Picking the Right Air Filter for Your HVAC System

Maintaining clean, healthy indoor air is a top priority for comfort-minded homeowners and using the right HVAC air filter plays a significant part in providing it. Follow this guide to help you select the perfect filter kind, dimensions and overall filtration efficiency rating for your home’s indoor air quality needs. 

What Is the Best Time to Change Your Air Filter? 

The first thing to consider is when to replace the filter. The general recommendation for standard residential filters is to replace them every 90 days for the typical home without pets. If you have a pet, reduce this to every other month. For homes with multiple pets or family members with allergies, you might want to replace the filter as often as every 30 days. 

Choosing the Perfect Air Filter Size 

Not all home comfort systems are the same, so major brands make air filters to fit different-sized slots. Getting the correct size means a snug fit without air leaking past the filter. Here are three ways to determine the right filter size: 

• Look at the filter already in place for a label indicating the dimensions. 

• Measure the filter slot. Confirm the height, width and depth to ensure a perfect fit without forcing the filter into the opening. 

• Refer to the HVAC manual, which should specify the filter size and type recommended for your system. 

Kinds of HVAC Air Filters 

Different filter materials and designs are all offering air quality improvements, and each is suited for different needs. Here are some popular types: 

• Fiberglass filters are the most basic and economical option. Made from layered fiberglass strands, they help trap larger particles that could damage the equipment. However, they don’t filter small particles that can be an issue for people with respiratory problems, so don’t count on them to deliver top-of-the-line indoor air quality. 

• Pleated filters using polyester or cotton folds offer a bigger 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 exceptional filtration. However, because they drastically restrict airflow, they are usually installed in medical facilities, clean rooms and other commercial properties. If you prefer a HEPA filter in your residential HVAC system, work with a heating and cooling technician to determine compatibility. 

Air Filter MERV Ratings 

Minimum efficiency reporting value, or MERV, is the scale used to evaluate air filter effectiveness. Ratings span 1 to 20, with high numbers indicating a filter’s ability to trap very fine particles. 

• MERV 1-4 represent the most basic filters, helping trap large particles like dust, pollen, lint and carpet fibers. They provide limited filtration but are budget-friendly for simple applications without pets or allergies. 

• MERV 5-8 are recommended for homes and commercial buildings where pet dander, mold spores, pollen and dusting aids need control. They strike a balance between cost and filtration capability, making them a popular choice among homeowners. 

• MERV 9-12 suit filters that can help with legionella, humidifier dust, auto emissions and more. They provide improved air quality to help minimize allergies or mild asthma symptoms. 

• MERV 13-16 are considered the highest-end filters for residential use. They’re also often used in hospitals and similar commercial properties where pure air is necessary. These filters can capture bacteria, tobacco smoke and even some virus particles. 

• MERV 17-20 ratings are mostly found in HEPA filters, which capture approximately 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns in size, like lead dust, humidifier dust, asbestos fibers and other incredibly small particles. 

How to Make Your Selection 

When figuring out which type is the right home air filter, consider these factors: 

• Household needs: Those with pets, people with allergies or asthma, and homes in dusty or high-pollution environments may do best using a filter with a greater MERV rating. 

• System compatibility: Before upgrading to a filter above MERV 12, verify that your HVAC system can accommodate the higher MERV rating without restricting airflow. 

• Filter thickness: 4- to 5-inch-thick filters generally last longer and provide better filtration than standard 1-inch filters. Just make sure your system can accommodate the size. 

• Cost vs. benefits: Premium filters are more expensive but need to be replaced less often and provide healthier indoor air quality. Try to consider all the potential long-term savings and health benefits before you make your decision. 

• HVAC professional’s advice: The most reliable method 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 Easier with A1 Chesney Service Experts 

If you’re looking for a better air filter, let A1 Chesney Service Experts assist you in making the right selection. We can install high-efficiency air filtration systems to better protect your HVAC equipment and alleviate asthma and allergy symptoms. We take pride in making a meaningful difference in your life and comfort with help from our customized, professional services. For assistance with picking the right air filter or other HVAC needs, please contact A1 Chesney Service Experts today.