When it comes to air filters, there is no need for them to have a “hermetic seal”, but they should be easy to install and uninstall, and not be so small that they move freely within the unit. It is not recommended to stack air filters in order to fit them into a larger slot. If an air filter is too big, it should be returned instead of cutting it down. Cutting a filter to fit can create air gaps, allowing contaminants to pass through.
Thicker air filters may seem like the best option since they have more square meters to capture and retain air particles. A 1-inch air filter may need to be changed every month, while a 4-inch air filter could last up to six months. Before purchasing a new filter, check if your oven already has one and if it fits correctly. The size should be labeled on the filter, and this is the size you should use when ordering a replacement.
When cutting an air filter, consider the type of filter you are using since some of them, especially the more expensive options, can lose much of their structural integrity if cut incorrectly. This can result in damage to the HVAC system or unwanted particles in your home or business. Most HVAC systems are designed to accommodate 1-inch thick filters, but an external filter rack can be installed for a coarser filter. Air filters have arrows printed on the sides showing how they are supposed to be installed.
If you try to use a 4-inch thick air filter for a system that is made for a 1-inch thick filter, the efficiency will actually be worse. Do not stack several smaller air filters on top of each other to place them in a larger air handling unit. The MERV rating is a scale ranging from 1 to 20 developed by the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) to measure the ability of a filter to remove particulates from the air. An air purifier or air filter is a device that can be used with the HVAC system that helps remove contaminants from indoor air.
We recommend removing the existing filter and measuring it to confirm the actual dimensions. If your oven's air filter compartment is only 3 inches thick, then the 1 inch oven filter is the better choice than the 4 inch filter, however a 3 inch thick air filter is the best choice. Washable air filters are reusable versions of regular flat or pleated panel filters and are quite common in non-specialized residential and commercial buildings.Electrostatic air filters may trap more dust and other particulates than normal filters without charge, but more research is needed to determine their actual effectiveness. To ensure optimal performance of your HVAC system, make sure that your air filters fit properly and are replaced regularly.
