Concord Furnace Filter Location and How to Find It

Understanding where the Concord furnace filter is located saves time and helps maintain indoor air quality and system efficiency. This article explains typical Concord furnace filter locations, how to access and replace filters, filter sizes and types, maintenance schedules, and troubleshooting tips for owners and technicians.

Common Filter Location	Description
Return Air Grille	Filter installed behind wall or ceiling grille near return duct.
Furnace Cabinet/Blower Compartment	Slide-in or media filter located at the furnace air handler access panel.
In-Line Air Handler	Filter inside the HVAC blower unit, often on the side or bottom.
Filter Rack Or Slide	Dedicated rack where standard 1″–5″ filters slide into place.

How Concord Furnace Filter Location Varies By Model

Concord furnaces and air handlers are distributed across several OEM families and may share components with other brands. Filter location varies by model year and whether the unit is a standalone furnace, packaged unit, or part of a split system with a separate air handler.

For many residential Concord furnaces, the filter is located at the return air opening, either at the grille or inside the furnace cabinet just before the blower. Packaged and rooftop Concord units often use internal filters accessed via exterior panels.

Knowing the model number helps pinpoint the exact location. The model number is usually on a data plate on the furnace or air handler cabinet. When in doubt, consult the owner’s manual or manufacturer resources.

Common Concord Furnace Filter Locations Explained

Return Air Grille Or Wall Return

Many homes with Concord systems place the filter behind the return air grille, commonly in a hallway or central wall. This location is convenient for quick checks and replacements without accessing the furnace.

Filters in this position are typically standard 1-inch or 2-inch disposable filters. They slide behind the grille or sit in a frame; some grilles have simple snap-in filter trays.

Furnace Cabinet Or Blower Compartment

A frequent location for Concord filters is inside the furnace cabinet near the blower motor. Access requires opening the furnace access panel. This placement protects the filter from dust disturbances and often supports thicker media filters.

Slide-out filter racks or filters mounted at the return plenum entrance are common. Always power off the furnace before removing panels to inspect the filter.

Air Handler Or Duct Boot

In split systems, the filter can be inside the indoor air handler or at the duct boot where the return duct meets the unit. These filters may be deeper (4–5 inches) and provide better dust-holding capacity.

Air handlers often have a filter slot on the side or bottom; some larger units use multiple or media-style filters that require periodic professional cleaning or replacement.

Rooftop Or Packaged Unit Filters

Commercial or single-package Concord units typically include filters behind exterior access panels. These panels usually have quick-release latches for filter service. Filters in these units are often larger and thicker to handle higher airflow volumes.

Regular inspection of rooftop unit filters is critical because environmental debris can load filters quickly and reduce system efficiency.

How To Locate The Filter Step-by-Step

Step 1: Turn off power to the furnace at the switch or circuit breaker to ensure safety before inspecting the unit.

Step 2: Locate the return air grille in the home. Remove the grille cover to check for a filter behind it. If no filter is present, proceed to the furnace cabinet.

Step 3: Open the furnace access panel or blower compartment. Look for a filter slot at the air intake side of the blower. Filters may be seated horizontally or vertically in a metal rack.

Step 4: Inspect the air handler or duct boot where the return duct meets the unit. Some systems have filter slides accessible from the side or bottom of the cabinet.

Step 5: For packaged or rooftop units, identify and open the filter access panel on the exterior cabinet. Replace filters following manufacturer instructions and reseal panels securely.

How To Replace Concord Furnace Filters Safely

Turn off the system power before replacing the filter to prevent blower startup and to reduce the chance of electrical hazards. Safety first ensures no moving parts or live circuits are exposed.

Note filter orientation. Most filters have an airflow arrow. Install the new filter with the arrow pointing toward the furnace blower or air handler to ensure proper airflow and filtration efficiency.

Use the correct size and type. Measure the old filter or the filter slot and confirm dimensions before purchasing a replacement. Ill-fitting filters can allow bypass and reduce performance.

