How do I know what air filter to buy?
How do I know what air filter to buy?
Simply, you need the filter size that fits in your air return. You can typically find that size on the side of the air filter that you already have in use. This size will be the nominal size, which means it is rounded from its actual size. This is the size you click on at secondnature.com.
How do I know what size filter I need for my AC unit?
Follow these 3 easy steps to measure your HVAC filter size:
- Step 1 – Measuring Length and Width (L x W).
- Step 2 – Measure the thickness (Depth) of your filter from front to back.
- Step 3 – Put Your measurements together (L x W x D).
- It’s as simple as that!
How do you calculate air filter area?
- Calculate the square feet of filter area needed for the HVAC system using the following formula: Required equipment airflow (cfm) ÷ filter velocity = square feet of filter needed.
- Calculate the size of the filter/filters in square feet using the following formula: Length x width ÷ 144 = square feet of each filter.
How do I know which way the air flows in my AC?
Generally the edge of the filter is marked with an arrow which points in the direction of the airflow. In other words, the air travels from the tail of the arrow toward its point. If there is no arrow, the side that is stronger or reinforced by cardboard or wire mesh is the side the arrow should be pointing to.
What is the standard size air filter?
Standard air filter sizes include:
| 10X20 | 14 X 20 | 20X20 |
|---|---|---|
| 12X12 | 14X24 | 24 X 24 |
| 12X20 | 14X25 | 20X24 |
| 12X24 | 14X30 | 20X25 |
| 12X30 | 15X20 | 20X30 |
Can I use a different size air filter?
For most systems you can use a standard sized filter within 5/8-in smaller than the air filter housing. If you are not able to find a standard sized filter within that parameter, you will need to order a custom sized air filter.
Which is the correct way to install an AC filter?
When you install a new air filter into the AC return duct, the arrows face inward to specify which way the air is flowing. The return duct in your home is PULLING in air. When the air is being pulled or sucked in, the air filter arrows need to point INWARD, towards the duct. AC Air Filter Installed Backwards?
How can I determine the direction of my air filter?
Pro Tip: Once you’ve got it figured out, draw the airflow direction arrow on the HVAC housing or ductwork with a permanent marker. The next time you change your filter, match up the arrows’ directions and viola, you’ve properly changed your air filter.
What happens if you install your air filter in the wrong direction?
What happens if you install your filter in the wrong direction? If you install your filter in the wrong direction, air will have a hard time flowing through the filter’s material and your air handler will have to work overtime to make up for the loss of airflow.
How to match air filter size to your engine?
Manufacturers such K&N offer similar air cleaner configurations. Shape and size dictate the ability of the air filter element to flow the maximum amount of air into the engine. In the case of a K&N element, you can use the diameter of the air filter to help determine sufficient area for the airflow required.
How can you ensure that you install your air filter in the correct direction?
How can you ensure that you install your air filter in the correct direction? Air filters have arrows printed on the sides of them that show you which way they are supposed to be installed. These arrows should be pointing in the direction that air flows through your system, which is away from the supply ducts and (typically) toward the blower.
Where do I change the air filter in my air conditioner?
The return air register, the air handler cabinet and even a window air conditioner unit will all have an air filter that requires replacement or cleaning. Before changing the air filter, get the correct size.
Where is the air filter located in a HVAC unit?
The air filter is usually located in the return air duct or blower compartment before the return air reaches the air handler. This allows the filter to clean the air coming from your house before it enters the HVAC unit. Common locations for air filters in HVAC units include:
What to do if there is no filter in the return?
If there is no filter in the return, measure the length and width of the space, so you’ll know what size filter you’ll need for replacement. If you removed an old filter, check its size so you can be sure you have the correct filter for replacement.
