Coleman Evcon Furnace Filter Location and How to Access It

The Coleman Evcon furnace filter location can vary by model, age, and installation type. This article explains where filters are commonly found, how to identify the correct filter size and type, step-by-step removal and replacement instructions, maintenance tips, and troubleshooting guidance to keep HVAC performance optimal. Knowing the filter location helps ensure efficient airflow, better indoor air quality, and longer equipment life.

Common Unit Type	Typical Filter Location	Notes
Upflow Furnace (Basement)	At Bottom Front Access Panel Or Return Plenum	Slide-in or cabinet-mounted; sometimes in a filter rack
Downflow Furnace (Closet)	Top Return Plenum Or Inside Blower Compartment	Filter may be horizontal or vertical
Horizontal Furnace (Attic/Crawl)	Left Or Right Side Access Panel Or Return Duct	Often tucked into a filter frame in the ductwork

Overview Of Coleman Evcon Filter Placements

Coleman Evcon furnaces, made under the Evcon and Coleman brands, follow common HVAC design patterns. Filter locations generally fall into three categories: inside the furnace cabinet near the blower, in a dedicated filter rack on the return plenum, or in a slot in the wall/ceiling return grille. Identifying the category for a specific installation is the first step to accessing and replacing the filter.

How To Identify The Filter Location On A Coleman Evcon Furnace

Look at the system layout and where the return air enters the furnace. If the return air flows vertically from below, expect an upflow design with the filter near the bottom. If return air enters from the top, anticipate a downflow placement. For horizontal runs, check the sides of the furnace or the return duct for a filter access slot.

Visual Clues

Inspect for an access panel with screws or clips on the furnace front or side. A thin removable grille or a framed slot on the return duct or wall often indicates the filter location. Some installations use a separate filter cabinet attached to the return plenum; this is usually a rectangular box with a removable door.

Common Filter Types And Sizes For Coleman Evcon Units

Coleman Evcon systems typically use one of these filter types: disposable fiberglass or pleated filters, washable electrostatic filters, or higher-efficiency replaceable media filters. Standard sizes include 16x20x1, 20x25x1, 16x25x1, and custom rack sizes. Always verify size by measuring the existing filter or the filter slot.

Filter Type	Common Use	Pros	Cons
Fiberglass 1-inch	Basic residential systems	Low cost, inexpensive	Low filtration efficiency
Pleated MERV 8–11	Most homes	Better particle capture, good airflow	Higher cost, needs periodic replacement
Media/Extended Surface	Allergy concerns or high dust	High efficiency, longer life	Higher initial cost, may need different rack

Step-By-Step: Locating And Removing The Filter

Before starting, turn off the furnace power at the thermostat or breaker for safety. Gather a flashlight, screwdriver if needed, and a replacement filter. Working methodically reduces the risk of damaging panels or misplacing fasteners.

1. Check The Return Grille: Remove the return air grille inside the home and inspect for a filter behind it.
2. Inspect The Furnace Front Panel: On upflow units, remove the lower front access panel by unfastening screws or lifting clips; the filter may slide in at the bottom.
3. Look At The Blower Compartment: A filter can be mounted vertically along the blower housing; open the blower compartment access to check.
4. Examine The Return Plenum: Locate any rectangular filter cabinet attached to the return duct; open the door and slide the filter out.
5. Note Flow Direction: Filters have an airflow arrow; when replacing, ensure the arrow points toward the furnace/blower.

Tips For Measuring And Choosing The Right Filter

Measure the width, height, and thickness of the filter slot, not just the installed filter, to account for compression. Round dimensions up to the nearest common size if necessary. Choose a filter with a MERV rating appropriate to household needs: MERV 6–8 for basic dust control, MERV 8–11 for better allergy protection, and MERV 11–13 for higher filtration if the furnace fan and system can handle the added restriction.

Maintenance Schedule And Best Practices

Replace disposable 1-inch filters every 30–90 days depending on usage, pets, and indoor air quality. Pleated filters may last longer—up to 90 days—but should be checked monthly. Media filters often last 6–12 months. Regular filter replacement prevents airflow restriction, reduces energy use, and extends furnace life.

Seasonal Checklist

• Spring: Replace filter before cooling season and check outdoor condenser.
• Summer: Inspect monthly; replace if visibly dirty or if airflow decreases.
• Fall: Replace before heating season; inspect flue and vents.
• Winter: Check for dust accumulation monthly during frequent furnace use.

Troubleshooting Common Filter-Related Issues

Restricted airflow from a clogged filter may cause reduced heating or cooling, short cycling, or higher energy bills. Increasing noise from the blower can also indicate a dirty filter. If replacing the filter does not restore normal operation, check for additional obstructions in ductwork, blocked supply vents, or a failing blower motor.

Symptoms And Actions

Symptom	Likely Cause	Action
Low airflow	Clogged filter, closed vents	Replace filter, open registers
High energy use	Restricted airflow, dirty coils	Replace filter, clean coils
Uneven heating	Filter size mismatch, duct leaks	Confirm filter size, seal ducts

When To Call A Professional

If the filter location is inaccessible because of custom ductwork or the filter appears integrated into OEM equipment, contact an HVAC technician. Technicians can confirm proper filter type, install a filter rack if needed, and inspect for hidden issues such as collapsed ducts, improper airflow design, or mechanical faults that mimic filter-related problems.

Replacing A Filter Rack Or Installing An External Filter Cabinet

Homes with nonstandard Coleman Evcon installations may benefit from installing a dedicated filter rack or external cabinet on the return plenum. This provides easier access and allows the use of higher-efficiency filters. Professional installation ensures airflow balance and prevents added static pressure from harming system performance.

Parts, Accessories, And Where To Buy

Replacement filters for Coleman Evcon furnaces are available at big-box stores, HVAC supply houses, and online retailers. OEM parts like panel clips and filter racks can be sourced through authorized HVAC distributors. When ordering, use the furnace model number or measure the filter slot to ensure compatibility.

Model-Specific Notes For Coleman Evcon Units

Older Evcon-branded units may have filter access behind a bottom kick plate or inside a blower compartment, while newer Coleman models might use standard filter slots. Locate the model plate on the furnace to confirm specifications and refer to the manufacturer manual for precise filter instructions. Manuals are often available online by entering the model number and “manual” into a search engine.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Often Should A Coleman Evcon Filter Be Changed?

Disposable 1-inch filters: every 30–90 days. Pleated and higher-efficiency filters: every 60–120 days depending on use. Media filters: 6–12 months. Check monthly if pets or smokers are present.

What If The Filter Slot Is Empty Or Missing?

Some installations omit a filter in the furnace cabinet and rely on a return grille filter or an exterior filter cabinet. If no filter is found, consult an HVAC technician to add a proper filter location to protect the blower and heat exchanger.

Can A Higher MERV Filter Be Used?

Higher MERV filters offer better filtration but increase resistance to airflow. Verify that the furnace blower can handle the pressure drop; if unsure, choose a MERV 8–11 pleated filter or consult an HVAC professional before upgrading to MERV 13+.

Key Takeaways

Locate the filter by examining the return air path and furnace access panels. Measure the filter slot to get the right size. Replace filters on a regular schedule and choose a MERV rating appropriate to the system and household needs. When in doubt about accessibility or system compatibility, seek professional HVAC assistance to avoid damage and preserve performance.

Additional Resources

Manufacturer manuals for Coleman and Evcon furnaces, HVAC service guides, and filter sizing charts provide model-specific details. Searching the furnace model number plus “filter location” or consulting a licensed HVAC contractor will yield the most reliable guidance for complex installations.