In some cases, your intake vents or air handler vents have a filter depth greater than an inch. Because 1 inch air filters are the most common, some homeowners may think it's okay to layer 1 inch air filters to fit a 2-, 3-, or 4-inch air filter slot. It's not recommended to do this.
In conclusion, while the idea of stacking two filters might seem like a shortcut to better air quality, it can lead to more harm than good. We recommend investing in a single, high-quality filter from RememberTheFilter.com to ensure the health and efficiency of your HVAC system.
You should only ever be using one filter at a time. Multiple filters or overly thick filters can put a strain on your blower motor and cause it to fail prematurely.
actual size of an air filter can affect filter compatibility if it doesn't fit properly into the HVAC system filter slot. Ensuring the actual size aligns with your HVAC system's requirements, even when the nominal size matches, is important if you want system efficiency, proper filtration, and the best performance.
A 1 inch filter, with its smaller surface area, may have limitations in effectively trapping dust, pollen, and other contaminants compared to a thicker 2 inch filter. This could result in reduced filtration efficiency and potentially lower air quality.
This extra depth gives the filter more room for airflow. That means that as the filter collects dirt and other debris from your air, it won't restrict the airflow in your furnace as much. This prevents damage to the furnace and gives the filter itself a longer lifespan.
For 1- to 2- inch filters, replace them every 1 to 3 months. For 3- to 4- inch filters, replace them every 6 to 9 months. For 5- to 6- inch filters, replace them every 9 to 12 months.
If you try to use a 4-inch thick air filter for a system that's made for a 1-inch thick filter the efficiency will actually be worse. Not to mention, components could get damaged in the process. On the other side, you can certain use a 1-inch thick filter in compartments that can accommodate a deeper filter.
Air Filter Sizes
Actual is the filter's exact size. In addition to standard height and width dimensions, air filters also vary by thickness. They can be less than one inch thick or up to six inches thick. Not every HVAC system can accommodate thicker filters, as the most common sizes are 1-inch thick.
Is it OK to use a smaller air filter? No, it's not okay to use a smaller air filter.
In some cases, your intake vents or air handler vents have a filter depth greater than an inch. Because 1 inch air filters are the most common, some homeowners may think it's okay to layer 1 inch air filters to fit a 2-, 3-, or 4-inch air filter slot. It's not recommended to do this.
Remember, stacking filters should be done with caution, as it can introduce unwanted effects like vignetting, especially with wide-angle lenses. Also, stacking can reduce overall image quality due to additional glass elements in front of the lens.
Rinse off the reusable air filter with plain, warm water. Since you are reusing the filter, using distilled water is the best option, but tap water can be used if you find that more convenient. Soap up the reusable air filter with a gentle household detergent.
Follow the 2/3 Rule
It would be best to have an air cleaner with a smoke CADR of at least 80. For wild fire smoke, AHAM recommends a Smoke CADR equal to the size of the room in square feet. Using an air cleaner with a higher CADR in that room will simply clean the air more often and faster.
With the 2 inch pleated filter, even though it is smaller, we have a static pressure of 0.158” WC. 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.
Damage to the HVAC System
Reduced Efficiency of the System: An improperly sized air filter can create an imbalance in the airflow, which means the system may not operate at its designed efficiency.
Thicker air filters tend to last longer because they have more surface area in which to capture and hold air particles. As a result, a one-inch air filter may need to be changed monthly, whereas a four-inch air filter could last up to six months.
UNDERSTANDING FILTER SIZES
Therefore, for example, a 16x25x4 filter is 16 inches long, 25 inches wide, and 4 inches thick. It's important to note that filters with different dimensions are not interchangeable due to variations in frame size and media area.
Larger area for catching debris: 5-inch air filters offer a thick surface area of accordion-shaped material to catch all the dirt you want to keep away from your family. For cleaner air, the thicker filter provides less debris slipping through the cracks.
Change Your Filters Regularly
For example, a one inch furnace filter should be changed out every one to three months.
What Is the Most Common Size of Air Filter for a House? The most common size air filter for a house is usually 20 x 20 x 1, but this can vary depending on the specific HVAC system installed.
If an air filter is too big for the slot in your HVAC system, it won't fit properly and may allow unfiltered air to bypass the filter. This can let in dust, allergens, and other particles, reducing indoor air quality. You may also damage an oversized filter when installing it.
Well, 4-inch filters have larger pleats. That means they have more surface area to catch particles, making them last 3–5 times longer than 1-inch filters. Most HVAC technicians recommend changing 1-inch air filters every 30 days, while 4-inch filters can be changed every 3–6 months.
Yes, you can use a 2 inch air filter if your HVAC system is designed for a 2 inch filter. Not all homes will accommodate 2 inch furnace filters, so if your system uses any other thickness, then a two inch air filter would not be recommended.
Changing your filters every 3 months is the way to maintain proper airflow, efficient operation, and great indoor air quality throughout your home.