Select an air cleaner filter designed specifically for the unit or a standard model

When buying an air purifier filter, check the size requirements of the purifier or air cleaner. Some units will require air filter elements or accessories when the filter is replaced. Owners' manuals provide this information.

I recommend: Determine the proper air purifier filters needed and which manufacturers offer them. Air cleaners and accessories are available through Ryder Fleet Products. The company specializes in filters for trucks including semi, light duty, medium duty, box trucks and trailer trucks. These are standard size and custom designed filters. Air Quality Engineering offers air cleaners for use in industrial applications. These include specialized air cleaning filters for tobacco smoke, HEPA air purifiers and portable air cleaners.

Buy the proper air conditioner filter designed for the make, model and size of your air conditioner

Air conditioner filter manufacturers make standard filters and custom designed filters. Select these filters based on construction as industrial-sized filters are framed with galvanized steel. The thickness of the filter is essential to consider; one-inch and two-inch fiberglass or polyester models are common. Commercial and home air filter choices are many. Industrial filters are also available, but are not interchangeable in most cases.

I recommend: NordicPure offers air conditioner filters for all applications. The company also offers return air filtering systems and dust collectors. Filters offered by Airsan may include hemmed edges, which provide protection from injury during installation. The company also specializes in filters reinforced with rods.

Invest only in custom-made furnace filters when the manufacturer requires them

Air filter manufacturers often require the use of custom-made filters when the filtration devices are oddly shaped, have a unique task or require specialized filtration to protect equipment. Never replace a manufacturer-required custom designed filter with a standard model as this may void warranties and decrease results.

I recommend: Solberg Manufacturing offers a variety of custom designed filters including those for industrial, severe and extreme duties. Some are reusable. Universal Air Filter offers custom designed filters for various applications including electronics, medical, industrial and communications. These include flame resistant models and foam filters.