Frequently Asked Questions
What is APR? APR stands for Accumulair Performance Rating. This rating has been established by the manufacturer of the Accumulair Filters. This rating exists to demonstrate the different levels of efficiency throughout the Accumulair filter line. Generally speaking, the higher the APR, the better the filter performs in capturing small airborne particles. This rating system is an internal rating system and applies to Accumulair filters only.
How do I know which filter is best for me? The filter that is best for you depends on health and living conditions. For example, if you have asthma or severe allergies to things in the air, an APR 1950 filter may be best for you. Or, if you smoke, a Carbon Odor Block filter may be best. If you do not have severe allergy problems, don’t smoke in your home, and don’t have any indoor pets, a standard APR 1950 filter is generally the best option for you.
How do I know what size filter I need? For furnace or air conditioner filters, you can determine your size by measuring your old filter and looking at the size printed on the frame. For 5” and 6” furnace filters, you can also search our site by your unit’s model number. For air cleaner or humidifier filters, you can search our site by your unit’s model number.
What is the difference between Actual Sized and Nominal Sized Furnace/AC filters? Actual sized filters measure the same as the dimensions printed on the frame. For example, if the frame of the filter says 16.5x21x1, and the filter measures exactly 16.5x21, this is an “actual” size filter. Nominal sized filters generally measure ½” under the dimensions printed on the frame. For example, if the frame of the filter says 20x25x1, but the filter actually measures 19 ½ x 24 ½, then this is a “nominal” or “under-cut” filter. When ordering, it is important to confirm that you are getting the appropriate size by referring to the product description. The actual size of the filter will be in parenthesis. Example:
Accumulair Diamond APR 1950 Filters - 1 Inch
Size: 16.5x21x1 (Actual Size)
Accumulair Diamond APR 1950 Filters - 1 Inch
Size: 20x25x1 (19.5x24.5)
How do I order a custom size filter? Go to: Custom Filters Scroll down and choose Accumulair Diamond APR 1950, Platinum APR 1550 or Gold APR 650. Select the exact dimensions of your filter. Enter the quantity and add to cart.
Can I return a custom filter? Unfortunately, you cannot return a custom size filter. A custom size filter is built to your exact specifications, and as a result cannot be reused or resold. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
What is a Whole House filter? Whole House generally refers to a furnace filter or an air conditioner filter. These types of units usually supply cool or warm air to your whole house.
Why is my humidifier filter not “wicking” the water? A humidifier filter will stop wicking when it has dried out. Mineral deposits in the water supply (hard water) will cause a humidifier filter to dry out. Some solutions to help your humidifier filter last longer include: using humidifier water treatment, making sure you don’t let the humidifier run out of water (fill the tank before it gets empty), and cleaning your filter once a week. You can clean your humidifier filter by soaking it in vinegar for about 15 minutes. After you soak it in vinegar, rinse it thoroughly under running water, and then put it back in your humidifier unit.
Why is there a black mark on my humidifier filter? Some evaporator pads come with a black mark on them. This is simply so that you can identify that this is the top of the filter.
What is this stuff flaking off of my humidifier filter? This is to be expected from certain humidifier filters. This happens because some evaporator pads have been coated with a non-soluble wetting agent to enhance the efficiency of the humidifier. Some excess coating may flake off before the installation of the filter.
What is the difference between an OEM and aftermarket? OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. Some people refer to these as the “Brand Name” products. Aftermarket products are not made by the original manufacturer. Aftermarket products are sometimes referred to as “Replacements.”
Do your aftermarket filters meet the same specifications as the OEM? Our aftermarket filters are designed to be as efficient as the OEM filters. In some cases, our aftermarket filters are more efficient than the OEMs.
How will my order be shipped? All orders are shipped via FedEx or USPS (our option). Please call (do not email) to change ship-to information on an order that you have just placed.
How do I return my order? What is your return policy?
If you have ordered an incorrect item or if you simply wish to return your unused product we will gladly refund your money. You must first fill out the back of your packing slip with the appropriate information and place it inside your box with your product. We recommend that you send your order through UPS ground or FedEx ground due to the insurance these two carriers provide for up to $100. If you choose to send your package via the Postal Service, we do recommend that you purchase the insurance just in case the package is lost or damaged. Also, it is recommended to keep a note of your tracking number so we may confirm receipt. Please ship your package, and a copy of your packing sheet/return form to the following address:
AirFilters.com
Attn: Returns Department
2800 Nazareth Rd.
Wellford, SC 29385
Filters that are returned must be unused and undamaged when they arrive back at AirFilters.com. Filters that are received damaged by you must be reported within 15 days of receipt in order to file a claim. Filters that are delivered correctly and in good condition are the responsibility of the recipient. Any package that is refused by the recipient and is returned to AirFilters.com will be credited the price of the filters less the cost of the return shipping. All orders returned to AirFilters.com due to incorrect information (i.e. incorrect name, city, zip code, etc.) will incur an additional charge to cover the inadvertent delivery.
Please allow 10 business days from the time we receive your items back in order to process the return. Filters, not freight, will be credited back to your card on record.
How do I know what size filter I need?
Check the filter that's already in your unit. Most filters have the size printed on the frame, with the nominal size in large print and the actual size in small print. If nothing is listed, pull the old filter and measure the length, width, and depth with a tape measure.
Don't see your size? Build one to your exact dimensions with our custom size tool.
How do I measure my air filter correctly?
