Where to Find the Filter in an Armstrong Air Furnace

Knowing the exact location of the furnace filter in an Armstrong Air furnace is essential for routine maintenance and optimal system performance. Replacing or cleaning the filter regularly helps maintain air quality and improves energy efficiency. This comprehensive guide outlines common locations of Armstrong Air furnace filters, how to identify them, and tips for replacement to keep your home comfortable and your system running smoothly.

Furnace Model Type	Common Filter Location	Filter Type	Maintenance Tip
Cabinet-Style Furnace	Internal Slide-In Compartment	Disposable or Washable Media Filter	Replace every 1-3 months depending on usage
Upflow/Downflow Furnace	Return Air Duct or Blower Compartment	Standard Fiberglass or Pleated Filter	Check monthly during heavy use periods
Collapsible or Drop-In Filter Furnaces	Behind Front Panel or Blower Access Panel	Panel or Cartridge Filter	Clean or replace per manufacturer recommendations

Common Locations of Armstrong Air Furnace Filters

The filter location in Armstrong Air furnaces varies based on the model and installation type. However, there are standard spots where the filter is typically installed for easy access.

Filter Placement in Cabinet-Style Furnaces

In most Armstrong Air cabinet-style furnaces, the filter is located inside the furnace cabinet. The filter slot is usually found by removing a hinged or removable front panel. Homeowners will often find a slide-in filter compartment either directly behind this panel or adjacent to the blower motor housing. This internal placement protects the filter and helps ensure maximum filtration efficiency.

Upflow and Downflow Furnace Filter Locations

For upflow furnaces, filters are generally placed at the bottom of the unit, inside the return air duct. Downflow furnaces commonly house the filter at the top or side within an accessible panel. These locations facilitate routine filter changes without needing specialized tools.

Behind the Blower or Return Air Duct

Some Armstrong Air models have the furnace filter located just before the blower assembly or within the return air duct. This ensures that air entering the blower is cleaned before circulating through the system. Accessing the filter here usually requires removing the blower access panel or a section of the return duct.

How to Identify Your Armstrong Air Furnace Filter Type

Identifying the filter type is crucial to selecting the correct replacement and ensuring proper fit and filtration. Armstrong Air furnaces commonly use three main types of filters:

• Fiberglass Filters: Disposable and thin, typically with a cardboard frame.
• Pleated Filters: More efficient, thicker, and reusable or disposable depending on the model.
• Washable Media Filters: Designed for multiple uses; these are often found in higher-end units.

Check the owner’s manual or the existing filter for dimensions and type markings. Armstrong Air replacement filters are widely available, but matching the exact size and MERV rating is essential for maintaining system effectiveness.

Steps to Access and Replace the Armstrong Air Furnace Filter

Performing a regular filter change can significantly extend your furnace’s lifespan and improve air quality. Follow these steps to locate and replace the filter efficiently:

1. Turn off the furnace power: Ensure safety by switching off the furnace at the thermostat or breaker panel.
2. Locate the furnace filter: Identify the panel or compartment where the filter is housed, usually at the return air duct or inside the furnace cabinet.
3. Remove the access panel: Use a screwdriver if needed, or gently pull open the panel.
4. Slide out the old filter: Note the airflow direction indicated by arrows on the filter frame.
5. Insert the new filter: Ensure it matches the size and airflow direction.
6. Replace the access panel: Secure it back tightly in place.
7. Restore power: Turn the furnace back on and check system operation.

Maintenance Tips for Armstrong Air Furnace Filters

To optimize your Armstrong Air furnace, consider these best practices for filter care:

• Change filters every 1 to 3 months depending on usage and air quality.
• Inspect the filter monthly during peak heating seasons to prevent clogging.
• Keep the area around the furnace clean to avoid dust buildup that reduces filter efficiency.
• Use filters with appropriate MERV ratings to balance air quality and system airflow.
• Store replacement filters in a dry environment to maintain their integrity until use.

How Filter Location Affects Furnace Efficiency

The position of the filter in an Armstrong Air furnace significantly affects airflow and filtration quality. Properly placed filters reduce the amount of dust and debris entering critical furnace components, thereby enhancing efficiency and preventing costly repairs. A filter located too far from the return duct might allow contaminants to bypass filtration, while a filter placed too close to the blower improves air cleaning but requires easier access for frequent changes.

Common Issues Related to Armstrong Air Furnace Filters

Understanding potential problems aids in timely troubleshooting:

• Clogged filters: Result in reduced airflow, causing the furnace to overheat and shut down.
• Improper filter size: Leads to air bypassing the filter, reducing air quality and system efficiency.
• Incorrect filter orientation: Affects airflow and filtration performance.
• Skipping filter changes: Accelerates wear on furnace components such as the blower motor and heat exchanger.

Where to Buy Armstrong Air Furnace Replacement Filters

Replacement filters for Armstrong Air furnaces can be sourced from:

• Authorized Armstrong Air dealers and service providers, ensuring compatibility and authenticity.
• Major home improvement stores such as Home Depot or Lowe’s with common sizes in stock.
• Online retailers including Amazon and HVAC specialty websites offering a broad selection of filter types and sizes.

Always verify the exact model number of the furnace and check the filter size specifications before purchasing replacements.