Is a 5-Inch Air Filter Better for Your Home Than a 1-Inch One?

Replacing your standard one-inch air filter with a 5-inch pleated filter can result in better air quality inside your home. This is because larger air filters have higher MERV rates, allowing for better filtration of contaminants and allergens. The ideal 5-inch air filters come with a MERV rating of 13, and some air conditioning specialists have also noticed that thicker filters provide a perfect fit and do not let unfiltered air pass through. Additionally, a thicker filter is less restrictive and will allow for better flow of purified air.

A 4 to 5 inch filter is usually the best choice for those who need superior filtration. However, there are situations where a thin air filter is more suitable. For instance, if you try to use a four-inch air filter in a system designed for a one-inch one, your efficiency will worsen and the components could be damaged if you tried to clog the four-inch filter in space. Reducing the thickness by one inch shouldn't be a big problem; for example, you should be able to use a 4-inch filter instead of a 5-inch filter.

Most air filters are located in the ventilation grille or slot located in the return air intake of the air conditioning system. The width of an air filter is usually the longest side, and while the height is usually the shortest side, the length comes second. Locally owned Jansen Heating and Cooling only installs premium air filters in Cincinnati homes. Combining a thin air filter with a high MERV rate can also restrict airflow to the point of hampering efficiency and causing excessive wear. But what if your oven's air filter compartment is only three inches deep? In that case, the one-inch filter is the best option for easy replacement.

To put that into perspective, a 1-inch air filter may need to be changed every month, while a 4-inch air filter can last up to six months. Thicker air filters tend to last longer because they have more surface area to capture and retain air particles. Then, using a measuring tape, measure the length, width, and depth of the inside of the air filter vent. Understanding how the size of the air filter works is crucial, especially if you want the right size for your home or office. So, if it fits your oven, then a 4-inch air filter is better than a 1-inch one to improve air quality. Let's say you want to replace your air filter but don't know what sizes of air filter you need.

There are practically thousands of air filters available, making finding the right one for your air conditioning system overwhelming. As an expert in air filters, I recommend that you always check your oven's specifications before purchasing an air filter. If you have an oven that requires a one-inch air filter, then it's best to stick with that size. However, if you have an oven that can accommodate larger sizes, then I suggest going with a 4 or 5 inch air filter. This will ensure that you get maximum filtration and improved air quality in your home.

Catherine Plessner
Catherine Plessner

Devoted bacon trailblazer. Subtly charming burrito aficionado. Infuriatingly humble coffee advocate. Certified foodaholic. Incurable sushi guru. Award-winning travel lover.