Selecting the Ideal Air Filter for Your HVAC System

Keeping clean, healthy indoor air is a top priority for comfort-minded homeowners and using the correct HVAC air filter plays a big part in providing it. Take a look at this guide to help you select the right filter kind, size and overall filtration efficiency rating for your home’s indoor air quality needs. 

How Often Should You Change Your Air Filter? 

The first thing to to determine is when 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 furry friend, increase this to every two months. For homes with many pets or family members with allergies, your schedule should be as often as every 30 days. 

Choosing the Correct Air Filter Size 

Not all home comfort systems are identical, so major brands make air filters to fit different-sized slots. Getting the correct size provides a tight seal without allowing air to bypass the filter. Here are three ways to find out the right filter size: 

• Look at the current filter for a label indicating the dimensions. 

• Compare this with the filter slot. Confirm the height, width and depth for a perfect fit without forcing the filter into the opening. 

• Consult the HVAC manual, which should mention the filter size and type suggested for your system. 

Kinds of HVAC Air Filters 

Several filter materials and designs are on the market, and each is tailored to different needs. Here are some widely used types: 

• Fiberglass filters are the most basic and affordable option. Made from layered fiberglass strands, they trap larger particles that could damage the equipment. However, they don’t filter small particles which can be detrimental to health, so don’t count on them to deliver top-of-the-line indoor air quality. 

• Pleated filters using polyester or cotton folds offer a greater surface area to trap more particles. 

• Electrostatic filters employ self-charging fibers to capture and hold airborne particles. They come in both single-use and washable forms. 

• HEPA filters offer impressive filtration. However, because they drastically restrict airflow, they are usually installed in medical facilities, clean rooms and other commercial applications. 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 standard used to assess air filter efficiency. Ratings range from 1 to 20, with higher numbers indicating a filter’s ability to collect finer particles. 

• MERV 1-4 represent the most basic filters, helpful for large particles including allergens, pollen, lint and carpet fibers. They provide minimal 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 control. They strike a balance between cost and filtration equally, making them a common selection among homeowners. 

• MERV 9-12 are designed for filters that can help with legionella, humidifier dust, auto emissions and more. They provide superior 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 found in hospitals and similar commercial properties where clean air is necessary. These designs trap bacteria, tobacco smoke and even certain virus particles. 

• MERV 17-20 ratings are exclusive to HEPA filters, capable of trapping at least 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns in size, such as lead dust, humidifier dust, asbestos fibers and other microscopic particles. 

Tips for Making Your Selection 

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

• Household needs: Pet owners, allergy and asthma sufferers, and homes in areas with high dust or pollution may be better from 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 accommodate the higher MERV rating without compromising airflow. 

• Filter thickness: 4- to 5-inch-thick filters tend to last you longer and offer stronger filtration than standard 1-inch filters. Ensure your system can accommodate the size. 

• Cost vs. benefits: High-end filters are more expensive but need replacement less often and provide healthier indoor air quality. Calculate the potential long-term savings and health benefits before you decide. 

• HVAC professional’s advice: The best way to make an informed decision is to schedule a consultation with an HVAC technician offering trusted advice based on your home’s system and air quality needs. 

Breathe Easier with Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing 

If you’re in the market for a better air filter, let Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing guide you to the right selection. We install various air filtration systems to protect your HVAC equipment and minimize asthma and allergy symptoms. We take pride in improving the health of 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 & Plumbing today.