Choosing Replacement Air Filters

There are many different tasks involved in HVAC maintenance and one of them is changing the air filters, which are also known as furnace or AC filters. It is interesting to note that the main purpose of the filters is to protect the components, but technological advancement has made it possible for them to capture air-polluting particles and improve home indoor air quality. How do you choose the right model? Here is some important advice to help you with this.

Always Check the Rating

All HVAC air filters receive a MERV rating. MERV stands for minimum efficiency reporting value. Basically, it shows how well the respective model captures particles which contaminate the indoor air. The higher the MERV rating of a filter is, the better it will work to protect your family. With it, you may need air duct cleaning less often too.

Checking the rating is a very easy way to spot reliable products and to compare them. Each air filter can receive a MERV rating from 1 to 20, with 1 being the lowest. It is important to note that the models for home use rarely have a rating above 14 or 15 and the majority have a rating below 10. There is no room for disappointment, however, since the models with the highest minimum efficiency reporting value are made to be used in public buildings like hospitals and universities.

Disposable or Permanent Filters?

This is one of the major questions when it comes to air filter replacement. The most widely used disposable filters, the pleated ones, should be changed every three months on average. You have to follow a strict schedule if you want to maintain a healthy indoor environment. Permanent filters on the other side have to be washed on a regular basis. You are typically required to hand-wash them. With proper maintenance, you can keep them for a long time to come. The permanent electrostatic filters, for example, can work well for as many as eight years, if they receive cleaning regularly. Hence, air filter cleaning can help you save money.

Other Important Considerations

You should check if and how the new filter may affect the performance of your HVAC system. You wouldn’t want to use a product which slows it down and that boosts your energy bills. That is why, if you are unsure, always consult with professionals on this choice concern. Last but not least, the size of the filters is an important matter to consider. You should always opt for a new filter that will fit properly into the system.

Get Professional Help

Choosing the right air filters for your HVAC unit is an important issue to consider if you want your indoor air quality to be high and your system of maximum efficiency. For any concerns or services needed, our technicians from Air Duct Cleaning Palo Alto are happy to help!