Can You Stack Air Filters?- Busting the Myths!

Air filters can raise a lot of questions like whether they can be stacked or not. Because house owners can’t always have the true-to-size air filters with them. In such instances, layering air filters might seem like the ideal choice.

However, can you stack air filters at all?

Actually, you can’t really stack air filters in most cases. No HVAC technician or house owner ever suggests using too long or short air filters. And stacking air filters is completely out of the question. In only some extreme cases, you can use a layered setup. Otherwise, no stacking is allowed.

You might be thinking that you got your answers already. But there are some myths and misconceptions about air filters that you’ve to know.

So, let’s take a look at that!

Busting the Myths About Air Filters

The common misconception is obviously about the layering of air filters. People always tend to think it’s completely fine to layer or double down on the filters.

But can you layer air filters?

No, you can’t really layer or double down on the air filters in general usage. While some systems might be able to take multiple filters, the number is pretty low. So, it’s not the ideal scenario for your home air space.

While it is not possible to stack air filters, you can put Air in with radiators at home! So, that’s one concern eliminated. Now, let’s come to the misconception about air restriction in the furnace.

Many tend to think that restrictions are always a bad thing. However, a bit of resistance in your furnace does not really harm. Similar to restrictions, another important thing is the MERV rating. 

For residential purposes, you can easily go up to MERV 13 rating air filters. They won’t have any severe consequences on your house or air conditioning. 

As the common myths are now answered, let’s get to the main discussion with 1-inch filters!

Can I Stack Two 1-inch Air Filters?

You’re concerned about whether you can stack two 1-inch air filters instead of 1 2-inch. Well, the answer is no, you can’t stack two 1-inch filters to fit the size. The airflow in the furnace will heavily suffer due to the restriction.

Also, it’ll take more time for the heat to dissipate. And the filters will get dirtied frequently.

Speaking of getting dirtied fast, here’s a look at the clean vs dirty 1-inch air filter-

Similar to these layering air filter situations, running a furnace without cover is another harmful decision. Because it’s not safe at all. You can severely ruin your AC components if you were to run the furnace with no cover. 

That’s why it’s always advised to use one 2” air filter instead of two 1” ones. If you’re concerned about getting a bad product, I can understand your dilemma. Because it gets tough to find the right-sized air filters. 

However, you can totally check out these incredible deals-

• Filterbuy 20x25x2 Air Filter MERV 11 is completely synthetic and durable. Even the Fillterbuy MERV 8 20x20x2 Air Filter is pretty great as well. Both of them can be 3 times more durable than other fiberglass models. 

• Aerostar 20x20x2 MERV 13 Pleated Air Filter can be a great addition to your home. Not only are these highly rated, but they are also great at protection.

These are some of the well-known brands in the air filters industry. You can definitely trust these filters to give you better dirt and dust protection.

So, try to avoid making such a dangerous house renovation call! It’s always better to ask for professional help if you can’t be sure.

Can I Stack Two 2-inch Air Filters?

You’re now aware that stacking 1-inch filters is a no-go. But what about 2-inch ones? Because many think that 2-inch filters are better.

So, is a 2 inch filter better than a 1 inch?

Relatively speaking, yes, a 2-inch filter is better than 1-inch if your furnace can accommodate it. Because of the increased size, the airflow is significantly better. However, the fit has to be perfect in order to get better efficiency.

It’s one thing that 2-inch is better than 1-inch. However, the question remains whether they can be stacked or not. Similar to the previous answer, no, you can’t really stack two 2-inch air filters. Even with its higher efficiency, the fit is incredibly crucial.

So, don’t blindly stack two 2-inch filters. Instead of that, get one 4” air filter.

If you don’t know which 4-inch filters to get, don’t worry too much. Because I was in your position not long ago! 

However, after searching through different forums, I’ve found some good ones-

• Honeywell Home 20x25x4 MERV 8 is the best 4-inch air filter to get. You can use it for a whopping 12 months! 

• Another great purchase would be the Filterbuy 20x25x4 Air Filter MERV 11. It can block up to 95% of contaminations.

• While 24x24x4 MERV 10 4″ Inch Pleated Air Filters seem simple, they work tremendously well.

You can get any of these air filters without any regret. However, changing the air filter is very important. Because once it’s full of dirt and dust, the airflow severely drops. 

So, try to keep that in mind at all times.

Can I Stack Two 4-inch Air Filters?

This is another common query among homeowners. As 4-inch is more wide and efficient than 2-inch. So, it’s quite natural to think that they can be stacked.

Sorry to burst your hopes but you can’t stack these either! But the good thing is, there’s actually no need for stacking 4-inch air filters. 

Because most of the houses don’t actually need anything larger than 4-inch filters. 

Moreover, it’s quite tough to find anything larger than 4” air filters for residential use. So, you have to be careful about stacking 4-inch filters. 

Speaking of stacking filters, some even think of stacking 8 filters together!

HVAC technicians can’t even recommend 2 stack air filters. So, eight stack air filters are literally out of the question. 

You should never go for eight air filters stacked up. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

You’ve already got the answer to your, “can you stack air filters?” several times. If possible, avoid stacking or layering your filters at all costs.

Because in no way it would be the ideal scenario for your house. So, go on and get the air filter that fits perfectly for your vents!

Tim David

HVAC tech with over 30 years of experience. Retired and doing repair work on the side around Madison County, AL.