Ownership 101: Essential Things You Should Know How to Do Around the House
Learn the basics of home maintenance with our guide to replacing your air filter. Discover how often to change it, where to find it, and the most important tips for proper installation to keep your home's air clean.
In this guide, we'll learn how to replace your home's air filter. Regularly changing your air filter helps keep your HVAC system running well and improves air quality. You'll also learn how to check the filter's direction and set reminders for future replacements.
Let's get started
Ownership 101: Essential things you should know how to do around the house. Replace your air filter every 30 to 90 days. First, ensure your thermostat is turned off.

Then find your filter.

Mine are both on our HVAC systems, but sometimes they are in a return vent.

Remove your old filter and check its size.

I like to buy in bulk, so I always have the right size available. Here is the most important tip.

Check the arrows on the side of the filter. The arrow should always point toward the furnace and away from the return duct that carries the air.

If you install it backward, it won't filter out the debris entering your air.
Set a reminder on your calendar to repeat this in three months.