Please help us continue to provide you with our trusted how-to guides and videos for free by whitelisting wikiHow on your ad blocker. 3M Filtrete is one common brand. Energy savings, lower utility bills, and better indoor air quality are the three greatest benefits that you’ll enjoy when you replace your dirty furnace filters. Locate the furnace filter compartment. Slide out the old filter. The filters will have arrows on them denoting airflow. Remove the new filter from its packaging, ensure that the arrow on the filter points to the direction of the furnace. It may be difficult to locate on some HVAC systems, but you can usually find the air filter in the return air duct. We recommend our users to update the browser. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. A higher quality filter will cost more, but can be effective in reducing allergens. If your furnace is constantly in use you will need to change the air filter at least once a month. The filter should have an arrow on it indicating airflow direction. What if I have a plastic-framed air filter? This kind of filter will trap large particles of dust and is designed to be replaced every 1-2 months. It is typically located between the return air duct and the furnace or air handler. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer) as we strive to provide site experiences for browsers that support new web standards and security practices. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. All of this extra work leads to excess wear and tear on your unit. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Install the filter This is the easiest step, open up the slot, ensure that the ducts are clean. Our latest shed is also a pavilionâand you can build it, too! Fiberglass filters are a lower cost option, but they need to be disposed of and replaced roughly every 30 days. All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published, This article was co-authored by our trained team of editors and researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. wikiHow's. The frequency at which your air filter should be changed depends on a variety of factors, including the type of filter in your HVAC unit. Maintaining a clean furnace filter not only helps keep your furnace’s interior components clean and in good operating order, but also contributes to improved air quality by reducing the amount of allergens and harmful particles in the air. How to Change Your Furnace Filter Locate the filter compartment. This guide explains how often to change an air filter … It may take a few minutes. There is sometimes another cover over the filter that you will have to pull off. Furnace filters protect your furnace from dust, hair and other debris that gets drawn in through cold air return ducts. [2] X Trustworthy Source Consumer Reports Nonprofit organization dedicated to consumer advocacy and product testing Go to source wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. In addition to keeping your furnace clean and improving efficiency, changing your air filter regularly can also increase your furnace’s lifespan. This is a sign that your air filter is clogged with contaminants, forcing the furnace to work twice as hard to push fresh air through the clogged filter. Hopefully there is an air filter in the furnace. If you put the filter in backwards, then your furnace won’t have sufficient airflow and it can overheat and shut down. Take out your current filter and check the side. Filters are designed to protect the blower motor from dirt. Plus: What you need to know about choosing furnace filters. Unwrap your new air filter and insert it into the filter cabinet. Dispose of the old filter. Remember, there are TWO filters in your house – your furnace filter and your lungs! If you don’t change the filter, lack of airflow through the … wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This video shows you how to remove the furnace door panel, find the filter, and replace it with a new one. You must remove the air filter from the furnace. It’s a very important issue, so much so that we’ve dedicated a whole blog post to explaining the dangers of a clogged air filter. Maintaining healthy air quality. I will take a couple of pictures and post them. The filter replacement frequency varies by model, so review the owner's manual for specific recommendations for your unit. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2020 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. Home furnace filters are made to filter air in a single direction so that they do not collapse or fall apart as they trap dust and other debris. Many downflow units have their unique filters in the ductwork. Slide out the old filter and dispose of it. The next step can be trickier — finding the air filter. This will cause you reduced air flow and higher utility bills. Both events stress the system. The “air-flow direction arrow” printed on the new filter should be pointed towards your furnace (or more specifically; arrow pointed towards your furnace fan unit). The filter in a forced air furnace protects you and the furnace blower from harmful airborne matter … Plus: What you need to know about choosing furnace filters. Note most Air Handles will have central returns, which have built in filter grills to accommodate a filter.. There are 11 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. These are typically found in the ceiling or in the wall. Once the filter is in position, replace the filter cabinet door securely. Replace the filter access panel, and restore power to the furnace. If there is one in the furnace, it will be behind the blower panel. Spray water through the filters in the opposite direction that the air flows through. