The direction of an HVAC filter is an important factor to consider when it comes to air flow and energy efficiency. Both sides of the filter may look the same, but one is more porous to allow air to enter. If the filter is installed incorrectly, air will have difficulty flowing through the filter material and your air handler will have to work overtime to compensate for the loss of airflow. This can lead to higher energy consumption and a decrease in efficiency.
When installing an air filter, look for the arrows printed on the side that indicate in which direction it should be inserted. If there are no arrows, check again as almost all filters have them. It's important to routinely check your air filters to prevent them from becoming clogged with dirt, dust, or debris, and to keep filtering the air you and your family breathe. A clue that tells you when it's time to replace filters is when you can no longer see through the filter.
Dirty air filters also force your HVAC system to work harder than it needs to, reducing equipment life and increasing your energy bills. If the filter is on the ceiling, the arrow should face the ceiling. If it's on the wall, the arrow should be facing the wall. Be careful when removing the old air filter, as it probably has accumulated quite a lot of dust and other particles.
For optimal efficiency and indoor air quality near the Coachella Valley, make sure your air filters are installed correctly. By doing so, you can ensure that your HVAC system is working at its best and that you're breathing clean air.
