When it comes to air filters, the thickness of the filter is just as important as its length and width. The range of thickness for air filters is from 1 to 5 inches, with some options being more common than others. The oven size will determine the thickness you can use. If you're unsure which option is right for you, it's important to understand the considerations when selecting a 20 x 20 x 1 air filter for an HVAC system.
The 2-inch oven filter is the most popular choice when it comes to thickness. However, there isn't a huge difference between the 1-inch and 4-inch filters. If the air filter is too big, you'll need to return it - don't try to cut it to fit as this can create air gaps and allow contaminants into your home's air and air conditioning system. The pressure drop (air flow resistance) in the filters can be increased by increasing filtration efficiency. This is determined by the air flow through the unit, which is usually expressed in cubic feet per minute (CFM).
Modifications in air flow distribution, such as adjusting the position of air supply grilles or flushing air filters from rooms, can help eliminate stagnant air pockets. If your oven's air filter compartment is only 3mm thick, then a 3-inch thick air filter is the better option compared to the 1-inch or 4-inch filters. There are numerous technologies that are being heavily commercialized to treat air during the current COVID-19 pandemic, such as UVGI devices for spiral treatment. However, these are not designed to treat air and should not be installed for this purpose. The 4-inch thick air filter has a definite advantage over the 1-inch filter in terms of longevity, airflow, and maximum filtering potential. Introducing home air filters to a space can introduce new problems that need to be considered.
A MERV 13 filter has an efficiency of at least 50% in capturing particles in the size range of 0.3 µm to 1.0 µm and an efficiency of 85% in capturing particles in the size range of 1 µm to 3 µm. Changes in CO2 concentrations may indicate a change in room occupancy and be used to adjust the amount of outdoor air emitted. When selecting a 20 x 20 x 1 air filter for an HVAC system, it's important to consider factors such as pressure drop, filtration efficiency, and longevity. Additionally, you should be aware of technologies that are not designed to treat air and should not be installed for this purpose. With these considerations in mind, you can make an informed decision about which type of filter is best for your needs.
