Home Air Filters & HVAC Filter Replacement: Any Size You Need

To replace your furnace filter, first locate the return air vent. It’s usually found on an interior wall or ceiling and may be painted to match the surrounding surface. Open the vent by pulling the small lever or latch on the side. Remove the old HVAC filter and slide in your new one, ensuring the airflow arrows on the filter match the airflow direction in your system.

A proper air filter replacement helps your furnace or air conditioner run more efficiently and keeps your indoor air cleaner.

The right time for a furnace filter replacement depends on your indoor air quality goals. Filter King filters are designed to last up to 90 days, but many households benefit from more frequent changes.

If you have pets, smoke indoors, or live with allergies or asthma, replacing your HVAC filter every 30 to 60 days can help improve air quality and keep your system running efficiently. A fresh air filter ensures cleaner air and better heating and cooling system performance.

The location of your air filter depends on your HVAC system setup. Most commonly, the air filter is found in the return air duct or inside the blower compartment, where air enters the system to be cleaned.

Some air conditioner filters are placed directly inside the unit, while others sit behind a wall or ceiling vent. If you're unsure, check your system manual or contact Filter King for help identifying the right air filter replacement location for your setup.

Technically, your furnace or air conditioner can run without a filter, but it’s strongly discouraged.

The air filter acts as a barrier that protects your HVAC system from dust, dirt, and debris. Without it, particles can build up inside the system, reducing efficiency and leading to costly damage over time.

A proper HVAC filter replacement helps maintain clean airflow, protects your equipment, and supports healthier indoor air quality.

Installing your air filter backward can reduce airflow and strain your HVAC system. Filters are designed with a specific direction. The porous side allows air flow, while the denser mesh side captures particles.

When reversed, the filter resists airflow, forcing your system to work harder. This can lead to higher energy bills, reduced air quality, and long-term mechanical damage. Always check the airflow arrows on the filter before installation to ensure proper furnace filter replacement.

Yes, a dirty air filter can significantly reduce your air conditioner's efficiency. As dust and debris build up, airflow becomes restricted, forcing your HVAC system to work harder to cool your home.

This can lead to poor cooling performance, increased energy bills, and added strain on your equipment. How long an air filter lasts depends on your home's size, daily usage, and the filter's MERV rating. Regular air filter replacement is essential for better performance and air quality.

A dirty furnace filter blocks airflow, forcing your HVAC system to work harder just to circulate air. As the filter becomes clogged with dust and debris, it restricts clean air from moving through your system, which can reduce efficiency and increase energy costs. Over time, this can also lead to poor indoor air quality, with stale or dusty air lingering in your home. Regular HVAC filter replacement helps maintain airflow, protect your system, and keep your home’s air fresh.

Yes, they are very important to any air system they are in. Air systems have no way of knowing whether the air they are bringing in is clean or dirty. Air filters are essential to ensuring that any air brought in is cleaned before entering your living space. Without filtration, the air coming in from outside may contain any number of dust, debris, pollutants, and allergens.