Big or little carbon filters

Im here today looking for opinions from people who have used various sizes filters. I'm trying to decide if it's more efficient to buy 12" filters from now on. I currently run ( 6" filters. I usually just date them with a sharpie and buy a few after each run, changing out the oldest ones. They only last 3 grows at most.

I figured the efficiency would be as simple as the cfm rating/total weight of carbon, with respect to contact time and bed thickness, assuming material quality is not an issue. Not sure tho. I've been told that it may be best to use 8" filters with a 6" fan.

See my 6" filters (6x24) only weight 20lbs, 440cfm for $50. Compared to a 12" (12x60) which is 140lbs, 1300cfm for $350.

With that being said, it's relatively the same price for the same weight. But the larger filer has a 2.5" bed thickness, compared to 1.5". and the cfm is 2600 compared to 3600.

Another theory of mine is to buy 8" filters for $70 they hold over 35 lbs and rated at 800cfm. Allowing most contact time and material for your buck.

With all this being said, experience trumps knowledge everytime. So your opinion is very valued here.

Thanks guys.

Peace love & respect

Jay

Hey JJ
Looks like you need to use the KISS technique to figure this out and to save time for enjoying herb.
OK here goes.
Your 6" filter costs $50 and already works perfect for your grow 3 times . Right?

Peace

My 8 inch filter is several years old and while it doesnt work as well as it used to it still makes a huge differance. I added a 6 inch filter an it seems fine. I pull threw the 8 inch then push out the 6 inch.

Same as above. I would rather oversize it, which also means the fan does have to work as hard. And change every couple years instead.

How about a third option:
Buy 20 pounds of activated carbon granules for $10 and refill your filter.