Routine maintenance is essential to keep your home’s HVAC system running properly. One of the most specific and crucial aspects of furnace maintenance is keeping the air filter clean. A clean air filter improves the quality of the air in your home and helps your HVAC system perform at peak efficiency. Conversely, a dirty filter will restrict the flow of air, which can cause your HVAC system to fail. Experts say that HVAC air filters must be changed every 30 to 60 days. But choosing between the different types of furnace filters can be a challenge.
Types of Furnace Filters
A few different furnace filter types will filter the air and improve your HVAC system’s performance. Although some are inexpensive and readily available at a local home improvement store, other options require installation by a trained professional. Here are some tips to help make the filter choice easier for you.
Fiberglass Filters
This is the most common type of furnace air filter since they’re both widely available and inexpensive. These filters are created from fiberglass strands held together in a frame. They’re good at catching large airborne particles like dust, but they aren’t able to purify the air like some of the other types of filters available.
Pleated Filters
These filters can be polyester, paper, or cotton. The material is folded into accordion-like pleats, which increases the surface area. That means they can capture dust, dirt, pet dander, dust mites, and even hair before it enters the HVAC system. In addition, they’re available in both washable and disposable forms.
MERV Filters
Most types of furnace filters available for residential units carry a MERV rating. MERV is an acronym for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, and it’s used to describe the level of filtration a filter provides. MERV rankings range from 1 to 16; the higher the ranking, the better the filter performs.
HEPA Filters
HEPA filters are very good at trapping airborne contaminants. Because the densely packed fibers can remove up to 99.7 percent of particles that are 0.3 microns or larger. As a result, they eliminate allergens, dust, dirt, and other irritants from the air before reaching the HVAC system for improved air quality.
Which Type of Furnace Filter Is Best?
The answer to that question depends upon the manufacturer’s recommendation, what you expect from the filter, and your budget.
Manufacturer’s Recommendation
Before you go out and buy a new furnace filter, take the time to read your owner’s manual. You’ll not only find instructions for changing the filter but also recommendations about the size and type of filter to use. They’ve tested the different types of filters, and they know which ones work best in your furnace.
Your Air Quality Needs
Indoor air quality can significantly impact people who suffer from allergies or other breathing problems. If this is the case for someone in your household, consider a filter that removes more particles from the air. However, a less expensive fiberglass filter may satisfy your needs if health issues are not a concern.
What’s Your Budget for Furnace Filters?
The price varies considerably for different types of furnace filters. They start at a few dollars each for the fiberglass type, while the higher-end filters have a heftier price tag. While it’s true in this case that you get what you pay for, you don’t have to break the bank to improve. If you’re on a tight budget, an inexpensive, new filter is better than a clogged high-end filter.
Conclusion
Your HVAC system works hard all year to keep your family comfortable, and it needs a little attention from time to time. Ensure you’re checking your air filters and changing them regularly to ensure the air flows freely. You’ll save money on your utility bills because your unit will run more efficiently and extend your HVAC system’s life. Contact us if you want more information about HVAC filters, and we’ll be happy to help you make the right choice for your system.
