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. When the HVAC unit is forced to work harder, it consumes more energy, leading to increased utility bills.
You cannot use a 20x25x4 filter in place of a 20x25x5 filter because the thickness is different. The 20x25x5 filter is designed for specific systems that require extra thickness for proper airflow and filtration. Always use the filter size recommended by your HVAC system's manufacturer to ensure optimal performance.
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.
If your filter doesn't fit properly, it can interfere with the flow of air from the system to your home. Your air filter may also get sucked into the system, causing damage. Improper installation of the filter or the absence of a filter allows dust and other debris to build up inside the system.
If the air filter is the wrong size, unfiltered air can slip around the opening. Dirt can build up on the mass airflow sensor. With the sensor clogged, the engine can no longer determine how much fuel to mix for proper combustion. This will trigger the engine light.
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. When the HVAC unit is forced to work harder, it consumes more energy, leading to increased utility bills.
If you set your filter up backwards, the normally collective end of the device will not face the air supply. In effect, your filter will help keep debris in the air. This results in a clogged filter and improperly cleaned air when it reaches your lungs.
If the air filter is too large, it will cause the system to run slowly and reduce the efficiency of the filtration process.
This might seem like a small detail, but cutting an air filter down to a smaller size can sometimes damage the structural integrity of the filter. This is especially true for higher-end filters. The filter size should be listed in the instructional manual that came with your HVAC unit.
While you can technically use a different size air filter, it's not recommended. An ill-fitting filter can allow unfiltered air to pass, reducing your system's efficiency and potentially causing damage. Always use the manufacturer's recommended filter size.
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.
The easiest way to know which size you need is to open the engine air-filter housing, remove the filter, and bring it with you to the auto parts counter. You can also check in your owner's manual for the air filter part number or look it up online.
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.
Fortunately, most 20x25x4 air filters last between six to eight months. By that calculation, the average homeowners will not need more than two 20x25x4 air filters in any given year. In contrast, a one-inch air filter will need to be changed every two to three months.
Do Higher MERV Filters Restrict Airflow? The higher a MERV filter, the more it filters the air with better efficiency. This means that a higher MERV will restrict airflow. However, unless your system is older, this might not be an issues for your home.
Yes, the size of your air filter can impact the noise level of your HVAC system. If it's too small, it could strain the system, causing it to work harder and produce more noise.
Furnace filters should fit securely but should not have to be forced into position. If you have to force the filter into its slot, then it is probably too big.
Using a filter that is too large or too small could result in air flowing around the filter (air bypass), resulting in unfiltered air recirculating into your home or office. If your HVAC system already has a filter being used check the filter for any printed sizing information.
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.
With so many air filter sizes to choose from, many of us have often found ourselves in this predicament; buying a filter that ends up not being the right size for our HVAC duct system. Is it okay to cut an air filter to fit? Well, it can be done, but keeping a few key stipulations in mind is important.
What Is a Standard Air Filter Size? A standard air filter size for home HVAC systems is often 20" x 20" x 1". However, the size can vary greatly depending on the specific system. Always measure your existing filter or check your system manual to ensure you get the right size.
How Tightly Should My Air Filter Fit? If you have to bend, force, or jam your air filter into place: your filter is too big. On the other hand, if your filter does not come within 1-2 fingers' width of all four corners of your air system handler's slot or frame: your filter is too small.
The air filter comes with a little arrow that indicates the filter's orientation. It is as important to fit the filter correctly as it is to choose the right one. Depending on your level of expertise, it is recommended to call in a professional to set up your air filter so that you do not mess it up.
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.