Choosing the Right Air Filter for Your HVAC System

Ensuring clean, pure indoor air is a top priority for comfort-minded homeowners and using the appropriate HVAC air filter plays a big part in providing it. Follow this guide to figure out the ideal filter type, size and MERV rating for your home’s indoor air quality needs. 

When Should You Change Your Air Filter? 

The first thing to to determine is how often you should replace the filter. The most common suggestion for conventional residential filters is to replace them every 90 days for the standard home without pets. If you have a furry friend, 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. 

Selecting the Correct Air Filter Size 

Not all home comfort systems are the same, so major brands make air filters to fit multiple kinds of filter slots. Only using the correct size means a tight seal without air leaking past the filter. Here are three ways to determine the right filter size: 

• Check the filter already in place for a label listing the dimensions. 

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

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

Varieties of HVAC Air Filters 

Various filter materials and designs are on the market, and each is designed for different needs. Here are some common types: 

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

• Pleated filters fabricated with light polyester or cotton folds offer a larger surface area to trap smaller particles. 

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

• HEPA filters offer exceptional filtration. However, because they drastically restrict airflow, they are usually reserved for medical facilities, clean rooms and other commercial industries. If you would like a HEPA filter in your residential HVAC system, work with a heating and cooling technician to determine compatibility. 

The MERV Rating System for Air Filters 

Minimum efficiency reporting value, or MERV, is the standard used to assess air filter performance. Ratings span 1 to 20, with higher numbers signifying a filter’s ability to trap very fine particles. 

• MERV 1-4 describe the common air filters, helpful for large particles such as pet dander, pollen, lint and carpet fibers. They offer minimal filtration but are budget-friendly 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 more constant handling. They balance cost and filtration capability, making them a common selection among homeowners. 

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

• MERV 13-16 are considered some of the very best filters for residential use. They’re the standard choice in hospitals and similar commercial properties where clean air is necessary. These designs trap bacteria, tobacco smoke and even some virus particles. 

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

Tips for Making Your Selection 

When figuring out which type is the perfect home air filter, focus on 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 handle it without restricting airflow. 

• Filter thickness: Filters that are 4 to 5 inches thick tend to last you longer and offer stronger filtration than standard 1-inch filters. Just make sure your system is capable of using that size filter. 

• Cost vs. benefits: High-end filters are more expensive but need less frequent changing and provide higher air quality. Make a rough estimate of 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 speak with an HVAC technician who can offer reliable advice based on your home’s system and air quality goals. 

Breathe Better with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning 

When you’re ready for a better air filter, let Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning help you make the perfect selection. We install various air filtration systems to 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 tailored, professional services. For assistance with selecting the right air filter or other HVAC needs, please contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning today.