Which Way Should the Air Filter Face Out?

Learn how to install an air filter correctly for optimal efficiency and indoor air quality near Coachella Valley.

Which Way Should the Air Filter Face Out?

Air filters are designed with arrows printed on the sides to indicate the direction of air flow. These arrows should always point away from the supply ducts and towards the blower. When installing a new air filter in the AC return duct, the arrows should be facing inward to show the direction of air flow. The return duct in your home is PULLING air, so when air is being sucked in, the arrows on the air filter should point INWARD, towards the duct.

Air filters can become clogged with dust, mold or pet dander, and as a result, air cannot easily pass through them. If there are no arrows on the air filter, make sure that the wire mesh is facing the fan of your HVAC system, as this is the last surface that touches the air. No matter what HVAC system you have, it needs a quality filter that fits properly to keep indoor air quality clean and your unit operating at peak efficiency. All air filters have arrows printed on their sides that make it clear in which direction they should be installed.

These filters need to be changed regularly to remain efficient, as dust and other air particles accumulate in them and reduce airflow. For optimal efficiency and indoor air quality near the Coachella Valley, make sure your air filters are installed correctly. An air purifier or air filter is a device that can be used with the HVAC system to help remove contaminants from indoor air. HVAC systems blow out hot or cold air and extract spent air, recirculating it throughout the house.

HVAC air filters come in different sizes; they can be 12 to 24 inches (30.48 to 60.96 cm) wide and 12 to 36 inches (30.48 to 91.44 cm) long. If air flows through the filter before entering the HVAC system, the arrow will be facing the blower. However, they need to be changed regularly because they become clogged over time and lose efficiency. Look for the airflow arrows printed on the side of the filter that indicate in which direction it should be inserted.