One of the constant messages mentioned in the HVAC industry is the importance of regularly checking and changing HVAC filters in your system. They play an important role in keeping your home’s air clean, and your HVAC system running at its best. With all of the importance placed on HVAC filters though, you may be asking yourself “How do HVAC filters work?”
At Galmiche & Sons, we are happy to answer all your questions on HVAC filters including “How do HVAC filters work?” We have been serving the people of St. Louis with quality HVAC service for many years, and we would be glad to take care of all your heating & conditioning needs. Call Galmiche & Sons today at 314-993-1110 to learn more and to schedule your regular HVAC maintenance.
What Do HVAC Filters Do?
For your HVAC system to continue functioning properly, it is important to keep the air that circulates through it clean. This is where your HVAC filter comes into play. The air in your home usually contains a lot of dust, dirt, and other contaminants, which could cause damage to your HVAC system. Contrary to the popular belief that the air is cleaned to protect your health, HVAC filters are primarily designed to to protect the blower fan in your HVAC system.
When air is drawn into the HVAC system, it is first warmed or cooled and then pushed through ducts that deliver it to all the rooms in your house. The HVAC filter cleans the air just before it is pulled in through the blower and circulated through the ducts. As the air is forced through the filter, the material, usually pleated cloth or paper, traps any contaminants that are in the air.
MERV Ratings for HVAC Filters
The level of efficiency of HVAC filters will vary between different HVAC systems and different types of filters. Minimum efficiency reporting value, or MERV, is the standard way of rating the efficiency and performance of HVAC filters. The MERV rating of the filter is usually indicated as a number between 1 and 16, although there are some filters with a rating above 16. A higher MERV rating indicates a more efficient filter, but it also means a more expensive system.
It is also important to note that HVAC filters with higher MERV ratings can interfere with the flow of air. They allow less air to flow through the HVAC system and this may eventually interfere with the heating & cooling system.
For most residential homes, HVAC filters with a MERV rating of 7-10 are recommended. However, it is important that you check the maximum MERV rating that the model of your system can handle.
Why Is It Important to Replace Your HVAC Filters?
With time, the filters in your HVAC system get clogged up due to all the dirt they filter. You should inspect your filter monthly and replace it if need be. Clogged filters have several disadvantages:
- They can cause damage to the entire system even possibly causing irreparable malfunctions
- They increase the energy usage thereby, increasing your energy bills
- They reduce airflow inside the system which causes the blower fans to wear out faster
- They are less effective and the air inside your home will contain more contaminants
Contact Us to Learn More on How HVAC Filters Work
At Galmiche & Sons, we understand how important it is that your HVAC system remains in good working condition, especially with hot St. Louis summers and cold winters. Call us at 314-993-1110 for all your questions on HVAC filters as well as other heating & conditioning needs!
