Measure the Old Air Filter
If this is an option, the best way to find your correct air filter size is to measure your old air filter. Most filters will be rectangular, so measuring the width, height, and depth in inches should give you all of the information that you need.
Be sure to measure as accurately as possible, because with these dimensions you can now simply use a search engine (Google) to find the air filter you need by size. Do not worry if the dimensions you find are out of order. Air filters are symmetrical and do not have a standard position, so everyone may measure it differently. In other words, one store may interpret opposite of you which side to measure "width" versus "height" - that's okay, all you need is for the numbers to be the same.
What if the Air Filter Cannot Be Measured?
Since air filter measurements need to be precise, it could be hard to find the exact one. Therefore, if searching by size isn't an option for you, or if you no longer have the old filter to measure, you can try the next best thing:
Look for the Model Number on Your Appliance
Whether it's an air purifier or an air conditioner, your appliance's make and model number is going to be what helps you locate the correct air filter online. Usually, this information can be found on a sticker on the back or side of the unit. If the model number isn't on the appliance itself, it might be in the owner's manual.
Once you have this number, you can search for the correct air filter on a search engine. Searching by air filter size works, but you'll find the one designed for your appliance much quicker by making use of the model number.
Before you purchase the air filter, be sure to check that the dimensions in the product description match up. Sometimes, different model numbers are deceiving and look very similar to each other. It is still possible to purchase the wrong size air filter, so the best option is to search by model and confirm with measurements.
What If There is No Model Number on the Unit?
If you cannot locate or confirm the model number, and you are really not sure what it is, there is one last resort.
We still need to manage a way to obtain the make and model number one way or another. Therefore, in the case that all you have in front of you is the appliance, you can use it as a visual to find this information.
Take a photo of the appliance. A camera phone is fine, but make sure it is as clear as possible with minimal glare. Then, you can use Google's reverse image search to find other photos of the same appliance.
Tips to Help You Find the Required Information
Once other pictures of the appliance show up, look for a photo that has the make and model number in the caption or title. Also, check for consistency. Try to see if the same make and model number appears in the search results multiple times. Use as many visual indicators as possible to confirm that the unit looks exactly as what appears in the image search - sometimes, there are appliance models that look very similar, yet require different filter sizes.
Search the LifeSupplyUSA Replacement Air Filters Catalog
If you have the make, model number, or size, you can search LifeSupplyUSA's air filters catalog - most likely we already have it in stock.
Additionally, you can chat with one of our support agents and we can do our very best to help you find what you need!
Make Sure It Fits!
Certain air filters, such as those made of carbon fiber, can be cut to fit universally. Otherwise, it's imperial that the air filter is sized properly and fits the unit snug. If it is anything other than a carbon air filter, it cannot be modified or resized in a way that won’t damage your unit.
If the air filter is too loose, the air particles will flow freely within the unit and may be recirculated back into your breathing air - not to mention, the unit will make a lot of distracting noise as the filter vibrates freely inside the cartridge. If the filter fits too tight, it can put unnecessary strain on the unit, cause damage, and even increase your electric bill. Therefore, you shouldn't wait to find the correct air filter size. You should always make sure the air filter is compatible with the appliance to prevent damage, and freeze all use until it's evident that the correct size is found.
We hope this guide was helpful in finding the right size air filter for your appliance. If you have any questions, please contact us and we would be happy to help!