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Your support helps wikiHow to create more in-depth illustrated articles and videos and to share our trusted brand of instructional content with millions of people all over the world. The Space-Gard whole-house air purifier is a high-efficiency furnace air filter that removes dust, dust mites, mold spores, pet dander, pollen, bacteria, viruses, smoke, and other contaminants from the air circulating through the furnace system.The filter is designed to become more efficient with use. All furnaces are equipped with an air filtration system designed to trap dirt, dust and other pollutants. Homeowners can replace the filters easily and without the need for tools. Every month, pull the filter from your furnace and compare it to the new one. However, if the filter appears dirty, change it immediately! This is a manufactured home. If your home has an air handler or furnace, the air filter can be found within or near the air handler/furnace. The filter is usually located at the air return duct or the entrance to the blower chamber. Most Air Handlers will have a built in furnace filter rack in the unit. Remove the Access Panel – In some furnace designs, it may be necessary to remove an access panel to get to the air filter located on the side of the furnace. Over time, dust and other debris can collect in the filter, reducing the efficiency of the furnace. Many costly repairs can be avoided with regular filter changing. We know ads can be annoying, but they’re what allow us to make all of wikiHow available for free. Check your furnace filter monthly and change it when it’s dirty. The first thing you need to do is identify which kind of filter … Air filters and furnace filters should be checked at least once a month. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Insert a new filter, ensuring the correct furnace filter direction. I can see an air scrubber attached to the furnace…..I really don’t know what an air scrubber is. Myth #3: The higher the MERV rating, the better. The air filter is meant to protect both the mechanical components of your furnace and the indoor air quality of your home from airborne particles. First, turn the unit off. Tip: Check your filter every month to see if it needs replacement. I do not know how old the furnace is. Replace furnace filters every month for best results. Air Handlers. Amid the current public health and economic crises, when the world is shifting dramatically and we are all learning and adapting to changes in daily life, people need wikiHow more than ever. Actually, you should check your filter monthly and often change it monthly, depending on the type of filter you use. Replacing the filter will allow the air to heat more quickly, thereby saving on energy usage and costs. Most disposable types of filters are designed to be replaced every 1-2 months. Just make sure to check the filter monthly and change it when it’s dirty (not just every three months as recommended). Here’s how to tell if you need a new furnace. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Filters are designed to trap dust and airborne particles as air is drawn through the filter and into the furnace system. Putting it in backward decreases the filter’s efficiency. If you can no longer clearly see light, change the filter (see photo above). These filters last longer; from 4 months to 1 year. Carrier recommends that homeowners check their furnace filters every three to four weeks for optimal furnace performance. If anyone in your home has allergies, they will benefit from more frequent air filter changes. When you consistently change your air filter, you can save from 5 to 15 percent on your utility costs. A clean furnace filter traps dirt and allergens and makes your furnace run more efficiently — and last longer. Remove the filter compartment door, if you have one. Determine Which Size Filter You Need. However, there are a lot of factors that may make you change your filters more often. It … Sometimes there’s a filter in both locations. All you need to do is slide the old one out and slide the new one in. If you want to upgrade your filter, you can get a slightly more expensive disposable pleated filter, which will trap smaller particles of dust , pollen, and dirt. If your door is the type that slides off, then you can typically remove it by simply lifting it up until it comes free, and then set it aside. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. For maximum efficiency, it is recommendable to replace filters every three months. How Often to Change Air Filters will vary based on the type of filter you have. Did you know there is a correct way to install your air filter? How Dusty is Your House. It's important to check your HVAC system's air filter every 30 days and clean or replace it every 1 – 3 months. Then removed used filter. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Follow these simple steps and know how to change air condition filter in summer and how to change a furnace filter … % of people told us that this article helped them. Furnace Filter Maintenance/Signs of Need of Change, We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer), five things everyone needs to know about changing a furnace filter. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. What you should know about your furnace’s air filter: Filters are located either inside the furnace or inside the return air vent. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Replacing the filter will allow the air to heat more quickly, thereby saving on … Dispose of it and replace it with a new filter of the same size when it gets dirty. References. The filter should slide out easily. Even if you do not use your furnace, the air filter should be changed every three months. This is how to buy furnace filters at The Home Depot. