Goodman AC Unit Filter Location: Find, Replace, And Maintain Your Air Conditioner Filter

Efficient home cooling begins with understanding your Goodman AC unit filter location. Knowing where your filter is and how to access it not only improves air quality, but also extends your system’s life and lowers energy costs. This guide details where to find your Goodman air filter in various unit models, offers step-by-step maintenance instructions, and explains why regular filter replacement matters for your comfort and wallet.

Quick Reference Table: Goodman AC Filter Locations & Service Tips

Goodman AC Type	Common Filter Location	Access Method	Replacement Frequency
Central Split System	Return air grille or air handler	Unscrew/slide panel or open grille	Every 1-3 months
Package Unit	Behind exterior access panel	Remove screws; lift cover	Every 1-3 months
Furnace (with AC)	Between return and blower or side/bottom panel	Slide out tray or open small panel	Every 1-3 months
Wall or Ceiling Unit	Behind intake grille	Open grille clips/latches	Every 1-3 months

Why Filter Location Matters In Your Goodman Air Conditioner

Identifying the filter location in your Goodman AC unit is essential for proper airflow, HVAC efficiency, and indoor air quality. Routine filter checks and replacements prevent dust buildup, allergen spread, and premature wear on expensive components. Neglecting the filter often leads to cooling problems, higher bills, and costly repairs.

Most Common Goodman AC Filter Locations

Goodman air conditioners are widely used in American homes and businesses. Depending on your model, the air filter may be in one of several places. Finding your specific filter location is the first step to regular and effective maintenance.

1. Central Air Split Systems

For split systems, the Goodman AC filter is typically found in two spots:

• Return Air Grille: Located on a wall or ceiling; the grille pulls in air to be cooled. The filter rests behind this grille and is accessible by opening or unclipping it.
• Air Handler or Furnace Cabinet: If not at the return grille, look inside the main HVAC unit—usually in the blower compartment or a side/bottom filter slot. A small panel or tray may slide out, revealing the filter.

2. Goodman Packaged AC Units

In packaged Goodman systems (where the entire unit sits outside or on a rooftop), the filter is usually:

• Behind An Exterior Access Panel: Unlock and remove the metal access panel marked for filter replacement. The filter is often upright, near where the return air duct connects to the unit.

3. Furnace With AC Coil (Combination Systems)

Units combining heating and cooling—using a Goodman gas furnace or electric air handler—often have the filter:

• Between The Return Duct And Furnace Blower: Look for a slot just ahead of the blower fan.
• In A Side Or Bottom Filter Rack: A slide-in filter tray may be accessible from a side panel or bottom of the furnace cabinet.

4. Wall And Ceiling-Mounted Goodman ACs

Some compact or ductless Goodman units have their filter:

• Behind The Front Intake Grille: Open the front panel or grille to reach the filter, typically a washable mesh or pleated screen.

How To Locate The Filter In Your Goodman AC Unit

To find your Goodman AC filter, follow these steps for any model:

1. Turn Off Power: For safety, switch off the thermostat and/or breaker.
2. Identify Return Air Intake: Walk through your home to find the main return grille(s) or inspect the AC/furnace cabinet for filter access slots.
3. Check Manufacturer’s Sticker Or Manual: Look for a label on the unit, often specifying filter location and size, or consult your system’s user manual.
4. Open The Access Point: Unscrew or unclasp the grille, panel, or tray covering the filter slot.
5. Remove And Inspect The Filter: Carefully slide out the filter. Note its size and airflow direction for replacement.

Pro Tip: If you can’t find your filter, search your unit’s model number online or on Goodman’s official support page for a user manual.

Step-By-Step Guide: Replacing Your Goodman AC Filter

Regular filter changes are vital. Here’s how to properly replace your filter in a Goodman air conditioner.

Tools And Supplies Needed

• New filter (check your existing filter for size and type, e.g., 16x25x1, 20x25x4)
• Flat-head screwdriver (if applicable)
• Flashlight
• Vacuum or damp cloth for cleanup

Filter Replacement Procedure

1. Shut off AC power to ensure safety.
2. Open the return air grille or the AC unit’s access panel to reach the filter.
3. Slide the old filter out. Note the airflow direction arrows on its frame.
4. Wipe out any dust or debris in the slot or grille with a vacuum or cloth.
5. Insert the new filter, aligning airflow arrows with the direction of incoming air (toward the blower/coil).
6. Close and secure the grille or access panel.
7. Switch power back on and monitor system operation.

