What Information to Supply for a Custom Air Filter Quote

If you need a custom air filter, the quality of the quote depends on the quality of the information you provide. The more accurately you describe the existing filter and the system it goes into, the easier it is for the supplier to make the right filter first time.

At Total Air Filtration, we manufacture and supply air filters for commercial and industrial applications from Hillcrest, Brisbane QLD. Here is the information that helps us match the filter to your equipment, your site and the way the system is meant to operate.

Start with the exact filter measurements

The first thing a supplier needs is the true size of the filter, not just the nominal size printed on an old label.

Provide:

• •Length, width and depth of the filter
• •Units of measurement used, ideally millimetres
• •Whether the dimensions are overall outside dimensions or media size
• •Any tolerance limits if the filter must fit a tight opening
• •A clear note if the filter sits in a single frame, multi-panel bank or holding rack

If you are replacing an existing filter, it helps to photograph the old one with a tape measure beside it. If you are not sure how to measure, see how to measure an air filter.

In many sites, a small difference in depth, flange size or gasket position can stop a filter from seating properly. That can lead to bypass air, poor sealing or time lost on site during installation.

Describe the filter type and construction

Different systems need different filter designs. A supplier needs to know what type you are after so the new product matches the intended application.

Useful details include:

• •Panel, pleated, pocket, bag, rigid cell or carbon filter
• •Whether the filter is for pre-filtration, fine filtration or final filtration
• •Any media type currently in use, if known
• •Whether the filter has a synthetic, glass fibre or carbon element
• •If the filter is intended to be washable, noting that some filters are designed to be washable - check the product instructions

If you already know the performance target, include it. Ratings such as MERV, EN 779 and ISO 16890 do not convert directly, so it is better to state the rating system you want rather than guess an equivalent. The same applies if your equipment uses older EN 779 language such as G3, G4 or F5-F9, which are still widely used in Australia even though the standard has been superseded by ISO 16890.

For high-efficiency applications, supply the exact requirement rather than a general description. If HEPA is required, ask for the specific class, such as H13 or H14 under EN 1822, and whether the requirement is tied to the most penetrating particle size (MPPS).

Include frame, seal and fitting details

The frame details are just as important as the media inside the filter. A filter that is the right size on paper can still fail to fit if the frame, gasket or fixing arrangement is wrong.

Tell your supplier:

• •Frame material needed, such as galvanised steel, aluminium or cardboard where suitable
• •Whether you need a single-piece frame or a replaceable media insert
• •The flange style, if there is one
• •Whether the filter needs a gasket, sealant or knife-edge seal
• •How the filter is fixed in place, such as clips, tracks, bolts or a holding frame
• •Any orientation requirements, including airflow direction or installation position

If you are replacing a filter from an air handling unit, dust collector or process system, a photo of the frame, clips and access arrangement can save time and reduce mistakes. It also helps to note whether the filter is removed from the front, side or rear of the housing.

Explain the application and operating environment

A filter should be selected for the conditions it will actually face, not just the size of the opening.

Share details such as:

• •The equipment type, for example HVAC plant, dust extraction, cleanroom system, paint booth or process ventilation
• •The site environment, including dust level, moisture, temperature or odour concerns
• •Whether the system runs in an office, workshop, warehouse, food area, medical space or industrial plant
• •Whether there are oil mist, welding fumes, fine dust, lint or outdoor pollution issues
• •Any site constraints that affect access, handling or change-out

If the filter is part of a building ventilation system, the mechanical services engineer or building owner should confirm the site requirements, including any relevant settings under AS 1668.2:2024. For specialised systems, it can also help to involve the original equipment instructions or your maintenance records.

You can also view our products and industries we supply to help identify the filter style that best suits your application.

State the performance requirements clearly

Performance is where many custom quotes go wrong. If the supplier does not know what the filter must do, they may choose a product that fits physically but performs differently from what you need.

Include any of the following that apply:

• •Required airflow or face velocity
• •Expected dust loading or how dirty the environment is
• •Target pressure drop if your system monitors resistance
• •Any filtration efficiency requirement in your preferred standard
• •Whether the filter must allow for high dust holding or lower initial resistance
• •Whether there is a pressure gauge, differential pressure switch or BMS monitoring in place

If your system uses gauges or monitoring devices, note the normal operating range and what your team considers a change-out trigger. Inspection frequency depends on the system, site conditions and dust load, so it is best to follow the filter or equipment manufacturer instructions and monitor pressure drop where gauges are fitted.

If your application involves a sensitive process, say so. For example, a filter in a clean production area may need a different balance of efficiency, airflow and pressure drop than one in a general workshop or warehouse.

Send photos and the old filter if possible

When a quote request is incomplete, photos often answer the missing questions faster than a phone call.

Useful photos include:

• •The front, back and side of the existing filter
• •The installed filter inside the frame or housing
• •The label or markings on the old filter
• •The equipment nameplate or unit details
• •The mounting points and seal surface

If the old filter is available, sending it to the supplier for inspection can help confirm construction, dimensions and fitting details. This is especially useful when the filter has no label, has been modified, or is a non-standard size.

What to include when you request a quote

To save time, include the following in your enquiry:

• •Exact dimensions
• •Filter type and performance rating needed
• •Frame material and seal details
• •Equipment make and model, if known
• •Application and site conditions
• •Quantity required
• •Photos of the current filter and housing
• •Any special handling or access constraints
• •Whether you want a standard replacement or a custom-made option

If you are unsure about any part of the request, send what you have anyway. A good supplier can often identify the missing information from photos, old parts or a short site discussion. You can contact us if you need help working through the details.

Get the right filter made first time

The best custom filter quote is based on clear measurements, the right construction details and a realistic understanding of how the system runs. When those details are supplied upfront, the supplier can make a filter that suits the frame, the application and the required performance.

Total Air Filtration is a family-owned air filter manufacturer and supplier in Hillcrest, Brisbane QLD, and we can help supply or make the right filters for your site. Call 07 3800 3448 or request a quote when you are ready.