Where is the filter on a carrier AC unit?

Author: Ms. Roma Jacobi DVM  |  Last update: Thursday, November 13, 2025

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.

Do carrier air conditioners have filters?

Most air conditioners feature a mesh filter that cleans the air as it passes through it, catching dirt, dust, pollen and other allergens and pollutants. Carrier Air's hi-wall split system air conditioners actually have double filters and an advanced two-step filtration process.

How often do you change the filter in a carrier air conditioner?

Some should be replaced every 30 to 60 days. Others might last 6 months to a year. The answer depends on factors such as how often you use the system, the type of filter, whether there are any pets in the home, and your personal habits such as having smokers in the house, use of a wood-burning fireplace, and more.

What happens if you don t change your air conditioner filter?

If you don't change your air filter, it can quickly become clogged with dust and debris, preventing proper air filtration. This leads to a variety of issues for your HVAC system including system inefficiency, higher energy bills, inadequate air quality, and ultimately failure.

How to find carrier air filter size?

To determine the size of your current filter, look for the sizing information printed on the side of the filter. Once you have determined the size of your current air filter, there are various options to buy replacement filters, including: Contact your local Carrier expert (dealer).

Clean Your Home AC Without Removing The Coil From Your Air Handler

How to clean air filter in carrier AC?

If you want to know how to clean filter in Carrier AC, all you need to do is;
  1. Simply pull off the front panel of the machine, remove the air filters, then shake, hoover, or brush out any dirt.
  2. If the dust filters are clogged with tough grit or grime, you can wash them in warm water with a little detergent.

How do I know if my AC has a filter?

All central heating and cooling systems should have an air filter, but some HVAC units make filters harder to locate. The filter is commonly located in a return air grille, within the air handler, or external to the air handler in a filter rack.

How does a carrier AC self clean work?

Airborne bacteria use the moisture on the indoor heat exchanger to grow. Regular drying of the exchanger prevents this growth. By simply pressing the SELF CLEAN button, the system will automatically manage the process. This cleaning action may be done as frequently as desired.

Is there a filter on my outside AC unit?

Tip: If you're looking to replace your outside AC unit filter, the filter location varies depending on the unit. However, it can usually be found along the air conditioner return duct.

Why is AC not blowing cold air?

First, check your filters and coils for dirt and debris that may be impeding airflow. Once you've cleaned the filters and coils, run the air conditioner with just the fan so that the ice accumulation can melt off. If the AC still doesn't blow cold air, it could be that refrigerant levels are too low.

Where can I find my air conditioner filter?

Air filters are commonly located between the return duct and the air handler. If you still have not found your air filter or furnace filter, look between the return duct and the air handler. The air handler is a large metal box that houses the fan and its motor.

Where is the air filter on a package unit?

Packaged Systems: Packaged systems combine heating and cooling into one outdoor unit. The filter is usually located behind a removable panel on the exterior of the system. Homes with Multiple Returns: Some homes have multiple return air grilles, each with its filter.

Where is the AC cabin filter located?

In most cars, the cabin air filter sits behind the glovebox. You might able to access it yourself by removing the glovebox from the fasteners that hold it in place. If this is the case, your owner's manual should provide guidance on how to remove the glovebox.

How do I know if my AC filter is clogged?

6 Telltale Signs It's Time to Replace Your AC Filter
  1. Accumulation of Dust Around the Air Vents. When an air filter clogs, it releases dust and dirt into the system. ...
  2. Strange Odor. ...
  3. Sudden Hike in Electricity Bills. ...
  4. Overheating AC Unit. ...
  5. Allergies. ...
  6. Malfunctioning AC.

Is the AC filter inside or outside?

Your filter may be located in your return vents. These can be found on the ceiling, on a wall, or in older homes, on the floor. Return vents pull air from your home to your AC. The easiest way to determine a return vent is to place a thin piece of paper or tissue in front of it.

Does a carrier air conditioner have a filter?

Look for a filter cabinet along the sides, top or bottom of the blower cabinet. The filter may be positioned horizontally or vertically, depending on the orientation of the air handler in the indoor unit. In some cases, especially on older models, the filter may be found inside the blower cabinet.

How do you clean a carrier AC unit?

These are the steps that your Carrier expert may complete:
  1. Turn the fan coil unit off and wait until it has cooled down.
  2. Remove the panel.
  3. Use a brush head on a vacuum cleaner to remove dust.
  4. Use a dry cloth to clean the casing.
  5. Replace the panel when finished cleaning the coils.

Where can I find my AC filter size?

If you have the model number, you can figure out the dimensions. If your HVAC system uses a whole house filter (they are near your central furnace or AC unit) the model number will most likely be listed, not the dimensions. You may also be able to find the proper air filter dimensions listed in your HVAC manual.

How do I know what size my carrier air conditioner is?

There should be a label on the unit which shows the model number. Often, the model number contains a number related to the tonnage. For example, one ton is 12,000 BTU per hour, two tons is 24,000, and so on. For a unit of typical size, if you see “24” in the model number, it's probably a 2-ton unit.

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