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. This means it's better for you and your heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. Thick air filters may automatically seem like the best option, but is it really true?Thicker means more filtration, right? In most situations, that is the case.
Thicker air filters tend to last longer because they have more square meters to capture and retain air particles. To put it into perspective, a 1-inch air filter may need to be changed every month, while a 4-inch air filter could last up to six months. The short answer? A 4-inch filter will last longer and provide better air quality for your home. Replacing the standard one-inch air filter with a 5-inch pleated filter can improve the air quality inside your home. This is because larger air filters have higher MERV ratings, leading to better filtration of contaminants and allergens.
In other words, the thicker the filter, the more dirt it can hold. And, therefore, you can enjoy a wider range of filter frequency replacement. The 4-inch thick air filter has a definite advantage over filter 1 in terms of longevity, airflow and maximum filtering potential. So you'll not only clean the air better, but you'll get a lot more airflow than standard one-inch ones. Regardless of the length and width, it is the thickness that determines the surface area of the filter.
A little over 10 years ago, manufacturers began to put more folds (or folds) on air filters and increase their surface area. A deeper depth can also improve filter life and efficiency; they also make it easier for air to enter and exit the filter. Fine particles of dust and dirt accumulate in the heat exchangers and cooling coils of the furnace, blocking the flow of air. Unfortunately, many people don't take off or clean their filters as often as they really should. So, if you choose a filter 1 with a high MERV rating, you'll have to change it every month or two when the oven, heat pump, or air conditioner is heavily used. The clear conclusion is that size does matter when it comes to the thickness of your oven filter.
It is a known fact that the standard dimensions of the furnace filter (length and width) have nothing to do with its efficiency. The combination of a thin air filter with a high MERV rating can also restrict airflow to the point of impairing efficiency and causing excessive wear and tear. In conclusion, if you want to ensure that your home has clean air circulating through it at all times, then investing in a thicker air filter is definitely worth considering. Not only will it last longer than thinner filters, but it will also provide better filtration of contaminants and allergens. So don't forget to check your size filter when shopping for an air filter!.