How Often Should You Replace A Goodman AC Filter?

The recommended filter replacement interval depends on your living environment, usage, and filter type. Most Goodman units need a new filter every 1-3 months. Some high-efficiency (HEPA or MERV 11+) filters last 6-12 months but require periodic inspection. Increase replacement frequency if you:

• Have pets or allergies
• Live in a dusty region
• Smoke indoors
• Run the system continuously or have lots of occupants

Tip: Set a calendar reminder each month, or check every bill-payment cycle to stay on top of filter changes.

Common Goodman Filter Sizes And Types

Goodman AC filters are available in several standard dimensions and types:

Common Sizes (inches)	Most Used Filter Types	Filter Thickness
16×20, 16×25, 20×20, 20×25, 24×24, 14×25	Fiberglass, pleated, electrostatic, HEPA-style	1″, 2″, 4″

Always match the filter size to the dimensions marked on your old filter or inside the filter slot for optimal system performance.

How To Tell If Your Goodman AC Filter Needs Replacement

Watch for telltale signs:

• Visible dirt, dust buildup, or discoloration
• Noticeable decrease in cooling power or air flow
• Increased dust on furniture or in the air
• System running longer cycles or short cycling
• Unusual odors coming from vents

Ignoring these signs leads to higher energy use, greater wear on parts, and poor indoor air quality.

FAQs About Goodman AC Filter Location And Maintenance

Where Is The Filter In Most Goodman Air Conditioners?

In central split systems, it’s usually at the return air grille or inside the air handler. Packaged units often have the filter behind an outdoor panel. Always check your model’s documentation for exact locations.

Can I Replace The Goodman AC Filter Myself?

Yes, replacement is straightforward with basic tools. Refer to your user manual and safety guidelines. For complex repairs or hard-to-reach filters, consider hiring a licensed HVAC technician.

How Do I Find The Filter Size For My Goodman AC?

Look at the current filter’s edge—size is printed on the frame (e.g., 16x25x1). If missing, refer to the system manual or measure the slot.

Does My Goodman AC Unit Have More Than One Filter?

Some large homes with multiple returns may have several filters—one at each return grille. Always check all intake grilles or the system cabinet for multiple filter slots.

What Happens If I Don’t Replace The Filter?

Clogged filters lead to reduced air flow, frozen coils, higher energy bills, dust/allergen circulation, system breakdown, and shortened equipment lifespan.

Professional Tips For Maximizing Goodman AC Efficiency

• Choose High-Quality Pleated Filters For Better Filtration: Higher MERV-rated filters capture more particles, but do not exceed manufacturer recommendations as high resistance may harm your system.
• Jot Down Installation Dates On The Filter Frame: Helps you remember when changes are due.
• Keep Filter Slot Or Grilles Clean: Dust around the intake and filter tracks for better performance.
• Schedule Regular HVAC Tune-Ups: In addition to replacing filters, routine pro maintenance ensures all parts run efficiently. Consider biannual inspections—spring and fall.

Troubleshooting: Can’t Find Your Goodman Filter?

If your system is custom-installed or you have trouble identifying the Goodman AC filter location:

• Check each intake grille for filter slots.
• Look for filter access on both sides of the furnace or air handler.
• Inspect all exterior panels on packaged units.
• Use a smartphone light to peer into dark slots.
• Review your home’s original HVAC installation paperwork or the manufacturer’s site.

If you’re still unsure, call a certified Goodman HVAC professional to walk you through your specific system layout.

Where To Buy Replacement Goodman AC Filters

Goodman AC filters are widely available at:

• Local hardware stores (Home Depot, Lowe’s, Ace Hardware)
• Big-box retailers (Walmart, Target)
• Online (Amazon, FilterBuy, Walmart.com, Goodman direct distributors)
• HVAC supply stores and contractors

Keep your Goodman model number and filter size handy for a fast, correct purchase. Many online retailers offer bulk or subscription discounts.

Essential Takeaways For Goodman AC Filter Maintenance

• Locating the filter is crucial—check the return grille, air handler/furnace, or packaged unit panel based on your model.
• Replace the filter every 1-3 months under normal conditions, or sooner in homes with pets and high traffic.
• Match filter size and type exactly to keep your AC system efficient and your air clean.
• Regular filter changes stretch your AC’s service life and lower your energy costs.
• Consult a pro if you’re unsure about filter location or safe replacement.

Proper filter care is one of the easiest and most impactful ways to maintain comfort, efficiency, and air quality in your home—especially with a reliable Goodman AC unit.