A furnace filter is a key part of your heating system. It catches dust, pollen, pet hair, mold spores, and more from the air that passes through the furnace. A furnace filter is an important component of your system because it stops these dust particles from spreading around your home, lessens allergens, and keeps the air clean and fresh. To add to that, a furnace filter guards your HVAC system by keeping dirt from blocking it. This helps your system work better and last longer.
But how to choose the right filter furnace for your unit? Read on to find out.
For more information and help choosing the best filter for your HVAC system, contact the heating and air conditioning experts at Galmiche & Sons in St. Louis.
How to Choose the Right Furnace Filter
Here are some pointers to keep in mind when choosing the right furnace filter.
Size the Furnace Filter Correctly
Firstly, locate the filter slot in your unit and measure it. You need to check the length, width, and depth of the filter with a tape measure. When buying a new one, you should also verify the measurements of your existing one and buy a new one of the same size.
You might come across a rounded-off figure at stores, which is the nominal size. But you need to be sure to purchase according to the actual size, as per the measurements you have taken.
Decide on the Optimal MERV Rating
The MERV rating tells you how good a furnace filter is at trapping airborne particles. The higher the MERV rating, the better the filter works. Typically, air filter MERV ratings lie between 1-20. In general, a ranking of 8 can capture over 70% of large airborne particles and close to 20% of medium-sized particles.
When choosing a MERV rating, it is ideal to analyze the quality of the air in your home. If you live in a polluted area, have pets at home, or have heavy carpets, you may want to choose an air filter with a higher MERV rating. This will ensure that your air quality remains good, especially if you have a loved one suffering from asthma at home. One thing to note is that an air filter with a higher MERV rating will result in reduced airflow. Ensure that you check with an HVAC professional if your furnace unit can adjust to the new filter.
Consider the Type of Furnace Filter
- A fiberglass filter usually has a lower MERV rating, which is not so great if you want the best air quality, but they are the most affordable and energy efficient -so your bills will not shoot up.
- A pleated air filter typically has higher MERV ratings, ensuring high air quality, but results in reduced airflow and possibly higher energy costs.
If you are planning to buy a higher rated filter, ensure that your furnace can handle the new filter with the appropriate MERV rating so that there is no damage to the unit during replacement.
Schedule Top-Notch HVAC Services with Galmiche & Sons
Whether you are looking to install a new furnace or require maintenance for your old one, Galmiche & Sons is here to help you out. Founded in 1950, Galmiche & Sons has been the most trusted name in St. Louis for everything HVAC-related. From replacing your furnace filter to upgrading your furnace, we can help. Get in touch with our experts today to schedule your HVAC maintenance!
