Picking the Right Air Filter for Your HVAC System
Ensuring clean, fresh indoor air is a top priority for many homeowners and using the appropriate HVAC air filter plays a significant part in providing it. Take a look at this guide to find the perfect filter kind, dimensions and efficiency rating for your home’s indoor air quality needs.
When Should You Change Your Air Filter?
The first thing to consider is when to replace the filter. The standard industry advice for everyday residential filters is to replace them every 90 days for the typical home without pets. If you have a four-legged companion, reduce this to every two months. For homes with several animals or family members with allergies, your schedule should be as often as every 30 days.
Choosing the Right Air Filter Size
Not all heating and cooling systems are identical, so major brands make air filters to fit various slots. Buying the correct size means a snug fit without allowing air to bypass the filter. Here are three ways to identify the best filter size:
- Look at the filter already in place for a label listing the dimensions.
- Compare this with the filter slot. Measure the height, width and depth so there’s a snug fit without forcing the filter into the opening.
- Look in the HVAC manual, which should mention the filter size and type best suited for your system.
Varieties of HVAC Air Filters
Several filter materials and designs are on the market, and each is suited for different needs. Here are some common types:
- Fiberglass filters are the most straightforward and economical option. Made from layered fiberglass strands, they trap larger particles that could settle on the equipment. However, they don’t filter small particles which can be detrimental to health, so don’t count on them to deliver the highest possible indoor air quality.
- Pleated filters made from polyester or cotton folds offer a larger surface area to trap finer particles.
- Electrostatic filters implement self-charging fibers to attract and trap airborne particles. They come in both single-use and washable forms.
- HEPA filters offer remarkable filtration. However, because they significantly reduce airflow, they are usually reserved for medical facilities, clean rooms and other commercial applications. If you want to use a HEPA filter in your residential HVAC system, work with a heating and cooling technician to determine compatibility.
Comparing Air Filters with MERV Ratings
Minimum efficiency reporting value, or MERV, is the standard used to measure air filter effectiveness. Ratings span 1 to 20, with the highest numbers signifying a filter’s ability to capture increasingly finer particles.
- MERV 1-4 describe the simplest of filters, helpful for large particles including allergens, pollen, lint and carpet fibers. They offer minimal filtration but are a solid and economical choice for simple applications without pets or allergies.
- MERV 5-8 are recommended for homes and commercial buildings where pet dander, mold spores, pollen and dusting aids need more constant handling. They strike a balance between cost and filtration for average needs, making them a favored option among homeowners.
- MERV 9-12 apply to filters that can trap legionella, humidifier dust, auto emissions and more. They provide enhanced air quality to help alleviate allergies or mild asthma symptoms.
- MERV 13-16 are viewed as top-of-the-line filters for residential use. They’re also often used in hospitals and similar commercial properties where clean and healthy air is necessary. These filters can capture bacteria, tobacco smoke and even some virus particles.
- MERV 17-20 are reserved for HEPA filters, which capture at least 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns in size, including lead dust, humidifier dust, asbestos fibers and other microscopic particles.
How to Make Your Selection
When deciding on the perfect home air filter, consider these factors:
- Household needs: Those with pets, allergy and asthma sufferers, and homes in dusty or high-pollution environments may do best using a filter with a greater MERV rating.
- System compatibility: Before you upgrade to a filter with MERV 12, make sure your HVAC system can handle it without restricting airflow.
- Filter thickness: Thicker filters, ranging from 4 to 5 inches, usually work longer and offer stronger filtration than standard 1-inch filters. Ensure your system is compatible.
- Cost vs. benefits: Premium filters have a higher initial price tag but need replacement less often and provide higher air quality. Try to consider all the potential long-term savings and health benefits before you make your decision.
- HVAC professional’s advice: The most reliable method to feel confident in your decision is to speak with an HVAC technician who will provide trusted advice based on your home’s system and air quality goals.
Breathe Your Best with Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing
If you’re looking for a better air filter, let Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing assist you in making the ideal selection. We can install high-efficiency air filtration systems to better protect your HVAC equipment and relieve asthma and allergy symptoms. We take pride in enhancing your life and comfort through our tailored, professional services. For assistance with picking the right air filter or other HVAC needs, please contact Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing today.