Determining the size of an air conditioner filter can be a tricky task. It's essential to get the right size filter for your unit, as an incorrect size won't fit and will cause the filter to stop working properly. To make sure you get the right size filter, you must first measure the length, width, and depth of the inside of the air filter vent. The industry standard is to make air filters slightly larger than their groove or frame, so that they can easily slide into place without bending or breaking.
This is what is called “real dimensions”. In this case, you must round to the nearest whole number to determine the nominal size of the air filter. The actual size of the air filter should be 0.25 to 0.5 cm smaller than the slot or frame itself. Most heating, ventilation, and air conditioning air filters are 1 inch thick.
However, some homes may require thicker filters, 4 to 6 inches. These can withstand more accumulations, which means you'll have to change them less often. A thicker filter can also trap more particles than a standard filter. But sometimes, these filters can limit airflow and cause system and air quality problems.
You can find the recommended filter size for your unit model in the table titled “Find your air conditioner and oven filter by brand, model number, and size”. If the ventilation grille is on the roof, you may prefer a filter that has a slightly larger actual size, so that it doesn't fall on you when you open the vent. Don't stack several small air filters on top of each other to fit in a larger air handler. The easiest way to identify the size of an air conditioner filter is to remove the existing filter from its slot and examine the filter frame.
Fiberglass, polyester, washable, pleated and electrostatic filters offer different air filtering capabilities. When you buy air filters, you'll see the words “nominal size” and “actual size” together. If you're having trouble finding a dealer near you that sells custom-sized air filters, it's best to physically measure the old filter and its space in the unit to confirm if there is a compatible range of actual dimensions. Getting the right size filter for your air conditioner is essential for proper functioning and optimal performance. To ensure that your unit runs smoothly and efficiently, it's important to measure your existing filter before purchasing a new one.
This will help you get an accurate fit that won't cause any problems with airflow or system performance.