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2020 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. Upflow furnaces work with a high velocity type air filter that are able to be found within the furnace blower compartment in both a bottom or side (left or right). Dirty air filters worsen the air quality and can exacerbate symptoms. Some filters can be replaced annually, while others require more frequent maintenance. Keeping your furnace filter clean is an important aspect of home maintenance, especially if the furnace is older. Benefits of Regularly Changing Your Air Filter. When buying filters for this task, an inexpensive glass fiber filter will do the job. They are available in both disposable and reusable varieties. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2020 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\n<\/p><\/div>"}. This is how to buy furnace filters at The Home Depot. When it comes to furnace filters, they are “MERV” rated according to how finely they filter the air. Plus, here are five things everyone needs to know about changing a furnace filter. Refer to the owner's manual for your furnace for any specific instructions regarding how to replace the filter. Signs your air filter needs changed: The filter is visibly dirty. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2020 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. A dirty air filter can lead to a dirty HVAC system. How to change your air filter. Check for such a system and slide the lock out of the way to release the filter. If you have a water filter in your refrigerator for ice makers or water dispensers, … Please consider making a contribution to wikiHow today. Three Things To Try If Your Furnace's Air Filter Is Stuck In Its Slot. If you have furry pets or your furnace runs all the time, then your filter will get dirty more quickly. thick mechanical air filter to an electronic filter plate system, involve electrical or ductwork changes by heating/cooling contractors. Furnace filters don’t just keep the air in your home clean; they also play a big role in determining energy costs. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Other furnaces have the filter at the bottom of the unit and are accessible by removing the front access panels. The process for changing standard disposable filters is fairly straightforward and involves just a few steps: Locate your air filter. In general, you should check the filter’s condition about once a month and change or clean it when necessary during the heating season. If your filter does not have the dimensions printed on it, then measure it with a measuring tape, or check the owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure you get the right replacement filter. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Did you know there is a correct way to install your air filter? What you need to know about choosing furnace filters. If your Carrier furnace has a washable filter, rinse the filter under cool running water until clean. Look for the vents where the air enters into the furnace system to locate the filter near either the air return duct or the entrance to the blower chamber. Air filters are typically located in your system’s return air vent, which might be on the ceiling, wall or on the side of your furnace or air handler. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. All other options, from a 4-in. Your air filter’s and furnace filter’s replacement cycle is also affected by the air outside and within your home. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. When changing out your furnace filter for a new one, do you ever wonder if you are installing it the correct way? When changing out your furnace filter for a new one, do you ever wonder if you are installing it the correct way? To determine if it’s too dirty, remove the filter and hold it up to the light. Electrostatic air filters work by relying on multiple layers of filtration media which clean the air as it passes through the filter. Unlike many furnaces that use a box type filter, older mobile homes usually have a foam or mesh type filter without a frame. Please consider making a contribution to wikiHow today. This article was co-authored by our trained team of editors and researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. The furnace and air conditioner typically share the same air handler. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Dust particles adhere to the air filter. https://www.cleanalert.com/blog/how-to-change-your-home-air-filter, https://www.dummies.com/home-garden/interiors/ventilation/how-to-change-a-furnace-filter/, https://www.familyhandyman.com/heating-cooling/furnace-repair/how-to-change-a-furnace-filter/, https://www.consumerreports.org/home-air-purifiers/how-to-replace-furnace-filters/, https://www.bobvila.com/articles/change-a-furnace-filter/, consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. We do not have central air. If you’re thinking that you only have to change your filter once a year, you may well be shortening the life of your furnace. The old filter should slide out easily. Make sure the airflow arrow printed on the new filter is pointing in the direction of the furnace or air handler. Thank you in … This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Furnace Filter Maintenance/Signs of Need of Change. If the furnace turns on while there is not filter in it, then it can suck up potentially-damaging loose debris. Learn how to change an air filter and you'll get better air inside your home all year round. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Yes. Schedule service How to determine how often you should change your furnace filter: Step 1: Determine your filter’s MERV and thickness. