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Does air filter depth matter?

Asked by: Cristian Morla

asked in category: General Last Updated: 14th June, 2020

Does air filter depth matter?

If improving air quality is a priority for you, depth of the filter doesn’t matter so much as MERV. The higher the MERV rating, the smaller the contaminants a filter can trap—which also means it will clog faster.

Hereof, what happens if you use the wrong size air filter?

Incorrect Air Filter SizeAnother issue that can lead to reduced indoor air quality and put a strain on your air conditioning and heating system is when you use the wrong size air filter. HVAC air filters come in all different sizes.

Subsequently, question is, can an air filter be too big? If you purchase a filter that’s too large, it won’t slide into the slot correctly. If the filter is too small, it won’t cover the entire space and may allow dust and dirt to flow past.

Also to know is, does thickness of air filter matter?

Most air filters are 1 inch thick, but some systems can accommodate filters 2 to 5 inches thick. In our tests, we found that the thicker the filter, the better it works and the longer the replacement intervals. That means it’s better for you and for your HVAC system.

What happens if I put my furnace filter in backwards?

By installing your filter backwards, air will have a harder time flowing through the filter and your air handler will have to work harder to make up for the loss of airflow. That arrow must always face toward the furnace and away from the return duct that carries the air in need of heating or cooling.

32 Related Question Answers Found

Can I cut an air filter to fit?

Should you cut HVAC air filters to fit the space? The answer – NO! The purpose of the HVAC air filter is to keep the system clean. Yes, the TV commercials say that if you use this or that filter the air in the house will be cleaner and your children will be healthier.

Is MERV 8 good enough?

MERV 5–8 (good): These filters are better at catching small particles (3–10 microns) like mold spores, hair spray, dust mites and animal dander. MERV 9–12 (better): The best option for residential use. Particles this small include bacteria, tobacco smoke and even the contaminants in sneezes.

What is the most common air filter size?

While there are no standard furnace filter sizes that will fit all models, the most common filter dimensions include: 10 X 20. 14 X 20. 16 X 24. 18 X 30. 12 X 12. 14 X 24. 16 X 25. 20 X 20.

Can I use a 1 inch filter instead of 4 inch?

While a 4-inch-thick filter is more efficient than a 1-inch filter, the right size depends on your furnace. If you measure the filter slot, and it’s large enough to accommodate the thicker filter, then you can use it. However, if the slot is less than 4 inches wide, you’re stuck with using that thickness.

How do I know what size air filter I need?

Take out your measuring tape and get the exact dimensions yourself. These are written as length x width x depth (for example: 18x20x1). Lay the filter flat on the ground and start by measuring top-to-bottom for length, left-to-right for width, and front-to-back for depth. You should have 3 numbers written in inches.

How do I find out the size of my air filter?

Follow these 3 easy steps: Follow these 3 easy steps: Step 1 – Measuring Length and Width (L x W). Step 2 – Measure the thickness of your filter from front to back. Step 3 – Put Your Measurements Together (L x W x D). It’s as simple as that – You are now ready to buy the right filter for your AC or Furnace.

Does arrow on air filter go up or down?

On your new air filter, find the arrow that indicates the proper air flow direction. This tends to confuse everyone more than anything else. That arrow must always face toward the furnace and away from the return duct that carries the air in need of heating or cooling.

How do you put an AC filter in?

How to Install an Air Filter Remove the plastic from the filter—don’t remove the cardboard framing. Find the airflow arrow and point it toward the AC/heating blower. Insert the filter into its slot [central unit]. Insert the filter into its slot [wall unit]

Can I put filters on my air vents?

Do not put filters in your supply vents. Your AC system should have a proper fitting filter on the return side. By placing a good fitting, high quality filter on the return vent, you will remove particles from the air before they can enter the AC system.

Where should I place my air purifier?

Place the air purifier where the air can circulate freely in, out, and around the unit, away from walls, furniture and other objects that may stop the air flow. Recommendations for the placement of your air purifier: Place it at least 10 cm/4 inches away from any potential obstacles. Avoid corners.

How do I know my furnace filter size?

Furnace filters are sized by width, length and thickness. The size on the filter is usually expressed in inches (example: 16″x20″x1″). A filter that is the wrong size will typically not fit, or may not stay in place, once installed. The owner’s manual for your furnace should tell you what size you need.

Does air filter affect AC in house?

A dirty air filter restricts the flow of cold air, causing it to build up inside the air conditioner and lower the internal temperature. Uneven Cooling: Even if it’s not enough to cause freezing, that restricted airflow isn’t good for your air conditioner’s cooling power.

How do I change my air filter?

How to Change Your Air Filter Buy your air filter. Most air filters are pretty cheap. Open your hood and locate the air filter box. It’s the black plastic box sitting on top of or to the side of your engine. Open the air filter box and remove the dirty air filter. Check the old air filter. Put in the new air filter.

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