Close panels and restore power. After installing the filter, secure access panels and turn power back on. Check the system for proper operation and listen for unusual sounds.

Choosing The Right Filter Size And Type

Filter sizes vary from thin 1-inch filters to deep 4–6 inch media filters. Concord systems often accept standard-sized filters, but some air handlers require specific depths or pleated media designs.

Common choices include disposable fiberglass, pleated polyester, and washable electrostatic filters. Pleated filters (MERV 6–13) provide better particle capture without overly restricting airflow in most residential Concord systems.

MERV ratings indicate filtration efficiency. For homes with allergies or pets, MERV 8–11 is a typical balance between air quality and airflow. High-MERV filters (12+) may require blower capacity verification to avoid reduced airflow and system strain.

Recommended Maintenance Schedule

Monthly checks are ideal in homes with pets, smokers, or high dust levels. Filters may need replacement every 1–3 months depending on usage and indoor conditions.

For households without special contaminants, replacing pleated filters every 90 days is common. Thicker media filters can last 6–12 months but require inspection for dirt loading and airflow restriction.

Seasonal checks at the start of heating and cooling seasons help ensure the Concord system runs efficiently when demand increases.

Signs The Concord Furnace Filter Needs Replacement

• Reduced airflow: Weakened vents or uneven heating suggests a clogged filter.
• Higher utility bills: Increased energy use often results from restricted airflow causing longer run cycles.
• Visible dirt buildup: A dark or filled filter media signals immediate replacement.
• Unusual noises: Whistling or strain sounds near the blower can indicate an overloaded filter.

Troubleshooting Location And Access Issues

If a filter cannot be found behind the return grille or inside the furnace, inspect the immediate ductwork and the basement or closet air handler areas. Filters are sometimes hidden in custom filter boxes or remote return plenums.

In older homes, some return grilles may have been removed and the filter relocated. Check attics, crawlspaces, or mechanical closets for alternative filter racks or larger media filters installed by previous owners.

If access panels are painted shut or secured with nonstandard fasteners, use appropriate tools and caution. Documentation of any modifications aids future maintenance and potential resale value.

When To Call A Professional

Contact a licensed HVAC technician if the filter location remains unclear, if filters do not fit standard slots, or if installing a higher-efficiency filter causes the system to short-cycle or lose airflow.

Technicians can advise on appropriate MERV ratings, install custom filter racks, and perform airflow testing to ensure the Concord furnace operates safely and efficiently with the chosen filter type.

Common Questions About Concord Furnace Filter Location

Does Concord Use A Specific Filter Type?

Concord does not mandate a single filter brand or type. Compatibility depends on the unit model and return configuration. Most residential Concord units accept standard disposable or pleated filters in common dimensions.

Can A Higher MERV Filter Be Used?

A higher MERV filter can improve air quality but may restrict airflow if the blower is not designed for it. Verify blower capacity and consult manufacturer guidelines before upgrading beyond MERV 11 for typical residential systems.

How Often Should Concord Filters Be Replaced?

Replacement frequency depends on filter type and indoor conditions. Inspect filters monthly and replace disposable filters every 1–3 months. Media filters may last 6–12 months with regular checks.

Tips To Improve Filter Access And Performance

• Label the filter size and replacement date on the furnace cabinet to simplify future changes.
• Install a filter grille with a removable frame at the return to make replacements easier.
• Use pleated filters for better dust capture while balancing MERV rating and airflow.
• Keep return grilles and surrounding areas clear of furniture and obstructions to promote proper airflow.

Resources And Documentation

Always consult the furnace or air handler’s owner’s manual for model-specific guidance on filter location and compatible sizes. Manufacturer websites and local dealers provide downloadable manuals and support.

For installations involving rooftop or packaged Concord units, review mechanical schematics before servicing. Proper documentation reduces service time and minimizes the risk of damage.

Action	Recommended Frequency
Inspect Filter	Monthly
Replace Standard Pleated Filter	Every 1–3 Months
Replace Media Filter	Every 6–12 Months
Professional HVAC Inspection	Annually