The Ultimate Guide To Air Filter Sizes: The Choice Is Yours!
Contents
There are many different reasons you may want air filters, whether it’s for allergies, second-hand smoke, illnesses etc.
Because of that, and because they come in many forms and types, knowing exactly which one to choose can be confusing.
Compiling a list of pros and cons and then trawling the web for reviews, price comparisons and ratings doesn’t sound fun.
We’ve done the hard part for you and aim to answer queries and simplify the process to get you the perfect air filter and air filter sizes for you.
What is an Air Filter and How Do They Work?
As the name suggests, air filters do just that, filter air. These work by in taking the air, passing it through a cleaning mechanism and simply pumping out the clean air.
This process, unlike water, doesn’t use chemicals to cleanse the air but instead filters out the bad stuff.
Americans spend about 90% of their time indoors, according to the EPA.
The EPA also notes that some indoor pollutants are often two to five times higher than typical outdoor levels, so cleaner indoor air is worth some thought.
Whole house filters are one way to cleanse and purify air throughout a home.
Keep in mind that a furnace or HVAC filter only cleans air while the system is running, which the EPA says is often less than 25% of the time during heating and cooling seasons.
They get built into the duct work of a forced-air heating or central air-conditioning system turning them into air vent filters and filtering the entire house.
These need professional installation depending on your type of filter and come in four different types.
View Our Air Purifier Reviews Here
Types Of Filter
Whole house filters come in four different types, and the type of filter will indicate what size filters you’ll need to replace them.
To begin with, you’ll need to understand what different types of air filters there are.
Flat Filters
These are ready to go air conditioning and heating systems which contribute to whole-house filtration through a thin filter vent.
The EPA says filters commonly need replacing every 60 to 90 days, or sooner if they look dirty. A filter should fit snugly in its slot without being bent.
Check the MERV rating too. The EPA recommends MERV 13 or higher, or the highest rating your system can handle; an HVAC technician can confirm what fits.
One popular option is the [Filtrete Clean Living Basic Dust Filter](https://www.amazon.com/Filtrete-Living-Filter-1-Inches-6-Pack/dp/B002CJN0H2/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8 HYPERLINK ), which is sold on Amazon.
This product comes in multiple sizes so you’ll easily find the one you need.
Extended Media Filters
These are an improved version of the Flat Filters. Stacking the thin filters provides more opportunities for catching dust and particles.
These usually need professional installation.
Because the filter media is thicker, it typically lasts longer between changes than a thin flat filter. Follow the manufacturer's replacement schedule.
Electronic Air Cleaning
This works by using an electrical charge to clean the air. This process follows a kind of sorting mechanism.
The electrical current disrupts stagnant dust and particles making them become electrically charged and pass through a filter, being caught by a metal plate with the opposite charge.
This usually needs professional installation.
Electronic air cleaners use washable collector plates instead of disposable filters, so check the maker's cleaning schedule.
One caution: the EPA warns that electrostatic precipitators and ionizers may emit ozone, which irritates the lungs. Choose a model tested to emit little or no ozone, such as one on the California Air Resources Board (CARB) list.
Ultraviolet (UV) Air Cleaners
These target mold, fungus, bacteria etc. Ultraviolet air cleaners are often installed as additions to an electronic system.
UV lamps are used in some healthcare settings, but how well they work in a home system depends on the design.
The EPA notes that research has not shown UV to remove gases effectively in home air cleaners, and UV lamps without proper coatings can produce ozone.
What Size Do I Need?
Now you know exactly what type of air filter you have or perhaps want, simply follow this link to see how to measure your filter.
With this you’ll know what air filter sizes you require.
Alternative Options
Also available as portable devices, this is great for those of you who don’t have central air conditioning or heating.
Portable units are usually the cheaper option.
When you shop, look for a HEPA filter and a clean air delivery rate (CADR) matched to your room size. The EPA notes that a higher CADR filters more air.
Sources
- Guide to Air Cleaners in the Home, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
- Indoor Air Quality, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
