAC manufacturers want a free flow of air going into the air handler.
The most common problem you will face with a backwards facing filter is simple inefficiency. If your furnace is forced to blow air through the non-porous end of a filter, it will take more energy to do so. The blower will be overworked and you will pay more money for your heating.
Installing an air filter backward can damage your furnace or HVAC system, as the airflow will be decreased dramatically. A backwards filter prevents air from flowing into the furnace, which prevents air from flowing out of the furnace.
If the filter is placed in the wrong direction, the finer pores on the other side of the filter will make it difficult for air to pass through the system. When that happens, there will also be a decrease in the cooling performance of the AC.
The arrow on your air filter should point towards the blower in your HVAC unit. This ensures that the filter catches particles and debris before they enter the system, protecting the internal components from damage. Air filters are designed with different levels of filtration capabilities.
As a general rule, it is never a good idea to run your air conditioner or HVAC system without an air filter in place. Any amount of time spent doing so can lead to permanent damage and the possibility of needing expensive repairs.
These are for directing traffic in different lanes. So if you're at the traffic lights and you're turning right, you might find that the main light is red, but the right green filter arrow is also on. This means that you can't go straight on, but it is safe for you to go right.
You might wonder about the risks of running your AC without a filter, even temporarily. The simple answer is: not for long. Ideally, your AC should never operate without a filter for more than 6-8 hours. Going beyond this can negatively affect both your system's health and your home's air quality.
→ The OEM cabin air filters have arrows next to them that say “UP". Those arrows do not indicate air flow direction but merely indicate which side goes up. If you put a cabin air filter in upside down it won't be as effective and may need to be changed sooner.
It will be harder for the air to flow, which would take a toll on your system. More strain means spiked utility bills. The metal mesh can trap debris and affect the airflow and quality. It will decrease the efficiency of the air filter and reduce its durability.
When installing the air filter in the HVAC unit, ensure the arrow should always point towards the blower. This direction ensures that the air flows through the filter material correctly, thereby effectively trapping the particles.
Position the airflow arrow so that it points in the direction the air is flowing. In addition to clean air, filters also protect your HVAC system from debris and dirt buildup. The airflow arrow should point towards the furnace/blower motor to collect harmful particles before it reaches the furnace's equipment.
Make the arrows face the ceiling or wall. If your filter is on the ceiling, the arrow should face the ceiling. If your filter is on the wall, the arrow should face the wall.
Incorrect filter installation or installing the wrong filter can leave your engine open to dirt and debris. When the engine's air intake is not completely covered by a filtering element, extensive damage can occur.
After replacing the filter, you should wait at least 12 hours before running the system. If the AC is still not blowing cold air, it could signify that you have a refrigerant leak, a damaged condenser, or your entire mechanical system needs maintenance.
If you install your filter in the wrong direction, air will have a hard time flowing through the filter's material and your air handler will have to work overtime to make up for the loss of airflow. This is not only a waste of energy, but it can also possibly damage your air conditioner or heating system.
If installed backwards, the filter drier will become useless. Take care not to overheat the newly installed filter drier when using a torch for brazing a sweat-type drier to the liquid line. The brazed connections must be thoroughly cleaned and fluxed when called for.