Install Your Air Filter In the Right Direction

Which Direction Do I Install My Air Filter?

As the owner of a central heating and cooling system, one of your most important maintenance responsibilities is to regularly change your air filter. That’s because a dirty and clogged air filter will significantly impair the efficiency of your furnace and air conditioner.

To get the best efficiency and indoor air quality near the Coachella Valley just make sure your air filters are installed the right way.

Hydes wants to ensure that you install your new filter correctly, so today we’re going to talk about how to know which direction to install your air filter and what can happen if it’s installed the wrong way!

Why does airflow direction matter when you install your air filter?

Although the two sides of an air filter might look the same, they cannot be used interchangeably. That’s because air filters are designed with one side that is more porous than the other. This allows the filter to effectively trap airborne particles while also minimizing the chances of slowing down your system’s airflow.

What happens if you install your filter in the wrong direction?

If you install your filter in the wrong direction, air will have a hard time flowing through the filter’s material and your air handler will have to work overtime to make up for the loss of airflow. This is not only a waste of energy, but it can also possibly damage your air conditioner or heating system. And worst of all you'll have a higher energy bill. 

How can you ensure that you install your air filter in the correct direction?

Air filters have arrows printed on the sides of them that show you which way they are supposed to be installed. These arrows should be pointing in the direction that air flows through your system, which is away from the supply ducts and (typically) toward the blower.

Easy Tip: You can look at the old filter’s arrows before you install your new filter and make sure that the new filter’s arrows face the same direction.

If you are unsure about which direction you should install your filter, don’t hesitate to give Hydes a call. We’d be happy to help and can probably help over the phone.

If you have any questions about air filter airflow direction, or if you’d like a cooling system serviced or installed in your home, contact Hydes, your Coachella Valley air conditioning contractor.