Picking the Right Air Filter for Your HVAC System
Maintaining clean, fresh indoor air is a top priority for most homeowners and using the correct HVAC air filter plays a big part in providing it. Follow this guide to help you select the perfect filter type, 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 the frequency you need 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 pet, reduce this to every 60 days. For homes with many pets or family members with allergies, your schedule should be as often as every 30 days.
Choosing the Perfect Air Filter Size
Not all heating and cooling systems are built the same, so manufacturers make air filters to fit different-sized slots. Only using the correct size ensures a tight seal without air leaking past the filter. Here are three ways to determine the perfect filter size:
- Look at the existing filter for a label detailing the dimensions.
- Compare this with the filter slot. Measure the height, width and depth to ensure a tight seal without forcing the filter into the opening.
- Consult the HVAC manual, which should indicate the filter size and type advised for your system.
Varieties of HVAC Air Filters
Different filter materials and designs are available, and each is tailored to different needs. Here are some popular types:
- Fiberglass filters are the most basic and cost-effective 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 industrial-grade indoor air quality.
- Pleated filters made from polyester or cotton folds offer a greater surface area to trap more particles.
- Electrostatic filters use self-charging fibers to capture and hold airborne particles. They come in both disposable and reuseable forms.
- HEPA filters offer remarkable filtration. However, because they significantly reduce airflow, they are usually used to maintain air quality in medical facilities, clean rooms and other commercial properties. If you prefer a HEPA filter in your residential HVAC system, collaborate with a heating and cooling technician to determine compatibility.
The MERV Rating System for Air Filters
Minimum efficiency reporting value, or MERV, is the standard used to evaluate air filter efficiency. Ratings span 1 to 20, with higher numbers demonstrating a filter’s ability to trap very fine particles.
- MERV 1-4 are for the most basic filters, helping trap large particles such as pet dander, pollen, lint and carpet fibers. They provide limited filtration but are a solid and economical choice 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 more constant handling. They strike a balance between cost and filtration capability, 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 relieve allergies or mild asthma symptoms.
- MERV 13-16 are seen as some of the very best filters for residential use. They’re also often used in hospitals and any other industries where clean air is necessary. These filters can capture bacteria, tobacco smoke and even a few virus particles.
- MERV 17-20 ratings are mostly found in HEPA filters, which trap at least 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns in size, including lead dust, humidifier dust, asbestos fibers and other ultrafine particles.
Tips for Making Your Selection
When settling on the perfect home air filter, don’t forget about these factors:
- Household needs: Pet owners, allergy and asthma sufferers, and homes in dusty or high-pollution environments may benefit from a filter with a higher MERV rating.
- System compatibility: Before you upgrade to a filter with MERV 12, verify that your HVAC system can accommodate the higher MERV rating without compromising airflow.
- Filter thickness: Thicker filters, ranging from 4 to 5 inches, generally last longer and provide more consistent filtration than standard 1-inch filters. Verify your system can accommodate the size.
- Cost vs. benefits: High-end filters have a higher initial price tag but need to be replaced less often and provide higher air quality. Try to consider all the potential long-term savings and health benefits before you decide.
- HVAC professional’s advice: The safest approach to feel confident in your decision is to speak with an HVAC technician offering reliable advice based on your home’s system and air quality requirements.
Breathe Your Best 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 ideal selection. Our air filtration system installation service will protect your HVAC equipment and relieve asthma and allergy symptoms. We take pride in making a meaningful difference in your life and comfort through our personalized, professional services. For assistance with choosing the right air filter or other HVAC needs, please contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning today.