Is a 4 Inch Filter Worth It? - The Benefits of a 4-Inch Air Filter

The 4-inch thick air filter has a clear advantage over filter 1 in terms of longevity, air flow and maximum filtering potential. So, if it fits your oven, then a 4-inch air filter is better than a 1-inch air filter for improving air quality. The short answer? A 4-inch filter will last longer and provide better air quality for your home. The 4-inch thick air filter has a clear advantage over filter 1 in terms of longevity, air flow and maximum filtering potential.

This is because the larger size of the 4-inch filter provides more surface area to trap contaminants, allowing for better airflow and continuous removal of pollutants. In addition, an often cited comprehensive independent test on the effects of MERV filters 8 to 13 on HVAC airflow and energy consumption concluded that, even “if no adjustments are made for the greater pressure drop of filters with a high MERV, the flow air and energy sanctions” are unlikely to be serious at least, not until the filter is loaded with dirt. The bottom line is that size does matter when it comes to the thickness of the oven filter. A thinner 1-inch filter with a high MERV rating would clog up very quickly (compared to a 4-inch pleated filter), since there is less surface area available to trap contaminants.

So not only will you clean the air better, but you'll also get much more airflow than the standard one-inch. All filters have a MERV rating, which marks the filter's efficiency in removing contaminants from the air supply. If your HVAC systems are currently operating with a 1 filter, a 4 filter will not be able to fit the existing cabinet. The blockage increases the pressure differential between the inlet and outlet sides, and this can cause the filter folds to flatten or the filter frame to bend.

We evaluate how well an air filter removes dust, pollen, and smoke from the air, and see how freely air flows through the filter at any fan speed. These 4-inch multimedia filters can have between 20 and 30 feet of surface area with their pleated (accordion) filter material. A review of the NIH literature indicates that filters in this range can significantly reduce indoor fine particle pollution and alleviate some respiratory diseases. However, unless you're worried about having to replace the filter ahead of time, you can also set up a calendar reminder.

If you choose a 1-inch air filter with a high MERV, check it every month during the heating or air conditioning months, and replace it when it's too dirty for light to enter, or sooner. Get the efficiency and improved air quality offered by a 4-layer air filter for your home or business in Lexington.