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 6,383 times. To determine if it’s too dirty, remove the filter and hold it up to the light. If you don’t change the filter, lack of airflow through the furnace will cause it to overheat and shut down. Certainly if you can’t see the material of the filter itself, it should be replaced. Changing Your Furnace Filter. Some filter models are designed to be discarded and replaced with a new one. They remove more particles, last longer and cost more. Again, consult your manual for proper procedure, but typically the process for how to change a furnace filter goes as follows: Turn off the furnace. Do Not Sell My Personal Information â CA Residents. I would like to know , since our home did not come with return exchange filters , should I install them or was the furnace system designed not to use them ? How to Tell When You Need to Change Your HVAC Air Filter If you’re not sure when or how to change the filters in your furnace, consider the following. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2020 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. We carry an efficient array of Furnace Filters for your home. How to Change the Filter on a Carrier Gas Furnace 58STX. That’s because filtering out harmful particles limits wear, breakdowns, and major system malfunctions. This will keep the air flowing through your furnace, minimize the strain on your heating system, and help filter dust and other particles out of the air in your home. Once you find the manufacture’s specifications on filters, there are a variety of options you can purchase that filter … Your Payne furnace is equipped with an air filter that keeps dust and other contaminants from cycling through it. If there is any resistance when you try to slide the filter out, then there may be a locking mechanism keeping it in place. Consumer Reports shows you how to do it. disposable filtersâthe standard pleated filterâwhich costs a bit more. Locate the area which houses the air filter near the air supply and remove the panel. If they are dirty they should be changed with a fresh clean air filter. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2020 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. It’s a good idea to draw the airflow direction arrow with a permanent marker on the actual furnace housing or ductwork. If you have poor air quality outside or pets inside, you’ll need to replace your air filter more frequently. According to "Insulate & Weatherize," you should stay away from "permanent" filters that you wash and reuse; those filters actually tend to provide more resistance to air movement, reducing energy efficiency. We had our home built in 2005 from the ground. In most cases, you should have one air filter for each level of your house. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2020 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. Similarly, a dirty filter can cause an air conditioner to shut down because the coils freeze up when airflow is inadequate. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. I want to change my furnace filter. Locate and Open Air Filter Cabinet When it’s time to inspect your filter, always be sure to turn off power to the system. 3. Payne makes both … Be certain that the air flow arrow points toward the furnace or blower motor. Don’t rely on a clean air filter to keep your furnace running smoothly all on its own, though. You should follow the filter manufacturer’s recommendations, but a good rule of thumb is to inspect your AC filter at least once every 2-3 months. Over time, dust and other debris can collect in the filter, reducing the efficiency of the furnace. Usually, manufacturers will include the MERV and dimensions on the long side of the filter. For more precise filter replacement tips, check out the steps below. Air Grilles – Though not a common location, some furnace filters can be found in return air grilles. Furnaces used in large homes move more air and therefore they … Replacing a furnace filter in an old mobile home requires cutting the filter to size yourself. Learn more... Changing a home furnace filter regularly is the fastest and easiest way to make sure your furnace is running smoothly and efficiently, as well as to help purify the air in your home. Finally, whatever filter you use, make sure you reinstall it correctly, with the arrow on the filter edge pointing toward the blower motor. Where this is not applicable, ensure that the denser side faces the furnace. Check your filter every month and any time you notice dust building up in your home. Please remember, .99 cent filters do not work effectively. By using our site, you agree to our. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2020 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2020 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. In general, a MERV rating of 6 indicates that the filter will capture up to half of the particles in the air; a filter with a rating of 8 will trap 70 to 85 percent of air-born particles it encounters; and a rating of 11 or higher means that the air passing through the filter is up to 95 percent cleaner when it comes out of the filter than it was when it went into it [source: Lowe's]. You’ll get better heating in the winter and air conditioning in summer. Why is it so important to clean my air filter on my furnace? Every day at wikiHow, we work hard to give you access to instructions and information that will help you live a better life, whether it's keeping you safer, healthier, or improving your well-being. I held the new air filter up to the grill work while the furnace was on and the suction held the filter up. Many costly repairs can be avoided with regular filter changing. Dirty or clogged air filters prevent healthy air flow, damage components inside your air … Disposable filters have a cardboard frame. This dust can become trapped in the blower cage and on the evaporator coil where it will eventually plug these components up and cause system malfunction. Better yet, to remove even more small particles, install an inexpensive, electrostatically charged fiber filter. How to replace furnace filters. Slide the filter out of the furnace; replace filters that appear dirty or clogged. