Picking the Right Air Filter for Your HVAC System

Ensuring clean, fresh indoor air is a top priority for most homeowners and using the appropriate HVAC air filter plays a significant part in providing it. Take a look at this guide to help you select the right 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 to determine is how often you should replace the filter. The general recommendation for standard residential filters is to replace them every 90 days for the standard home without pets. If you have a dog or cat, shorten this to every two months. For homes with multiple pets or family members with allergies, you might want to replace the filter as often as every 30 days. 

Choosing the Perfect Air Filter Size 

Not all HVAC systems are built the same, so different companies make air filters to fit multiple kinds of filter slots. Getting the correct size provides a tight seal without any gaps large enough for air to slip past the filter. Here are three ways to determine the right filter size: 

  • Look at the current filter for a label listing the dimensions. 
  • Take measurements of the filter slot. Measure the height, width and depth for a tight seal without forcing the filter into the opening. 
  • Consult the HVAC manual, which should specify the filter size and type advised for your system. 

Types of HVAC Air Filters 

Various filter materials and designs are all offering air quality improvements, and each is designed for different needs. Here are some popular types: 

  • Fiberglass filters are the simplest and affordable option. Made from stacked fiberglass strands, they help trap larger particles that could accumulate on the equipment. However, they don’t filter small particles that are harmful to breathe, so don’t count on them to deliver the highest possible indoor air quality. 
  • Pleated filters made from polyester or cotton folds offer a bigger surface area to trap finer particles. 
  • Electrostatic filters use self-charging fibers to collect airborne particles. They come in both disposable and washable forms. 
  • HEPA filters offer exceptional filtration. However, because they drastically restrict airflow, they are usually used to maintain air quality in medical facilities, clean rooms and other commercial applications. If you would like a HEPA filter in your residential HVAC system, consult a heating and cooling technician to determine compatibility. 

Air Filter MERV Ratings 

Minimum efficiency reporting value, or MERV, is the system used to measure air filter efficiency. Ratings span 1 to 20, with high numbers demonstrating a filter’s ability to collect very fine particles. 

  • MERV 1-4 represent the common air filters, helpful for large particles such as pet dander, pollen, lint and carpet fibers. They are meant for minimal filtration but are budget-friendly for simple applications without pets or allergies. 
  • MERV 5-8 are ideal for homes and commercial buildings where pet dander, mold spores, pollen and dusting aids need control. They offer a good balance between cost and filtration capability, making them a favored option among homeowners. 
  • MERV 9-12 suit filters that can help with legionella, humidifier dust, auto emissions and more. They provide enhanced air quality to help minimize allergies or mild asthma symptoms. 
  • MERV 13-16 are considered some of the very best filters for residential use. They’re found in hospitals and any other industries where clean and healthy air is necessary. You can use these filters to trap bacteria, tobacco smoke and even certain virus particles. 
  • MERV 17-20 ratings are exclusive to HEPA filters, capable of trapping approximately 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns in size, such as lead dust, humidifier dust, asbestos fibers and other ultrafine particles. 

Other Tips You Can Use to Make Your Selection 

When settling on the right home air filter, consider these factors: 

  • Household needs: Those with pets, people with allergies or asthma, and homes in areas with high dust or pollution may benefit from a filter with a higher MERV rating. 
  • System compatibility: Before you go out and buy a filter with a rating of MERV 12, verify that your HVAC system can support the increased filtration without restricting airflow. 
  • Filter thickness: Thicker filters, ranging from 4 to 5 inches, generally last longer and provide better filtration than standard 1-inch filters. Just make sure your system is capable of using that size filter. 
  • Cost vs. benefits: More expensive filters have a higher initial price tag but need to be replaced less often and provide higher air quality. Make a rough estimate of the potential long-term savings and health benefits before you make your decision. 
  • HVAC professional’s advice: The safest approach to know you’ve made an informed decision is to speak with an HVAC technician who can offer expert advice based on your home’s system and air quality requirements. 

Breathe Better with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning 

If you’re looking for a better air filter, let Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning help you make the right selection. We can install high-efficiency air filtration systems to better protect your HVAC equipment and alleviate asthma and allergy symptoms. We take pride in enhancing your life and comfort through our tailored, professional services. For assistance with selecting the right air filter or other HVAC needs, please contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning today. 

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