What Is the Best Air Filter for My Home?
How's your home's air quality? Chances are, you've underestimated just how important it is to choose a suitable HVAC air filter to keep your home clean of dust, manage odors, and remove allergens. After all, it's a common mistake.
How do you choose the best filter? We'll provide all the details, including:
We'll break everything down so you understand which HVAC filters provide the best airflow and which offer the best filtration.
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Understanding MERV Ratings: What Do They Mean?
Contaminants in your home's air vary in size, and not all air filters catch the tiniest particles. Wondering how you can gauge their effectiveness? Well, one of the best ways is to check the MERV rating.
A filter with a MERV rating of 1 to 4 traps less than 20% of particles between 3 and 10 microns, removing large particles like carpet fibers and dust mites. However, a filter with a rating of 16 traps 95% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including smoke and bacteria.
So, what is the best MERV rating for air filters in your home? Higher can be better if you're prone to allergies, but they also work your HVAC system harder. Fortunately, filters with a mid-level rating still trap plenty of mold, pet dander, and dust particles without impacting performance, so they're ideal for most households.
Types of Air Filters and Their Pros and Cons
Performance is one part of the equation, but there are also several filter types, including:
- Fiberglass is affordable with excellent airflow. However, it offers limited performance and requires frequent replacement.
- Pleated filters are economical with decent performance. However, they're slightly more expensive than fiberglass.
- Electrostatic filters are washable with excellent filtration. However, they lose performance without regular cleaning.
- HEP is the highest-performance filter. It removes up to 99.97% of 0.3-micron particles, but it may strain your system significantly.
- Activated carbon filters usually pair with other filter materials to remove odors and volatile chemicals at an added cost.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Air Filter
When deciding on a filter, check your system's documentation first to determine which HVAC filters your air handler supports. From there, think about these criteria:
- Allergies. People with respiratory conditions benefit from high MERV-rated and HEPA filters.
- Pets. Filters with MERV ratings of at least 5 catch pet dander effectively.
- Energy efficiency. Filters with lower MERV ratings place less strain on your HVAC system.
- Compatibility. Not all filters work with all systems, so check your HVAC documentation carefully.
How to Maintain and Replace Air Filters
Cleaning or replacing your air filters is one of the most important aspects of HVAC maintenance because it helps ensure clean airflow and limits strain on your system's fans and blower motor. Most filters need replacement every 1 to 3 months. However, earlier replacement might be necessary if you notice dust buildup, unexplained energy bill increases, or reduced airflow.
To replace your filters:
- Turn off your HVAC system.
- Locate the filters (usually near the return air duct, blower compartment, or ceiling vent).
- Slide out the old filter.
- Insert the new or cleaned filter using the directional arrows as a guide.
- Turn the system back on and test it.
Professional maintenance offers additional services, including testing all components of your HVAC system. This makes it a great investment for homeowners who want to maximize their system's performance.
Improving Air Quality With the Right Filter
Choosing the right air filter ensures your HVAC system runs quietly and efficiently while providing clean, comfortable air. It also reduces overall system strain to limit running costs and reduce component wear. However, even the best filter won't stop all wear and tear, so you'll still need to book regular tune-ups if you want to guarantee good performance and high air quality.
Breathe Easier With Advantage Air Mechanical — Find Your Perfect Air Filter Today!
Optimize your home's air quality with help from Advantage Air. Our trustworthy and NATE-certified technicians will discuss your home's needs and recommend the best filters.