It is every homeowners wish in Festus and the surrounding areas to maintain comfort and excellent indoor air quality. To achieve this, they have to make sure their HVAC system is fitted with the right components and in good working condition. One of the most essential components of an HVAC unit that affects its performance is the air filter.
Most homeowners find it challenging to choose the right air filter for their HVAC systems due to the wide variety of options in the market. They opt to stick with the same air filter brand, model, and type on their HVAC units without thinking they could be compromising the indoor air quality and the health of their HVAC equipment.
Single-Use or Reusable Air Filters
HVAC system air filters can either be single-use or reusable. Single-use air filters cost less when compared to reusable air filters. However, they have to be replaced on a regular basis, as often as every one to three months. Reusable air filters can always be washed and reused again; hence, they help reduce the amount of waste going to the landfill. These air filters can last for more than a decade when you use the right washing and drying techniques.
Filter Size
Shopping for an air filter of the right size is among the most important secrets to getting your HVAC unit to perform at its best. When not sure about the size of the air filter to purchase, you can always pull out your existing air filter and check the measurement, which is always indicated on the sides. Most HVAC system user manuals will also have this data indicated. You can also perform a brief internet search to check on the right size of air filter your HVAC unit brand and model uses.
MERV Rating
One of the most important things you must always check when shopping for the right air filter for your HVAC system is its performance. There are different formats for ranking an air filter’s performance, with the most common one being the minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) rating. MERV rating is a standard that is used in defining the ability of an air filter to collect airborne particles. Air filters with high MERV ratings have finer filtration levels while those with lower MERV ratings will have to be replaced regularly. However, air filters with high MERV ratings do cost more despite the quality of air improvement being worth the price.
Personal Needs
Every home has different filtration needs. For example, there are homes with someone suffering from severe allergies triggered by pollen, dust, or other airborne contaminants. In such a home, a stronger air filter capable of removing more dust, pollen, and airborne contaminants in the air will be a worthy investment. However, when you do not have any special needs, it will not be necessary to invest in a hospital-grade air filter that offers maximum purification. Instead, a standard air filter will be fine.
Those whose homes are exposed to lots of air contamination, such as cigarette smoke, pets, or dust, will have to replace their air filters regularly. The more frequently you will be replacing your air filter, the more likely you will want to settle for an easier-to-purchase and cheaper air filter in the market.
Maintenance and Lifespan
HVAC systems and air filters have varying maintenance schedules. Some models and brands suit tougher environments and larger spaces and are known to cost more. Such air filters are known to require extensive maintenance practices from professional HVAC system technicians compared to air filters meant for smaller spaces.
It’s also important to consider the lifespan of an air filter when shopping for one. In most cases, air filters have a lifespan of one to three months depending on their MERV rating and material type. However, air filters such as HEPA filters have a shorter lifespan and will have to be replaced sooner.
Trust Bone Heating & Cooling for All Your HVAC System Needs
Since our inception in 1978, Bone Heating & Cooling has been serving its customers with top-notch and reliable HVAC services. Our experienced staff will help you solve all your air filter needs. We are very handy when it comes to ductwork, new construction, sheet metal fabrication, mini splits, and system-wide maintenance as well. Call us today or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We proudly serve homeowners and businesses in Festus and the surrounding communities.
