How do I know what size my AC filter is?
The easiest way to identify your AC filter size is to remove the existing filter from its slot and examine the frame of the filter. Usually, the filter size is printed along the edge of the filter’s frame.
What is the standard home air filter size?
For example: 16x20x1, 20x20x1, 16x25x1, 20x20x1 are all standard sized air filters. Every unit has a specific sized filter which allows the it to perform correctly and efficiently. Most AC and HVAC units use standard sized filters, but some do require a custom size air filter to be purchased and installed.
Does AC filter 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.
Where is the filter located for home AC unit?
The filter usually fits in a slot on the air return side of the unit. These systems are usually found in smaller basements or crawl spaces where space is limited. The filter typically slides into a slot above or below the HVAC unit.
What happens if you use the wrong size air filter?
When you use the wrong size air filter, or you install it incorrectly, the filter can’t effectively prevent dust from accumulating on the system’s motors and blowers. You’ll end up with a dirty furnace that can’t properly perform, and all of that debris could end up harming the system’s internal components.
Can you use a different size air filter?
If your unit has a standard filter slot (typically located near the blower unit) you can select a filter size within 1/8-in – 5/8-in. smaller than the two longest sides. As mentioned above, you can also choose a longer filter as there is no door or cover that needs to be closed over the filter.
What size are most AC filters?
Here are some of the most common furnace and AC filter sizes: 10 X 20 X 1” 14 X 20 X 1” 16 X 24 X 1”
What is the most common size air filter?
Currently, the most common size furnace filters are 10×20. But should your system need custom sized air filters, note that we offer custom sizing ranging from 8 x 24 x 1 to 25 x 30 x 1.
What is a size a air filter?
The actual size is an air filter’s exact size. If you measure your filter with a measuring tape, you’ll get the actual size. An air filter’s actual size is usually ¼ to ½ inch less than its nominal size. To convert from actual to nominal size, measure your filter and round each dimension up to the nearest inch.
How many filters does an AC unit have?
two
In fact, most central AC units have two or more filters. These filters clean the air and ensure good air quality as your unit circulates between inside and outside air. Central air conditioner filters often are made of fiberglass or pleated materials.
How often should air filters be changed?
every 90 days
Generally, most air filter manufacturers and HVAC companies recommend changing your air filter every 90 days, or 3 months. That can change based on where your home is located (ex. dusty, dry climates), if you have any pets, and the age of your system and equipment.
Where is the filter on my outside AC unit?
Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: To change the filter. Simply remove the old filter from the main unit or the air return pay attention to how the old filter is oriented.
Do all home AC units have filters?
All central heating and cooling systems should have an air filter, but the filter can be harder to locate on some HVAC units than others. The air filter is usually located in the return air duct or blower compartment before the return air reaches the air handler.
Where should I place my air filter?
The best place to put an air purifier is somewhere in your breathing zone. The closer the unit is to your head, the shorter distance clean air has to travel before it reaches you. In the bedroom, this usually translates to putting the air purifier on a nightstand or small table close to the bed.
Can I use a 1 inch 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, 1” filter can be budget-friendly alternative of 4” filters.
Is a 2 inch filter better than a 1 inch?
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 heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system.
Can I use a 2 inch filter instead of a 1 inch filter?
As you can see the 2 inch filter will serve our needs MUCH better than the 1 inch filter. Even if the duct system is in good shape, using this filter will keep the system from struggling.
Does MERV 11 restrict airflow?
Be aware, too, that some retailers also use their own rating system instead of MERV. A decade ago, it used to be that if you had an HVAC system that used panel filters rated 6 through 9 MERV, putting in a MERV 11 or higher filter would restrict airflow (known as filter pressure drop).
