If you have a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system with an air filter, you need to know the right size to buy for a replacement. The easiest way to find out is to simply remove the current filter and look at its dimensions. If you don't have it, you'll need to measure the filter that's currently inserted to get the exact measurements. Building a custom air conditioner or oven filter allows you to choose specific dimensions if standard sizes aren't right for you.
If you're happy with the performance of your current filter, you can simply replace it with the same make and model. In the case of air filters, the length and width dimensions are interchangeable, although, conventionally, the larger measurement is the width and the shorter is the length. We recommend physically measuring the old filter and its space in the unit to confirm a compatible range of actual dimensions. One advantage of using disposable filters is that you don't expose yourself to contaminants trapped during cleaning. We recommend that you start your search for replacement air filters by limiting yourself to the depth of the filter.
It's not until FPR 4 and 5 that filters begin to trap larger particles, such as household dust and lint, dust mites, pollen, and pet dander. To make sure it fits properly, remove your current air filter and check the size printed on the frame. Air conditioning filters are available in many different sizes, so it can be overwhelming if you're not sure what size filter you need. Air filters have a MERV rating, which measures how effectively they filter small particles from the air. If you have a Trane Xb tue1c100a481ab, there's nothing inside that keeps the filter in place using 20x24, but it's important to make sure that it fits properly. A filter that is too small will leave a space where debris and particles can enter; a filter that is too large will not fit in the slot.
Installing a smaller filter will allow unwanted contaminants to pass through and enter the home's air and air conditioning system.