Most HVAC systems use 1-inch thick air filters as a standard requirement. However, some homes and businesses require thicker filters, ranging from 4 to 6 inches. These thicker filters can withstand more accumulations and trap more particles than standard filters, meaning they need to be changed less often. So, is it necessary to use a 4-inch air filter? The short answer is yes.
Thicker filters prevent unfiltered air from entering your home, so you can breathe healthier air. A four- to five-inch filter usually works best when you want superior filtration. However, there are situations where a thin air filter is preferred. Thicker air filters tend to last longer because they have more square feet to capture and retain air particles.
A higher rating is obtained when a filter is four or five inches thick, as these filters trap extremely small contaminating particles. 1-inch pleated air filters have higher MERV ratings for one simple reason: they have more surface area to trap particulate matter. A 1-inch filter with less surface space will clog up fairly quickly and will need to be replaced much sooner than a coarser filter. Many Lexington homes and businesses use standard type 1 air filters; this isn't the best option when it comes to air quality and HVAC system efficiency.
If you want to improve air quality through better air filtration, but don't want to incur the expense of modifying your equipment, a 1-inch MERV 13 filter is what you need. On the other hand, you can use a 1-inch thick filter in compartments that can accommodate a deeper filter. 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. If you try to use a 4-inch-thick air filter in a system that's made for a 1-inch-thick filter, the efficiency will actually worsen.
So, if you choose a 1-unit filter with a high MERV index, you'll need to change it every one to two months when you use your oven, heat pump, or air conditioner frequently. The four-inch-thick air filter has an advantage over the one-inch one in terms of longevity, airflow, and maximum filtering potential. A deeper depth can also improve filter life and efficiency; it also makes it easier for air to enter and exit the filter. 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.
All filters have a MERV rating, which indicates the filter's efficiency in removing contaminants from the air supply. However, if the filter is too shallow, a loose fit will allow unfiltered air to enter the ducts, which is not ideal for better air quality. In conclusion, using a 4-inch thick air filter is beneficial for many reasons. It provides superior filtration and lasts longer than standard 1-inch filters. It also helps improve airflow and reduce the amount of unfiltered air entering your home or business.
If you're looking for an effective way to improve your indoor air quality without making costly modifications to your HVAC system, then using a 4-inch thick air filter is an excellent option.