Air filters come in many different shapes and sizes because the HVAC industry does not have a universal standard for these essential components. The filter size is determined by the finished size of the HVAC unit, which means standard-sized air filters won’t always fit.
Custom Air Filters
Some homeowners assume that finding custom air filters will be a huge hassle, but the good news is that it doesn’t have to be. Homeowners can read on to find out everything they need to know about custom air filters and how to use them.
When to Use Custom Air Filters
An air filter will do no good at all if it doesn’t cover the entire opening in the air filter housing. Homeowners should check standard-sized filters first. If they can’t find one that fits to within ⅝” of the size of the filter housing, one of the many custom options available from Filter King can provide the perfect solution.
Size Matters
The purpose of an HVAC air filter is to keep the air that enters the living spaces of the home as clean as possible. Air filters don’t just prevent dust and other particulates from circulating through the home, either. They also stop contaminants from building up on the HVAC system’s drip pan, fan motor, and coil, which can lead to more frequent breakdowns and costly repairs.
If an air filter doesn’t fit the unit properly, 100% of the air won’t get treated. Instead of being filtered out, dust, allergens, and airborne pollutants will bypass the filter, enter the ventilation system, and get circulated throughout the home and the HVAC unit’s air registers. Custom-sized air filters provide a perfect solution to this problem.
Understanding Filter Dimensions
Each air filter has its length, width, and depth dimensions printed on its frame. To get the right filter, remove the old one from the unit and start measuring.
Start by checking the smallest side first, then measure the longer side and the depth. Homeowners will need to round up to the nearest whole number to get the nominal size when ordering custom filters. Don’t be concerned that it will throw off the measurements. The final product will be slightly smaller, so it should fit perfectly.
Custom Filters Improve IAQ
Indoor air quality (IAQ) refers to the concentrations of pollutants in the air that could negatively impact residents’ and guests’ health, safety, and comfort. If an HVAC system has a poorly fitted standardized filter that allows particulates to escape capture and enter the living environment, chances are the IAQ in the home is poor. Switching to a custom filter with a higher MERV rating and a perfect fit is an easy and affordable way to improve IAQ and protect residents’ health.
Filter Quality and MERV Ratings
Custom filters don’t just come in a range of sizes. They’re also available in different filter media. The filter media’s ability to capture particles is measured by its MERV, or Minimum Energy Reporting Values, rating.
Filters with higher MERV ratings are better at trapping smaller particles, but they also reduce airflow. As a result, experts usually recommend a mid-level MERV rating for households where no one suffers from respiratory issues.
Place an Order Today
It takes a little longer to fabricate custom air filters than it does to fill an order for standard filters, so don’t put off buying replacements until the current ones are already performing poorly.