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Step 1
Locate your furnace's filters. The filters for your furnace are located in the air intake somewhere before it reaches your blower. The filters are usually located near the blower, but in some homes the filter is located in a return grill in the main return near the furnace.
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Step 2
Clean around the furnace. When you remove the filter for replacement, dirt and dust will have direct access to your furnace. It is important to clean up around your work area to prevent any unnecessary dirt or dust from entering the furnace while you're changing the air filter.
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Step 3
Turn off power to the furnace or blower. When accessing your furnace be sure to turn off power to the unit by flipping the breaker. Sometimes the blower and furnace may be on different circuits, so check your labels at the breaker box to be sure you turn off power to both units.
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Step 4
Access the furnace filter. Remove the blower compartment access panel or the grill for the filter if it is located in the main return. You may need a screwdriver for this step. The blower compartment access panel slides into place and can be removed with the handle. If your filter is located in the main return, the grill is held in place with screws.
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Step 5
Replace the furnace filter. Replacement filters are cardboard and reusable filters are plastic or metal. If it is a replacement filter, simply put a new one in place of the old one and throw away the old filter. If it is a reusable plastic or metal filter, wash out the dust and particles with water at the sink or with a hose. When the filter is dry, reinstall it.
