Loose screws in ceiling air conditioner filter frame.

[Herb]

Hard time keeping the screws in the ceiling plastic frame that holds air conditioner filter. Screws just go up into the styrofoam of the roof. Have become loose over time and will not stay tight or won't tighten at all.

Wondered if anyone had come up with a solution?

First timer here.

[ThomB]

toothpicks. Believe it or not shoving a couple wooden toothpick parts (broken in 1/2) into the opening then tightening the screw will work. I just did this a few weeks ago on our front A/C filter cover.

[Herb]

Thank you for your reply. I will try that the next time I clean the filters.

[jbrattain]

I have the same problem. The screws barely hold, at best, and occasionally slip out a thread or two. Repairing the problem is on my winter project list. I'm going to investigate types of anchor inserts at my hardware store. They have a large variety of them, and have solved several problems in the past. If I'm successful, I'll post the results.

[DuaneMiller]

i was having the same issue. I would find the screws on the floor after I reach my destination. They would simply fall out of the holes.

I picked up a pack of plastic wall anchors at Lowe’s. I used the size that would accept the screw sizes that were used for the existing A/C grill. Works like a champ!

[jbrattain]

Thanks, good to know. I thought something like that would work.

[BSchulz]

My solution was to cut a thin galvanized triangle of sufficient size to not only incorporate solid material, but allow for a hole to attach the screw for the cover. 2 screws into the framework and one for the cover this allowed me to install the screw for the filter into solid material tight enough so as not to vibrate loose. eventually did it to all 4 corners on both air conditioners.

[Rorytug]

Originally Posted by Herb

Hard time keeping the screws in the ceiling plastic frame that holds air conditioner filter. Screws just go up into the styrofoam of the roof. Have become loose over time and will not stay tight or won't tighten at all.

Wondered if anyone had come up with a solution?

First timer here.

Same here, used plastic anchors, just tap them into the existing hole. Many of us have them laying around the house that came with things we purchased over the years. If not, any hardware store, including walmart and some grocery. https://www.homedepot.com/p/Everbilt...-204273429-_-N

[Herb]

My concern is the plastic inserts in that Styrofoam when tighten will just ream out. Anybody see that?