Replacing the Filter on a Carrier Performance 80 Furnace

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To replace a filter on a Carrier Performance 80 Furnace, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the furnace: Before replacing the filter, make sure the furnace is turned off to prevent any accidents or damage.

2. Locate the filter: The filter is usually located near the blower motor or behind a removable panel on the furnace. Refer to the furnace manual for the exact location.

3. Remove the old filter: Carefully remove the old filter from its slot. Take note of the direction of airflow indicated on the filter frame.

4. Clean the filter slot: Use a vacuum or a damp cloth to clean any dust or debris from the filter slot.

5. Install the new filter: Insert the new filter into the slot, making sure it is oriented correctly according to the airflow direction.

6. Replace the panel and turn on the furnace: Once the new filter is properly installed, replace any removable panels and turn on the furnace.

Regularly replacing the filter on your Carrier Performance 80 Furnace ensures proper airflow and improves the overall efficiency of the system.


If you own a Carrier Performance 80 gas furnace, chances are you live in a region with a moderate climate where a high-efficiency furnace is not necessary. However, it is important to remember to regularly change the filter on your Carrier furnace for optimal performance. The Performance 80 has a fuel-utilization efficiency rating of 80, which meets the minimum standards for furnace efficiency but does not have ENERGY STAR certification. Nevertheless, it does feature a variable-speed blower that can help reduce energy costs and keep you comfortable in various weather conditions.

The Performance 80 is not a single model but a series of furnaces with different designs. The size of the filter and the process of changing it may vary depending on the specific model. The main difference in the procedure is locating the filter cover, which can be either on the side or at the bottom of the furnace housing.

Choosing the Correct Filter Size

The size of the filter you need depends on the dimensions of the furnace cabinet and the location of the air return vent (all measurements are in inches):

  • A cabinet that is 14 1/2 inches wide requires a 14 x 25 x 1 filter for a bottom return and a 16 x 25 x 1 filter for a side return.
  • A cabinet that is 17 1/2 inches wide requires a 16 x 25 x 1 filter for both side and bottom returns.
  • A cabinet that is 21 inches wide requires a 16 x 25 x 1 filter for a side return and a 20 x 25 x 1 filter for a bottom return.
  • A cabinet that is 24 1/2 inches wide requires a 16 x 25 x 1 filter for a side return and a 24 x 25 x 1 filter for a bottom return.

Keep in mind that some furnaces require two filters. If this applies to your furnace, you can find specific information in the owner’s manual, which is available on Carrier’s website if you no longer have the printed copy.

Steps to Replace the Filter

Carrier recommends turning off the furnace before replacing the filter to prevent the blower from turning on while the filter is removed. If there is no easily accessible furnace switch, you can turn off the breaker in the main panel that controls the furnace.

The next step is to locate the filter door, which is usually easy to find. If you are unsure, consult the owner’s manual for guidance. The filter door may or may not have a thumbscrew. If there is no thumbscrew, simply grasp the door on both sides and pull it open. Once the door is open, pull the filter straight out. The filter is not attached to anything and is lightweight, so this should be a simple task.

If the replacement filter has an arrow indicating the direction of airflow, make sure to install it with the arrow pointing towards the blower. Installing the filter involves sliding it into place on the rack and closing the door on the housing.

Cleaning Washable Filters

Some filters are washable and will indicate so on the filter frame. To clean a washable filter, use cold water from a kitchen or bathroom sink faucet or a garden hose. If the filter is heavily soiled, you may also use a mild detergent. Always spray water in the opposite direction of the airflow and allow the filter to dry completely for a day or two before reinstallation.

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