The use of forced heating and cooling systems (HVACs) is the most common way to stay comfortable indoors in the United States. The most crucial component of the HVAC system's overall function is the air filter. It is extremely important to replace home air filters regularly to keep your heating and air conditioning units working efficiently and effectively. Purchasing the right air filter for your system is also important. When shopping for the right replacement filters, there are several things to look for. The brand of the filter doesn't necessarily matter, it's finding a filter that removes the most pollutants (MERV rating) from the air AND one that allows your HVAC system to perform efficiently. Here are some common misconceptions about air filters to help further educate you on their importance.
Air Filters Just Keep Dust off HVAC Equipment
Although this was the original purpose of air filters, their role has expanded. Now they serve the even more important purpose of filtering out airborne contaminants and particulates from the indoor air we breathe. In other words, air filters improve your Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)!
Air Filters Don't Need to be Replaced as Often as Recommended
Air filters become ineffective if they are not cleaned or replaced regularly and this can lead to a multitude of problems. If air filters are not replaced on a regular basis, they become clogged with the airborne particulates they are trying to filter out of the air. Eventually, the filter becomes completely blocked and the dust/mold is pushed back into our indoor air. Airflow also becomes restricted putting strain on your HVAC equipment and increasing your energy bills. Check the filter monthly and clean or replace it according to the manufacturer's directions. For the best results, change your air filter every 30-90 days!
Pet Owners Don't Need to Change Filters More Often
Air filters may need to be changed up to twice as often if you own a pet, especially long-haired breeds. Pet hair and dander can build up quickly on the filter, reducing its efficiency. Use high-efficiency pleated air filters and free-standing room air cleaners for extra filtration in the rooms your pet spends the most time in to keep your indoor air as clean as possible.
All Filters are the Same
The first thing to understand when it comes to the different air filters are MERV ratings. MERV stands for Minimum Efficiently Reporting Value. This number tells you the effectiveness of the air filter and is calculated by measuring the number of particles a filter can trap and comparing that to the number the particles it's trying to filter. In other words, if there are two filters in the same room, the one that traps fewer particles has a lower MERV rating. This doesn't always mean you should just buy the filter with the highest MERV rating. If you purchase a filter with too high a MERV rating it can make your HVAC system less efficient as it blocks too much of the airflow and eventually causes equipment damage and higher energy bills. The best choice is to go with a filter that removes the most pollutants (MERV rating) and still allows your HVAC system to perform as efficiently as possible.
High-Efficiency Filters Can be Used in any HVAC System
Using high-efficiency air filters may require HVAC system modifications to increase the fan output and compensate for the restricted airflow. As mentioned above, choosing a filter with the highest MERV rating (meaning the highest efficiency) that isn't meant for your HVAC system can make it less efficient as it blocks too much of the airflow. Modifications would be needed for a MERV 8 filter in a system that only allows for a MERV 4 or lower filter.
All Filters are the Same Size
HVAC units have a very specific area where the air filter resides, and it needs to fit correctly in order to perform efficiently. Filters don’t need to have an “airtight” seal, but they should be easy to install and uninstall without a struggle. For most systems, you can use a standard-sized filter within 5/8 of an inch smaller than the air filter housing allowing the filter to slide in and out with ease. Most HVAC units use standard-sized filters; however, some do require a custom size air filter. According to EPA.gov, incorrectly designed or installed filter frames can cause air seepage, which significantly decreases filter effectiveness. Airflow resistance caused by using the incorrect size filter results in unnecessary stress on your HVAC unit, potential damage to the equipment, and increase energy bills.
Having air filters in stock at your house makes it easier to stick with changing them monthly. Buying a whole box of air filters means you have them available when the time comes to change the filter and a trip to the store isn't necessary.
No matter which HVAC system you have, every unit needs a quality filter that fits properly to keep your indoor air quality clean and your heat running at its maximum efficiency. US Home Filter can supply you with the best and most efficient HVAC filter available! Changing the filter is as important as changing the oil in your car and US Home Filter makes filters that fit all AC/HVAC units. From standard to custom air filters, to whole-house filters, grille filters, and humidifier filters, we have all of your filter needs covered!
Selecting the filters that are right for your home can be difficult and confusing at times. At US Home Filter we understand this, which is why we offer an experienced staff to help answer any questions you may have. For personal assistance with your air filter needs, please contact us now online or call us at (855) 237-1673 and we will do our very best to assist you in selecting the right filter for your individual needs. We want to earn your business and we guarantee your satisfaction! Take advantage of our quality products, vast selection, low prices, and enjoy FREE SHIPPING on every air filter order within the Contiguous USA.
