Can I use a 5-inch filter instead of 4?

Going down in thickness by an inch shouldn’t be a big deal – for example, you should be able to use a 4-inch filter instead of a 5-inch filter. If you are considering a thicker air filter in order to improve air quality it may be better to focus on the MERV rating.

Are 5-inch filters better?





Better Airflow

One of the amazing benefits of a 5-inch filter is its ability to facilitate better airflow. Think of it this way: 5-inch air filters are fine enough to block harmful pollutant particles, but they’re big enough to prevent impeding proper air circulation in your home.

Can I use a 1 furnace filter instead of 4?

Question: Can i use a 1 inch filter instead of 4 inches? Answer: If you are okay with more frequent replacement and little stress on the system, 1โ€ filter can be budget-friendly alternative of 4โ€ filters.

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 often should I change a 5 inch furnace filter?





How Often Is Changing Furnace Filters Necessary?

  1. For 1- to 2-inch filters, replace them every 1 to 3 months.
  2. For 3- to 4-inch filters, replace them every 6 to 9 months.
  3. For 5- to 6-inch filters, replace them every 9 to 12 months.

How often do you have to change 5 inch furnace filter?

every nine to 12 months

If you have a thicker model, the filter life extends. For 3- and 4-inch filters, plan for a replacement about every six to nine months. If you have the larger 5- or 6-inch filters, they will need replacing every nine to 12 months.

What happens if your furnace filter is too small?



If the filter is too small, it won’t cover the entire space and may allow dust and dirt to flow past. If you’re not sure what size filter you need, check the manufacturer’s specifications or ask your HVAC technician for help choosing the right product.

Does furnace filter size matter?

Does Size Matter? You’ve guessed it! The answer is yes. It is essential to use the right size air filter for your HVAC unit to keep your system running smoothly and to reap all the benefits your air filter has to offer.

Are 2 inch furnace filter better than 1 inch?

Well, the thicker the filter the less restrictive it is. This contributes to a better flow of purified air. This means that 2-inch furnace filters allow a better flow of air than 1-inch filters.

Can a furnace filter be too thick?



When too dense of a filter is used in an HVAC system that doesn’t require that degree of resistance, it may restrict the needed airflow and make your furnace work harder. This will not only worsen its efficiency but may also lead to further damages.

How tight should a furnace filter fit?

How tight should a Furnace Filter fit? When you remove the existing filter, take note of the dimensions printed on its frame. Your new filter will need to match this size for the system to run efficiently. It should fit snugly but not so tight that you can’t easily slide the filter in and out.

Do air filters have to be exact size?

Since air filters are most often sold by their nominal dimensions, it is crucial to learn how to properly measure your air filter. When making your purchase, you should order your filter by its nominal size, rather than its actual size.

Is it OK to change furnace filter while its running?

1. To Change Your Home Air Filter, You’ll Need To Turn Off Your Furnace. To prevent the HVAC unit from turning on while you are changing the filter, make sure you turn the thermostat to the โ€œoffโ€ position. This will help protect your HVAC system from loose debris or maybe a loose filter fitting escaping into the duct.

How do I know what size furnace filter I need?



The easiest way to find out what size filter to get for your furnace is to simply remove your current filter and look at its dimensions. These are typically printed along one of the sides of your filter.