Measure the length, width, and thickness of your old filter (or the empty slot) in inches. Go edge-to-edge across the frame for length and width, and measure the full depth for thickness, which is usually 1", 2", 4", or 5". Match the nominal size to your slot, but double-check the actual size if the fit is tight.
What is the difference between actual size and nominal size?
Nominal size is the rounded label printed on the filter, like 16x25x1. Actual size is the real measured dimension, which runs slightly smaller so the filter drops into the slot. A "16x25x1" filter usually measures about 15.75x24.75x0.75. Each product page lists the actual measurements.
Can I use an air filter that's slightly the wrong size?
Use the correct size. A filter that's too small lets air slip around the edges, which means less filtration and more dust reaching your system. One that's too large can bend, seal poorly, or not fit at all. If you're stuck between two sizes, pick the one that seals snugly without forcing it.
How do I order a custom size filter?
Visit our custom size air filters page to build an Accumulair filter to your exact specifications.
How do I know which filter is best for me?
It comes down to your size and how much filtration you want. Start with the right dimensions, then choose a MERV rating based on your household. Homes with pets, allergies, or asthma usually benefit from a higher MERV. If you're unsure, our Customer Service team is happy to point you in the right direction.
What is a MERV rating?
MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. It rates how well a filter captures airborne particles: the higher the number, the smaller the particles it can trap, and the higher the percentage kept out of your air. Higher MERV filters can also restrict airflow more, depending on your system. We offer MERV 8, 10, 11, and 13.
What MERV rating should I use in my home?
Most homes do well on MERV 8 to 11, which balances filtration and airflow. If allergies, asthma, smoke, or heavy dust are a concern, MERV 11 to 13 may help, provided your system can handle the airflow. Check your HVAC manual or ask a professional before going above MERV 13.
All MERV data and statements are indicative of typical properties and characteristics obtainable; MERV claims are to be used as a guide for general comparison and not as a specification.
What is the difference between fiberglass and pleated filters?
Fiberglass filters are made of spun glass and typically last about 30 days. Because they let smaller particles pass through, they capture far less than a pleated filter does. Pleated filters, like our Accumulair line, last up to 90 days and trap a much higher percentage of particles. Fiberglass costs less up front, but it lasts roughly a third as long and lets more through.
Are Accumulair air filters electrostatically charged?
Yes. Our filters carry an electrostatic charge, which helps them attract dust, debris, and bacteria more effectively.
What do home air filters trap?
Air filters capture the particles floating in household dust: dirt, dander, mold spores, pollen, fibers, and more. The filter's MERV rating determines how small a particle it catches and what percentage it holds back.
How do I change my air filter?
It only takes a quick couple of minutes.
Which way does the arrow point on the filter when I install it?
The arrow points in the direction of airflow, toward the blower or furnace and into the equipment. If you're installing behind a return grille, the arrow points away from the room and into the duct.
What happens if I install the air filter backwards?
A backward filter restricts airflow and makes your system work harder. That can raise energy use, hurt comfort, and cause dirt to build up faster inside the equipment. Keep the arrow pointing toward the blower or furnace.
How often should I change my air filter?
Replace pleated filters about every 90 days. If you have pets, kids, or allergy sufferers at home, swap them more often. Staying on schedule keeps particles out of your air, holds down energy bills, and helps your HVAC run the way it should.
Will a dirty air filter affect my HVAC performance?
Yes. A clogged filter restricts airflow, which drops cooling performance and forces your AC to work harder. That drives up energy bills and wears on the system. If your home isn't cooling like it used to, checking the filter is one of the fastest things to rule out.
Can I run my HVAC without a filter?
Don't. The filter is what keeps dust and debris out of your equipment. Run the system without one and buildup collects on internal parts, dragging down efficiency and eventually causing expensive damage. Always run it with a properly sized filter in place.
How does the AirFilters.com subscription work?
Your filters show up when you need them, and you save an extra 10% on every order.
No more tracking dates in your head or making a last-minute store run for the wrong size. Set your size, type, and schedule once, and the right filter arrives when it's due. That means steadier airflow, less strain on your system, and fewer particles circulating at home.
How do I return my order? What is your return policy?
We will gladly accept returns of unopened and unused product that are postmarked within 30 days of delivery. This applies to standard filters only, and not customs
Before you ship. We accept returns on standard-size filters only. Custom and made-to-order sizes are cut to your exact specifications, so they can't be returned. Double-check your measurements before ordering a custom size, and Customer Service can confirm dimensions before you buy. Standard-size returns don't need any authorization; just follow the steps below.
How to return. Fill out the return form on the back of your packing slip. (Lost it? Include a note with your name and order number.) Place the form inside the box with your product and ship it to the address below. Return shipping is paid by the customer. We recommend UPS Ground or FedEx Ground, since both include up to $100 in insurance. If you use the Postal Service, add insurance in case the package is lost or damaged. Either way, hold onto your tracking number so we can confirm receipt.
AirFilters.com
Attn: Returns Department
2800 Nazareth Rd.
Wellford, SC 29385
Return conditions. Filters must arrive back unopened and in their original packaging. Returns must include the complete pack; we can't accept partial returns (for example, three filters from an opened four-pack). If your order arrived damaged, report it to Customer Service at [email protected] or +1 877-476-9511 within 15 days of receipt so we can file a claim. If a package is refused and returned to us, we'll credit the cost of the filters minus return shipping. If an order comes back because of incorrect address information, an additional charge applies to cover redelivery.
Refunds. Please allow 10 business days from the time we receive your return to process it. We'll credit the cost of the filters to your original payment method. Original shipping charges aren't refundable.