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Changing your common style filter is simple. Slide in a new filter. I just removed that grill work and there is nothing to hold the filter upright. Then you’ll easily be able to tell when the dust is covering the filter and it needs to be replaced. Believe it or not, there is a right way and a wrong way to change your furnace filter. The standard time recommended to change a high-quality air filter is at least once every three months. … But in order to keep your furnace running at peak efficiency, you will have to maintain it and change the filter on a regular basis. Air Grilles – Though not a common location, some furnace filters can be found in return air grilles. Remove the existing furnace filter, which will be located inside the furnace or inside the return air vent. This article has been viewed 6,383 times. You can do this either at the thermostat, the breaker box, or using the shutoff switch located on/near the indoor unit (often looks like a light switch). Locate the service panel and remove it. The cheapest disposable furnace filters are fiberglass with cardboard frames. It can be easy to forget this small HVAC maintenance aspect, especially if you don’t know how often to change it. While not the best set up. Staying mindful of the factors that play a role in the air quality inside your home is a good measurement for how often your furnace filters need to be replaced. The grill will have a hinged face with the filter may reside. In most cases, you should have one air filter for each level of your house. Keep your Goodman gas furnace running efficiently first and foremost by replacing the filter on a regular basis. An understanding of the role that air filters play … This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2020 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. Last Updated: May 27, 2019 Don't let go of the tissue but watch which direction the air flows. A clogged air filter can cause expensive damage to your furnace and also reduce the quality of your inside air. When the blower of the furnace/air conditioner is running, open the little metal door (slot where the filter goes), and hold a tissue near the opening. If your filter has a plastic or metal frame, then it is a reusable filter. Believe it or not, there is a right way and a wrong way to change your furnace filter. These types of filters are antimicrobial and specially designed to trap things like mold, mildew, fungus, yeast, and algae. The air should be flowing toward the furnace unit. Some internal HVAC systems have small panels that have a handle that lifts off where the filter sits. If you decide to use filters at the registers. Remember that if you have furry pets or you run the furnace very regularly, then you will need to replace the filter more frequently. Check the filter monthly to see when it needs to be replaced. For example, a basic, 1-inch air filter will most likely need to be replaced more often than a larger 4-inch filter. That’s the first step to improving the air quality in your home, helping your HVAC system run more efficiently and saving money on energy costs.. If dust has built up between the slats, wrap the tip of a flat screwdriver with a microfiber cloth and use it to gently clean in between the slats or vacuum the cover with a brush attachment. If you provide proper filter maintenance and your air conditioner or furnace breaks down, your home warranty plan will repair or replace your HVAC unit. Day & Night manufactures a broad product line of residential gas furnaces. You’ll save on your utility bills and extend the life of your furnace too. So now that you know how to change a furnace filter, you also know how to change an air conditioner filter. Furnace filters need to be replaced every few months to keep your furnace running at peak efficiency. Trane XE80 furnace filter may be identified in different locations based on on what kind and size of unit you own. The obvious reason to change your furnace filter is because that filter is what is removing all the dust, dander and debris from your air in your home. Bravo for wanting to change your air filter! 9 December 2015 Categories: , Blog Many air duct sections leading into furnaces have slots on them that allow you to quickly change an air filter by opening a slot's cover and pulling the filter out by its edge. Filters can change from pristine white to dirty grey in a matter of weeks. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. If you really can’t stand to see another ad again, then please consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. You can usually find it near where the cool air enters the furnace — the air return duct or at the entrance to the blower chamber. We’ve been living in our home for 12 years . Wipe the grille clean with a microfiber cloth. Other Frequently-Asked Furnace Filter Questions Is a furnace filter the same as an air filter? Usually, the filter is either just inside the furnace or just inside the air vent. Check the Air Flow Arrows and install the new filter. We have looked for any kind of filter and can’t find one. Wash the filters with cold water and mild liquid detergent. A good rule of thumb is to change 1-2 inch filters every three months, 4 inch filters every six months and 5 inch filters every 12 months. Many furnace filters are located on one side of the HVAC System. Air filters should be changed regularly in your home to keep your system running smoothly and to maintain optimal air quality. How to Replace The Filter On a Forced Air Furnace. Locate the filter in your furnace and remove any cover that is over it. Refrigerator Filter. I can’t find any filter on my furnace. Your filter will be between the ductwork bringing air in and the furnace body. The company recommends periodic replacement of the air filter to ensure the furnace operates properly. This is particularly important if anyone in your family suffers from allergies or asthma.