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furnace air flow direction

When a furnace filter is placed backwards, the fibers can’t do their job properly. This means your furnace has to work harder to generate the same air flow, resulting in increased energy costs. Particles are also allowed to build up irregularly, making the furnace working even harder to draw air.

Does the arrow point up or down on an air filter?

ANSWER: THE ARROWS ON ANY AIR FILTER NEED TO POINT IN THE SAME DIRECTION THE AIR IS FLOWING. For any air filter, whether it be for an air conditioner or a furnace, the ARROWS ALWAYS POINT IN THE DIRECTION OF AIR FLOW.

Which way does air flow for filter?

The Arrow and Air Flow Direction

The arrow on your filter should always face the unit and away from the return air duct that carries the air that will be heated or cooled. HVAC systems push the cool or warm air out and pull spent air in, recirculating the air throughout your home.

Why do air filters have a direction?

HVAC filter direction matters because air flows through it in one direction. While its two sides look the same, one is more porous to allow air to get inside. Otherwise, air can’t pass, and the unit itself must work harder and longer, leading to higher energy consumption and efficiency loss.

What happens if you put the air filter in the wrong way?

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.

Why are furnace filters directional?

The right furnace filter direction is necessary to effectively trap airborne particles. After removing the old filter, set it aside and grab your new filter. Check along the cardboard edges of the filter for an arrow. The arrow will indicate the air flow direction through your heating and cooling system.

How do I know which way the air flows in my AC?

Generally the edge of the filter is marked with an arrow which points in the direction of the airflow. In other words, the air travels from the tail of the arrow toward its point. If there is no arrow, the side that is stronger or reinforced by cardboard or wire mesh is the side the arrow should be pointing to.

What is the return duct on a furnace?

Return vents: What is a return vent? These vents suck the air from each room and send it back to the air conditioning or heating system. Return vents tend to be bigger than supply vents, and you won’t feel any air coming from them. When an HVAC system delivers air to a room, it increases that room’s air pressure.

Which side of furnace filter should be dirty?

In all cases, the furnace filter should be dirty on the side that the air comes into the furnace from. If your air filters are dirty in some other fashion, it is likely your furnace is not working properly, or the filter was installed incorrectly.