If you can't find a standard size filter within the parameters of your HVAC system, you'll need to order a custom-sized air filter. Using an incorrectly sized air filter won't necessarily damage your system, but it will reduce its efficiency and increase your utility bills. Filters only work if air has to pass through them, and if there is a gap of 1, a disproportionate amount of air will flow through the hole, worsening the situation. When choosing an air filter for your HVAC system, there are several things to consider.
The MERV rating of an air filter is a measure of how effective it is at removing particulates from the air. A higher MERV rating indicates that the filter has a finer mesh and is capable of removing smaller particles from the air. However, you should not use a filter with a higher rating than what your unit is designed for, as the mesh may be too thin for the HVAC system to blow air through it properly. It's important to use the right size air filter for your HVAC unit to keep the system running smoothly and reap all the benefits offered by your air filter.
If you can't find a standard size filter within that parameter, you'll need to order a custom-sized one. If your oven has an air filter on the return grille, changing the filter is easy, as it can be done from inside your home. Once you have determined the exact dimensions that work best for you, place an order for the filter size with the exact fraction or decimal of your preferred measurements. Originally manufactured for NASA, Colorfil filters help remove chemicals and odors at a molecular level that normal air filters cannot achieve.
If you're looking for a retailer near you that sells custom-sized air filters, you might be struggling to get lucky. In this case, you'll want to round down to the nearest whole number to determine the nominal air filter size. In the long run, it is much cheaper to replace the filter regularly rather than having to replace the entire air conditioner. Using an incorrectly sized air filter won't necessarily damage your HVAC system immediately, but it does have an impact on its efficiency and longevity.
It's essential to use the right size air filters for your HVAC unit in order to keep it running smoothly and reap all its benefits.