How to Replace Central Heat and Air Filters

Central air conditioning provides for comfortable and even cooling of the entire home during the summer. The filter portion of the central air-conditioning unit filters harmful dust and odors from every room in the house. The filter on a central air-conditioning unit will need to be replaced periodically to maintain effective cooling and air stability in the home during summer and winter months.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver (optional)
• Replacement filter

Instructions

1. 

   Return air duct panels are secured with screws or latches.

   Locate the return air duct in the home. The return air duct is usually located in the floor of a room, on the ceiling of a room, or in a wall.

2. 

   Access panels are held in with screws or latches.

   Use the appropriate screwdriver to remove the access panel to the return air duct. Some access panels use screws to hold the access panel in place. Other panels are secured with latches, which must be opened with the thumb to remove the access panel from the return duct.

3. Remove the old air filter from the duct. Take note in which direction the filter is inserted. You will need to remember the direction when you insert the replacement filter

4. Place the new filter into the return air duct. The new filter should fit snugly into the duct. It is safe to replace the filter when the central air-conditioning unit is operating.

5. Replace the access panel by tightening the screws or securing the latches on the access panel.

References

• How to Change a Central Air Filter