The right HVAC filters can make a huge difference in the quality of air you breathe in your home. From removing impurities like dust, pet dander, and bacteria to improving air quality and protecting your HVAC system, the right filter can make all the difference. When it comes to the health and comfort of your family, friends, and other guests, it's important to get the most efficient air filter you can afford. Not only do filters allow people to breathe easier, but they can also reduce odors and make your home a more pleasant place to live.
If you want to purify the air in your home even further, consider adding an air purifier. It's also important to remember that failure to replace a dirty or clogged filter will affect the efficiency of your car's heating and cooling system. Poor efficiency can cause other problems, such as loss of air volume, bad odors in the cabin, or premature failure of HVAC components. Simply replacing a dirty filter can make a big difference to your car's air quality.
When it comes time to replace your filter, does it really matter what type of filter you choose? Aren't all filters basically the same? The answer is no - there are many different types of filters available on the market today. Household HVAC air filters are rated based on their MERV rating, with most household filters between 1 and 13 (more than 13 are for HEPA filters). The only type of filters that trap allergens and spores are HEPA, or high-energy particulate air filters. An electrostatic air filter is a washable air filter that uses static electricity to capture particles.
Thanks to today's smart home technology, you can even purchase smart filters such as 3M Filtrete smart air filters that use sensors to monitor airflow. High-end permanent filters can compete with the very common disposable pleated filters, which are available in a range, even reaching MERV 12 or higher. For example, hospitals use filters with a rating of 16, but that's not necessary for your home environment, and using a filter with such a high rating will increase your energy costs. When it comes to changing your AC filter, it's generally recommended that you change it at least every season, if not once a month. If you've never changed your air conditioning filter before, the easiest way is to have an HVAC technician do it the first time.
When you change your air conditioning filter every month during peak cooling season, you can save about 15% each month on utilities, as well as avoid repair problems due to airflow restrictions. Not only do filters remove dust allergens, mold spores, and other pollutants from the air your family breathes, but they also filter out fine dirt particles that can degrade the performance of the HVAC system itself. Even so, HVAC filters certainly influence indoor air quality, and choosing the right filter is important.
