Choosing the Perfect Air Filter for Your HVAC System

Keeping clean, fresh indoor air is a top priority for comfort-minded homeowners and using the correct HVAC air filter plays a crucial role in providing it. Follow this guide to help you select the right filter type, size and MERV rating for your home’s indoor air quality needs. 

When Should You Change Your Air Filter? 

The first thing to consider is the frequency you need to replace the filter. The general recommendation for everyday residential filters is to replace them every 90 days for the average home without pets. If you have a dog or cat, shorten this to every other month. For homes with several animals or family members with allergies, your schedule should be as often as every 30 days. 

Selecting the Right Air Filter Size 

Not all heating and cooling systems are built the same, so major brands make air filters to fit multiple kinds of filter slots. Buying the correct size provides a tight seal without any gaps large enough for air to slip past the filter. Here are a few tips to determine the best filter size: 

  • Examine the current filter for a label indicating the dimensions. 
  • Compare this with the filter slot. Confirm the height, width and depth to ensure a snug fit without forcing the filter into the opening. 
  • Look in the HVAC manual, which should specify the filter size and type suggested for your system. 

Kinds of HVAC Air Filters 

Different filter materials and designs are all offering air quality improvements, and each is tailored to different needs. Here are some widely used types: 

  • Fiberglass filters are the most straightforward and affordable option. Made from layered fiberglass strands, they protect the HVAC system from large 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 larger surface area to trap more particles. 
  • Electrostatic filters employ self-charging fibers to collect airborne particles. They come in both single-use and washable forms. 
  • HEPA filters offer exceptional filtration. However, because they severely limit airflow, they are usually installed in medical facilities, clean rooms and other commercial properties. If you would like 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 scale used to assess air filter performance. Ratings can be anywhere from 1 to 20, with the highest numbers signifying a filter’s ability to collect increasingly finer particles. 

  • MERV 1-4 represent the most basic filters, helping trap large particles like dust, pollen, lint and carpet fibers. They offer basic filtration but are cost-effective for simple applications without pets or allergies. 
  • MERV 5-8 are better suited for homes and commercial buildings where pet dander, mold spores, pollen and dusting aids need more constant handling. They balance cost and filtration capability, making them a favored option among homeowners. 
  • MERV 9-12 suit filters that can trap legionella, humidifier dust, auto emissions and more. They provide improved air quality to help minimize allergies or mild asthma symptoms. 
  • MERV 13-16 are viewed as the highest-end filters for residential use. They’re the standard choice in hospitals and similar commercial properties where clean air is necessary. These designs trap bacteria, tobacco smoke and even some virus particles. 
  • MERV 17-20 ratings are mostly found in HEPA filters, which trap approximately 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns in size, such as lead dust, humidifier dust, asbestos fibers and other incredibly small particles. 

How to Make Your Selection 

When settling on the ideal home air filter, focus on these factors: 

  • Household needs: Those with pets, allergy and asthma sufferers, and homes in areas with high dust or pollution may benefit from a filter with a stronger MERV rating. 
  • System compatibility: Before you upgrade to a filter with MERV 12, make sure your HVAC system can support the increased filtration without compromising airflow. 
  • Filter thickness: Filters that are 4 to 5 inches thick generally last longer and provide more consistent filtration than standard 1-inch filters. Ensure your system can accommodate the size. 
  • Cost vs. benefits: High-end filters have a higher initial price tag but need replacement less often and provide better air quality. Try to consider all the potential long-term savings and health benefits before you make your decision. 
  • HVAC professional’s advice: The best way to know you’ve made an informed decision is to speak with an HVAC technician offering trusted advice based on your home’s system and air quality needs. 

Breathe Your Best with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning 

When you’re ready for a better air filter, let Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning assist you in making the right selection. We install various air filtration systems to protect your HVAC equipment and minimize asthma and allergy symptoms. We take pride in enhancing your life and comfort through our tailored, professional services. For assistance with choosing the right air filter or other HVAC needs, please contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning today. 

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