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The air filter is typically near the thermostat in your home in a return duct. Or, it’s most likely right next to your AC system’s air handler.
Where is the AC filter located in a house?
The filter usually fits in a slot on the air return side of the unit. These systems are usually found in smaller basements or crawl spaces where space is limited. The filter typically slides into a slot above or below the HVAC unit.
How do I find my air filter?
Where Are My Air Filter Located? Look Up. If you see a large vent on your ceiling, looking behind it will likely unveil your air filter. Look Down. Homes with ductwork in the crawlspace or basement often have a floor register which houses the air filter. Look Side to Side. Look… Everywhere.
Does the inside AC unit have a filter?
Yes, your central air conditioner has a filter. In fact, most central AC units have two or more filters. These filters clean the air and ensure good air quality as your unit circulates between inside and outside air. Central air conditioner filters often are made of fiberglass or pleated materials.
Is it OK to run AC without a filter?
Even though your air conditioning system will work without a filter, experts recommend against it because it can cause severe damage to your AC system and then you’ll need to pay for expensive repairs.
What does an air filter look like?
A clean air filter appears white or off-white in color, but as it accumulates dust and dirt, it will look darker in color. However, very often, the inner layers of filter paper inside the air filter might have dust and debris that is not visible even in bright light.
How often should you change your AC filter?
You should replace these about every 90 days, if you have no allergies, but AC pros typically recommend every 45 days for max efficiency. Be sure to replace them with the right size and type of air filter. If your AC was working properly, you could remove the filter and buy one that is identical to it.
How long can you run AC without filter?
The short answer: You can get away with running your AC without a filter for a short amount of time without hurting your system. That being said, running your AC without a filter for longer than 6-8 hours can cause serious damage to your AC system and significantly lower the quality of the air in your home.
Can AC filters be washed?
Wash the Filter Rinse it off with fresh water and let it fully dry before returning it to your AC unit. If the filter is too large to fit in your sink, you can also wash it with a garden hose outside. Do not use a pressurized setting on your hose so you don’t accidentally damage the filter.
How often do you change the air filters in your house?
Here are averages that may help you know how regularly you should get a new air filter at your residence: Vacation house or one occupant and no pets or allergies: every 6–12 months. Ordinary suburban home without pets: every 90 days. One dog or cat: every 60 days.
Why is my AC not blowing out cold air?
Leaking or Low Refrigerant If your central AC is not blowing cold air, the refrigerant may be the problem. The unit could be running low and need additional refrigerant added. The most likely cause of this is a leak. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, you should contact an HVAC professional right away.
What happens if I put my air filter in backwards?
By installing your filter backwards, air will have a harder time flowing through the filter and your air handler will have to work harder to make up for the loss of airflow. This could lead to higher utility bills and possibly damage your furnace or air conditioner.
How do you know if your air filter is dirty?
A filter that is clogged with dirt is an obvious sign of a dirty air filter. Performing a visual inspection is an easy way to know if your air filter needs to be changed. A brand new air filter is white or off-white in color, while a dirty air filter will appear darker with the dirt and debris visible.
How do I know if my HVAC air filter is dirty?
One clever way to determine if the air filter is dirty is to do the “white sheet test.” This involves hanging a clean white sheet approximately 5 inches away from one of the vents for at least one hour. If the sheet turns gray, you’ve got a filthy air filter. The grayer the sheet, the dirtier the filter.
What are the symptoms of a dirty air filter?
8 Dirty Air Filter Symptoms: How to Know When to Clean Your Air Air Filter Appears Dirty. Decreasing Gas Mileage. Your Engine Misses or Misfires. Strange Engine Noises. Check Engine Light Comes On. Reduction in Horsepower. Flames or Black Smoke from Exhaust Pipe. Strong Fuel Smell.
What happens when you don’t change AC filter?
If you don’t change your AC filter, it will begin to fail. It will no longer be able to filter the air properly, letting dust and contaminants get into the AC. Dust jams the moving parts of an AC such as fan motors and valves. This is how dust makes the unit less energy efficient (at best) and can lead to breakdowns.
