Furnace Filter Arrows: What Do They Indicate?

Changing a furnace filter (actually, it’s the same filter your air conditioner uses as well) can be confusing. Depending on where it’s located, you may need some help accessing it and replacing it.

Another issue you may have encountered is confusion over which way to put the filter in: should the arrow on the frame point up or down? Read on, and we will help clear things up.

Air Filter Best Practices

1. Always buy the right size filter. Never try to trim down a too-large filter, or try to cram one that’s too large into the slot. Filters should never be wet.
2. Flimsy fiberglass filters should be changed at least once a month. These filters, which do nothing to improve indoor air quality, do a minimal job of keeping dirt out of your system. By using a better quality, pleated filter, you will improve your air, while protecting the moving parts of your HVAC system.
3. Change fiberglass filters at least once a month. You can go longer with better quality filters — at least two months and maybe three. Change the filter every two months if you have a home with lots of traffic or shedding pets.
4. If you’re not sure how to install the air filter, ask your HVAC tech to help you or show you how. Filters are sometimes installed in ductwork, near the furnace, in the furnace cabinet or inside the air handler. If yours is in a hard-to-reach place, and if you have any physical issues that make it difficult to reach the filter, you should plan on asking your tech to do it for you regularly.
5. When changing the filter, slide it in securely. Make sure the arrows are pointing the right way: toward the furnace or air handler. It won’t hurt to put the filter in upside down once, but doing it regularly could cause some damage.

To learn more about replacing your furnace filter, or to schedule repairs, maintenance or a new HVAC installation, contact Rinaldi’s Energy Solutions. Since 1969, we’ve helped countless Orlando and Central Florida homeowners with their heating and cooling needs.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Orlando, Florida and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).