When it comes to air conditioning and oven filters, it's essential to understand the size you need. All filters have an actual size and then a nominal size. The actual size is the exact dimensions without rounding; while the nominal size is the rounded dimensions of the filter. This means that for air filters 1 and 2, the nominal size does not include the notch, and the actual size does include the recess.
The filters are labeled with three-part dimensions. The first number is its length, the second is its width, and the third is its depth or thickness. To determine the correct size of your filter, you must measure the length and width (L x W). If the filter is not square, the smallest measurement goes first. Round to the nearest inch to create the nominal filter size, which is the measurement you will use when purchasing a filter. If your old air filter doesn't have the measurements printed on the side, you can measure it yourself.
It is important to note that there is no need for a hermetic seal between the frame and the air cleaner. In this case, you'll want to round down to the nearest integer to determine the nominal size of the air cleaner. Most major retailers, such as Walmart, Target, and Home Depot, offer air cleaners, albeit with a different variety of options and brands to choose from. Before you waste time on the HVAC unit controller or central return air vent, first adjust the thermostat to turn off the air conditioning system. Gaps in an air filter will allow dust, dirt and germs to bypass it and circulate back into your home. This can burn out your blower motor as you struggle to blow air through your system.
Proper maintenance will maintain good air quality in your home, increase your system's lifespan, and consume less energy, reducing your bills. Jamming a large filter where it doesn't belong can damage your HVAC system and won't clean your air properly. In addition, if there is any resistance to airflow caused by using a filter that is not the correct size, it can cause unnecessary stress on your HVAC unit itself, which could damage your system equipment and increase your energy bills. To sum up, understanding what air filter sizes mean is essential for proper maintenance of your HVAC system. Measurements should be taken accurately and rounded down to get an exact nominal size for purchasing a new filter. This will ensure that your system runs efficiently and that you get clean air in your home.
