Where do furnace filters go?

Author: Prof. Everette Murray  |  Last update: Sunday, October 26, 2025

Look for the Removable Cover: In most furnaces, the filter sits directly behind a removable access panel. ” This cover is often located at the front or side of the furnace and may be of plastic or metal construction. It can be slid and locked by use of screws or it can be slid and locked.

Does a furnace filter go in the garbage?

Put this item in your black waste cart. Lid must be completely closed. This item and all the contents of your cart will be taken to a landfill. Ensure no organics (fruit and veggie peels, coffee grounds, paper towels) go into your Black Waste Cart.

Why can't I find the filter on my furnace?

Where Is My Furnace Filter Located? You'll frequently find the air filter within the blower compartment, which is accessible through a metal door or hatch on the bottom half of the furnace. It may also be in a sliding compartment by the air handler component of your furnace or on a rack placed on the furnace's side.

What happens if the furnace filter is backwards?

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.

Is there a wrong way to put in a furnace filter?

On the new filter, find the arrow indicating the proper airflow direction. The arrow must face toward the furnace and away from the return duct that pulls the air in need of heating or cooling.

Furnace Air Filter - How to Change It Properly

Do all furnaces have a filter inside?

Do All Furnaces Have Filters? Yes, all furnaces & heat pumps have filters. If your home uses another type of heating system, like a boiler which uses water to heat the home, you will not have filters, but for a furnace or heat pump, a filter is a vital component.

How do I know if my furnace filter is clogged?

There is noticeable discolouration on the filter. You can see the buildup of dirt and dust. You find your home needs dusting frequently. It seems your HVAC system is cycling longer.

Where is my central heating filter?

The filter fits on the return pipe (the bit that brings water back into the boiler). It involves cutting away a portion of the pipe to fit the filter – this is a job for a Gas Safe registered engineer.

Can I run my furnace without filter?

Your furnace can, technically, run without a filter. However, we strongly recommend you don't run your furnace without a filter for any length of time. With air constantly moving through your furnace and your home, dust and debris can quickly build up, even in a matter of minutes.

Will my furnace shut off if filter is dirty?

If your filter becomes clogged, it can cause your furnace to shut off as a safety feature to prevent damage to the furnace. To fix this problem, simply replace your air filter on a regular basis. If you have pets, be sure to change your air filter more frequently.

Do you leave furnace filter in box?

Keep new furnace filters in their original packaging until installation. The box protects the filter material from damage, moisture, and contamination, ensuring maximum effectiveness when installed. Proper storage maintains the filter's integrity and filtration capabilities.

How much does it cost to replace a furnace filter?

On average, you can expect to pay $20 to replace your HVAC filter, with costs commonly ranging from $10 to $50 or even more. Replacing your HVAC filter is the simplest yet most effective way to keep your HVAC system healthy and working properly.

Why is my furnace not blowing hot air?

If your furnace is not blowing hot air, or is not operating at all, a component called the fan limit switch or high limit switch may have malfunctioned. You may also see an error message on your thermostat, or a blinking LED light on the furnace control board.

What does a dirty furnace filter look like?

The filter will be gray or black and bits of debris will be visible. But you may notice other changes that indicate the furnace is not operating properly.

Are furnace filter and AC filter the same?

While many people refer to air conditioning and furnace filters as if they're different, this is not the case. Your furnace and your air conditioning system use the exact same filter, so there's no need to worry about purchasing separate filters for each piece of equipment.

How to tell if your furnace filter needs to be replaced?

However, there are some signs you can look for that indicate your filter needs to be changed.
  1. Dirt and Dust Build Up On Filter. ...
  2. More Dust Than Usual In Your Home. ...
  3. The Furnace Cycles Longer Than Normal. ...
  4. Current Filter Exceeds Manufacturer's Recommendation. ...
  5. Burning Smell or Overheating.

Where is my furnace filter carrier?

However, common places filters are found can include: within a small slit on the bottom of the unit, on an external rack usually off the side of the furnace, in the ductwork as a cutout, or in the return air vents. If you are unable to locate your filter, please contact your dealer or installer.

Why is my furnace blowing cold air?

With a furnace blowing cold air, the first question you should ask is if the furnace has been turned ON. Two thermostat issues that could cause your furnace to blow cold air include (1) your thermostat is still set to COOL, not HEAT and (2) your thermostat fan is set to ON, not AUTO.

How do I change the filter in my gas furnace?

How to Change a Furnace Filter
  1. Step 1: Cut the Power to the Furnace. Make sure that you turn off your furnace at the thermostat. ...
  2. Step 2: Find the Service Panel. Locate the furnace's service panel and open or slide the door. ...
  3. Step 3: Swap Out the Filter. ...
  4. Step 4: Replace It.

What happens if I put the furnace filter in backwards?

The most common thing you will notice is the inefficiency of the filter. 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.

Can you get sick from not changing your furnace filter?

While it may seem obvious, dirty air filters are one of the main causes of poor home air quality. “If your family seems to be getting more colds or having more nasal congestion than usual, it might be a good idea to take a look at your furnace filter,” said Ear, Nose and Throat specialist, Morgan Yost, DO.

Is it possible my furnace doesn't have a filter?

So, can you run a furnace without a filter? The answer, technically, is yes. However, to keep your furnace running properly, extend its lifespan, and ensure clean indoor air, HVAC professionals always recommend installing a clean filter before turning on your furnace.

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