Air filters are an essential part of any home system, from ovens to HVAC units. But how do you know what size air filter you need? In this article, we'll explain how to measure and identify the size of an air filter, as well as provide an overview of the different types and qualities of air filters available. The actual size of an air filter is usually ¼ to ½ inch smaller than its nominal size. To convert actual to nominal size, measure the filter and round each dimension to the nearest inch.
Step 1: Measure the length and width (L x W). If the filter is not a square, the smallest measurement comes first). All filters have two different sizes. All filters have a real size and then a nominal size.
The actual size is the exact dimensions without rounding, while the nominal size is the rounded dimensions of the filter. This means that in 1 and 2 air filters, the nominal size does not include the bottom cut and the actual size does include the bottom cut. In whole-house filters, the nominal size is the rounded size, and the actual size is only the non-rounded one. The easiest way to identify the size of the air conditioner filter is to remove the existing filter from its slot and examine the filter frame.
Usually, the filter size is printed along the edge of the filter frame. Note that the size shown in bold type on the filter frame is the nominal size of the filter, which is likely to differ from its actual size. If the actual dimensions do not appear in small print on the filter frame, we recommend measuring the filter to double check it. The filter should be slightly smaller on either side of the filter housing slot, allowing you to slide the filter in and out with ease. Filter King offers hundreds of different filter sizes that can be used in various home systems, including your oven.
HVAC service companies typically offer air filter replacement services in addition to system repair and unit installation services. From sizes to types, qualities and more, here's everything you might need to know about air filters. Most people won't be able to find the size of air filter they need at their local home improvement store. For example, Home Depot mainly carries Honeywell brand air filters, while ACE Hardware mainly carries Filtrete. If the return vent is on the roof, you may want to use a filter that has a slightly larger actual size, so that the filter does not fall on you when you open the vent. On one hand, this can greatly affect how much air pollutants are filtered out, leading to poor indoor air quality.
Before wasting time with HVAC unit manipulator or return air central ventilation, first adjust your thermostat to turn off your air conditioning system. However, if your filter frames are not installed correctly or are not of correct size, this can cause air leaks which significantly decreases its effectiveness. If you have a 1 or 2 air filter that isn't on this list, you probably need a custom cut which your local hardware store definitely can't help you with. If you're looking for a retailer near you that sells custom-sized air filters, you might be struggling to get lucky. Rensa Filtration is a family of air filtration companies that manufacture and market best-in-class solutions that keep people safe and industries thriving.