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Finding your HVAC filter shouldn’t be a mystery — but depending on your home’s system, it can be located in several different places. The air filter is one of the most important parts of your heating and cooling system. It keeps dust, debris, and allergens from circulating through your home and protects your furnace or air handler from damage.
Most modern furnace installations in Utah homes have their filters located to the side of the furnace, where the filter rack provides a tight seal. But there are several other potential locations depending on how your system was installed. Here’s where to look.
1. To the Side of the Furnace Cabinet
In most homes, the HVAC air filter is located on the side of the furnace cabinet.
This is considered the best location because it provides a solid seal between the filter and the rack, preventing dust and debris from bypassing the filter.
However, sometimes screws or brackets on the back side can prevent a tight fit. It’s a good idea to ask your HVAC technician to make sure your filter seals properly in the back for maximum efficiency and protection.
2. Below the Furnace
In some systems, the filter is located beneath the furnace.
This area may be modified to house either a one-inch filter or a thicker five-inch media filter, depending on your system’s design.
If you’re unsure what size filter your furnace requires, check your owner’s manual or ask a Brigham City HVAC professional to confirm the correct size for your model.
3. Inside the Furnace Cabinet
Some systems place the filter inside the furnace, either on the left or right side, or occasionally laid flat across the bottom of the cabinet. These filters are typically held in place by a small wire guard to prevent them from being pulled into the blower motor.
While this setup works, it’s not ideal — filters inside the cabinet often don’t seal as tightly, which can allow dust to reach sensitive internal components.
4. Inside the Return Air Ductwork
Another possible location is inside the return air duct, just before the furnace or air handler.
This placement helps capture dust as it enters the system, but the accessibility can vary depending on your duct design.
If you can’t easily locate it, your HVAC technician can point it out during your next maintenance service.
5. Above a Downflow Furnace (in a “V” Shape)
In downflow furnace systems, you might find two filters positioned above the furnace in a V shape.
While this setup can be more challenging to access — sometimes requiring tools — it has one benefit: having two filters usually means they last longer between changes.
If your system uses this configuration, schedule regular checks to ensure both filters remain clean and properly aligned.
6. Wall or Ceiling Return Air Intakes
If you don’t see a filter at your furnace, check your wall or ceiling intakes.
Many homes, especially newer ones, have filters installed behind return air grilles. You can usually access these by flipping open two small tabs or latches.
Always make sure the arrow on your replacement HVAC filter points in the direction of airflow (toward the furnace or air handler).
Why It Matters
Changing your HVAC filter regularly helps improves indoor air quality, reduces system strain, and helps your furnace or air conditioner last longer.
If you’re unsure where your filter is or how to replace it, Brigham Heating & Cooling can help during your next tune-up or maintenance visit.
