Why Does Furnace Filter Thickness Matter?
Furnace filters come in a variety of sizes. Selecting the right size furnace filter is important to ensure it delivers maximum benefits. Some standard furnace filter sizes are more common than others. For not so common furnace filter sizes, you can order custom filters. In addition to choosing the right size, you can choose a filter with a sufficient MERV rating to meet your needs. The higher the MERV rating, the smaller the particles the filter can trap. Read on as we explore furnace filters by size and how to choose the right one.
What Are the Standard Sizes for Furnace Filters?
Some furnace filter sizes are more common than others. Determining the size furnace filter you need is an important step to take before shopping for a furnace filter. Standard furnace filter sizes include 1 inch filters, 2 and 3 inch filters, 4 inch filters, and 5 inch filters. If you’re struggling to find your furnace filter size, you may need to order a custom furnace filter. Ensuring you use the right furnace filter size can help you maximize the benefits.
How Do I Measure My Furnace Filter Size?
To measure your furnace filter size, you’ll first want to remove your furnace filter. Most furnace filters are located between the return air duct and furnace assembly or near a removable door. Once you’ve removed the filter you can check the frame to see if a size is printed anywhere. If it’s not, measure the filter by: length x width x thickness. Alternatively, you may be able to locate the furnace filter size in the owner’s manual for the system. However, it’s inevitable that the furnace filter will need replacement sooner than later so learning where it is and how to remove it can prepare you for replacement.
Why Is Selecting the Right Furnace Filter Size Important?
Choosing the right size furnace filter is important to ensuring adequate airflow, maximum protection against contaminants, and achieving maximum system performance. A furnace filter that’s too small may not adequately filter air and a filter too large can restrict airflow. Furnace filters do more than just improve air quality. They can help systems operate more efficiently, too. Replacing an HVAC system is costly so investing the time into finding the right size furnace filter can pay off.
What Factors Should I Consider When Choosing a Furnace Filter Size?
Let’s review some of the factors to consider when purchasing a furnace filter.
#1. Size: Most furnace filter sizes are displayed as length x width x thickness. It’s common to shop first by thickness, and narrow down the length and width from there.
#2. Quality: Furnace filters can vary in quality and capability. A furnace filter with a higher MERV rating can trap smaller contaminants, deeming it higher quality.
#3. Future replacement: Most furnace filters require replacement every 1-3 months. Once you’ve selected the best furnace filter, stock up or subscribe for autoship to save yourself time when replacement rolls around.
Can I Use a Non-Standard Furnace Filter Size?
All that really matters is that you use the right size furnace filter for your system. Some systems use non-standard furnace filter sizes that require customization.
How Often Should I Replace My Furnace Filter Based on Its Size?
Most furnace filters require replacement every 1-3 months. The size of a furnace filter usually does not impact the frequency it needs to be changed. Factors that can affect the longevity of a furnace filter include how often it’s used, environmental factors, personal preferences, and more. In some cases, a furnace filter can be cleaned to maximize efficiency without replacing the filter. Eventually though most air filters will need to be replaced.
Are Custom Furnace Filter Sizes Available for Unique HVAC Systems?
Custom furnace filters are available for unique HVAC systems. You may also choose to customize to get the desired MERV rating for the right size filter.
What Are the Common Mistakes When Choosing Furnace Filter Sizes?
One of the most common mistakes when choosing a furnace filter is taking incorrect measurements or guessing. Furnace filters should be measured as length x width x thickness. Round up to whole numbers if necessary. If you can’t locate the right filter size, reach out for help or shop custom furnace filters.
How Does Filter Size Affect HVAC System Performance?
The right size furnace filter can help your HVAC system operate efficiently. The furnace filter has a designated spot in the HVAC system. The filter should fit perfectly into the space, as this is how the system was designed. If the filter is too small or too large it can restrict airflow and or cause the HVAC system to use more energy. Similarly, an air filter requiring replacement can also cause your HVAC system to work harder.
What Tools Are Needed to Measure Furnace Filter Size Accurately?
To measure a furnace filter, you’ll likely only need a tape measure. In most cases, you won’t need any tools to remove the filter. Therefore, once you have the filter in hand, you can get to measuring. Remember, measure your furnace filter by length x width x thickness. If measuring in between, round up.
Can Filter Size Impact Energy Efficiency of My Furnace?
If you’re using a furnace filter that’s the wrong size for your system, it can cause the system to work harder. Furnace filters that are too small or too large can restrict airflow. As a result, your system may have to work harder and utilize more energy to circulate air. In addition, a dirty filter can also cause the HVAC system to work harder.
Conclusion
In summary, thickness is part of the measurement used for air filters in addition to length and width. Using the right size furnace filter contributes to an efficiently operating HVAC system that can produce the best possible air quality. At Air Filters Delivered, you can find quality air filters of all sizes that can be shipped right to your door. Subscribe and save to keep your favorite air filters coming on a regular basis without thought.
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