If you want to enjoy ideal heating and cooling from your HVAC system, you need to get the right size filter for your unit. Otherwise, the filter can’t perform its job efficiently. Not too small, not too big — you need an air filter that is just the perfect size.
The ideal air filter size depends on your system’s requirements. This guide discusses the typical sizes of air filters for residential properties.
What Are t=The Most Common Air Filter Sizes For Homes
You’ll find several air filter sizes on the market. While some sizes are reserved for commercial purposes, which generally demand bigger air filters, other sizes are more suitable for home use.
But not every home is the same, and neither is every HVAC system. You’ll have to measure your unit to know which filter you need. Here are the standard air filter sizes to choose from for a home.
- 20 x 20 x 1
- 16 x 25 x 1
- 20 x 25 x 1
- 20 x 25 x 4
- 16 x 20 x 1
- 16 x 25 x 4
- 20 x 30 x 1
- 12 x 12 x 1
- 14 x 14 x 1
- 14 x 20 x 1
If none of these fit your air filter compartment, consider getting Filter King 20x23x1 filters. You can speak to professionals to learn more about air filter sizes.
How Do I Know Which Air Filter I Need?
Now that you know the typical sizes in the market, how do you know which one is perfect for your home? This depends on the requirements of your system.
The right-sized air filter snugly fits in the system’s air filter compartment with only a little space around the edges. The best sign that the filter is right-sized is if it easily slides into the compartment. Here are some ways to figure out the air filter size you need.
Measure Your Air Filter
Remove the filter it from its compartment and look for the printed dimensions (height, width, and depth) on the frame. If the dimensions are hard to read or have begun to fade, you can manually measure the air filter using a measuring tape. Measure the height, width, and depth using the tape, and write them down on paper.
Measuring the Size of the Air Filter Compartment
If there is no air filter in the compartment, measure the size of the compartment itself, the sides, and the depth.
You can use these measurements to purchase the right sized air filter for your system’s compartment.
Difference Between Nominal Size And Actual Size
The sizes of the air filters are classified between the nominal size and actual size. The nominal size is the size the manufacturer prints on the air filter frame and is usually a rounded figure or a rough estimate. The actual size is the exact size of the air filter and is generally a bit smaller (about 1/8″ to 1/4″) than the nominal one.
Understanding the difference between the two is important to invest your money in the right-sized air filter.
How To Know If Your Air Filter Is Of The Wrong Size
If your air filter size is wrong for the compartment, you’d see some clear signs, including:
- Rattling noises coming from the system, which indicates that the filter is too small
- Trouble placing the air filter in the compartment, meaning the filter is too large
- Dusty home, which hints at a small air filter
- The corners of the air filter are slightly bent when you remove it, indicating that it’s too large for the space
Now that you know the specifics of air filter sizes, you can find the perfect match for your home. Start with measuring your existing air filter or the air filter compartment. Then conduct a Google search and see which one fits the bill. If you are unsure how to go on about it, you can consult a professional. They could stop by your home and take measurements to suggest the right size air filter for your home.