According to the EPA, indoor air pollution is among the top five environmental health risks. Making sure your air filter fits properly within your system and regularly cleaned is imperative to keep your furnace or AC system operating properly and protecting indoor air quality. Before ordering or purchasing an air filter, make sure you look at your HVAC unit and measure the space for the air filter to determine the size and type of filter you need. US Home Filter specializes in many different filter types, including AC air filters (for all major brands), Whole House Air Filters, Furnace filters, Grille filters and even Humidifier pads. We offer a vast selection of standard sized air filters, as well as custom sized AC filters. With all the different options available, how do you know which filter type you need? What is the difference between them? Here's what you need to know.
Air filters are used to protect the vital components of your HVAC system from accumulating dirt and debris. They improve your indoor air quality by capturing and reducing dust and allergens such as mold spores, pollen, pet dander, and even odors. Whether you have central heating and air conditioning or separate heating and cooling units, the same air filter will be used for both. This is because they (typically) share the same air-handler. Standard air filters are 1" and 2" in size and need to be changed every 1-3 months. Regularly changing your air filters is also the easiest way to maintain your HVAC unit.
Another filter type is Whole House Air filters. These filters also work to remove particles from the air, improve indoor air quality and protect your HVAC system. They are also known as also known as Residential Air Cleaners, Media Filters, and Whole House Air Cleaners. The difference between these and regular Air Filters is that Whole House Filters are larger in size and only need to be changed every 6-12 months due to the greater surface area. Any filter 3" or thicker is designed to be a whole house filter. Their increased filter media also allows for a much higher airflow rate.
Custom air filter sizes are not stocked on shelves or found at local stores. There are tens of thousands of possible size combinations for filters so there is no way to keep each size in stock. However, you can get the exact size you need by building a custom air filter. If you’ve measured your air filter housing slot and are unable to find a standard sized air filter within 5/8th-inch smaller than the housing slot, then your unit requires a custom sized air filter. US Home filter can make custom air filters in 1", 2" and 4" depths.
Grille filters are used in ceilings, grilles of walls and in the return air vents. They are not used in an air handler like those mentioned above. There should be at least a 7-in depth behind the grille, providing enough space for installation and airflow through the filter. Much like Whole House Air Filters, the increased surface area and depth of Grille filters provide greater airflow and efficiency compared to standard 1-in filters. This filter type should be changed every 6-12 months depending on environmental factors.
Separate from HVAC and grille filters, humidifiers add moisture to your air, counteracting the drying effect that your furnace has during the cold months. Having a humidifier in your home can also help save on energy costs! When you add moisture back into the air it allows the air to feel warmer and more comfortable at a lower temperature. In other words, moist air feels warmer than dry air. On average, you can set your thermostat 2-3 degrees lower when you have a humidifier and achieve the same air temperature that you would without one. Humidifiers help those prone to sinus infections, asthma, allergies, and respiratory conditions. Humidifier pads facilitate the process that disperses moisture into your air. Wick filters, evaporator pads and vapor pads are other common names for humidifier pads.
No matter which HVAC system you have, every unit needs a quality filter that fits properly. This keeps your indoor air quality clean and your unit running at its maximum efficiency. US Home Filter can supply you with the best and most efficient HVAC filter available! Changing the filter in your furnace is as important as changing the oil in your car. US Home Filter makes filters that fit all AC/HVAC units. From standard to custom air filters, to whole-house filters, grille filters and humidifier filters, we have all of your filter needs covered!
Selecting the filters that are just right for your home can be difficult and confusing at times. At US Home Filter we understand this so our experienced staff to help answer any questions you may have. For personal assistance with your air filter needs, please contact us now online or call us at (855) 237-1673 and we will do our very best to assist you in selecting the right filter for your individual needs. We want to earn your business and we guarantee your satisfaction! Take advantage of our quality products, vast selection and low prices. Plus, enjoy FREE SHIPPING on every air filter order within the Contiguous USA.
