As a homeowner, you realize the importance of ensuring that your HVAC system is running in top shape to most efficiently heat and cool your home while keeping energy costs low. The easiest and most cost-effective way to keep your furnace and air conditioner operating smoothly is to replace your furnace filter regularly. Depending on the type of air filter, you may need to change it out or clean it once every 6-12 months.
Continue reading to learn more about types of furnace filters, different ratings and effectiveness, and how replacing the air filter will benefit your furnace and your household.
To learn more and for help selecting the best furnace filter for your home, call us today at 314-993-1110 or contact our St. Louis heating & air conditioning experts online.
Standard Air Filter Rating
The MERV rating stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value and rates the effectiveness of an air filter’s ability to remove a variety of air particles. The scale is 1-20, and the higher the number, the smaller size of particles the air filter captures, increasing efficiency.
If your household suffers from allergies, we recommend installing an air filter with a minimum MERV rating of 8, which will filter out pet dander, dust mites, and mold spores. Before purchasing an air filter, be sure to check your HVAC system specifications to see what type and size will be compatible.
Common Types of Air Filters for Homeowners
Fiberglass Filters
These disposable air filters are generally an inch wide and are the least expensive. They protect the HVAC components but do little for improving air quality.
Since these furnace filters are very thin, buildup occurs quickly which can cause your furnace to overwork and result in additional problems. Be sure to retain a strict schedule to replace these filters in a timely manner to decrease potential issues for your HVAC system. The MERV rating for fiberglass filters is low, between 1 and 4.
Pleated and Polyester Filters
These filters offer a little more space within the pleats for filtering out dust and debris. It’s a popular design for disposable air filters and a variety of styles are available to choose from. For instance, there is a carbon-infused air filter that removes odors and a microbial-infused style that helps remove allergens. The MERV rating for these furnace filters is between 6-12.
Washable Filters
Washable filters are a reusable type of air filter that can be washed and reused. It is advisable to have 2 air filters when going with this style so the second filter can be installed while the recently cleaned filter has ample time to dry. It is imperative to let the filter completely dry before reinstallation to prevent mold from manifesting. Similar to fiberglass filters, the MERV rating for these air filters is between 1 and 4.
Media Air Cleaners
These heavy-duty filters are generally 4-6 inches wide and a professional must install them directly into the ductwork. The average cost ranges from $400-600 for this addition to your HVAC system. Before making the decision to incorporate this type of air filter, be sure to meet with a certified technician as airflow can potentially be reduced in the HVAC unit due to the filter. These air filters have a high MERV rating and can reduce energy efficiency, which could increase your utility bill.
Electronic Air Cleaners
This type of air filter works by putting an electrical charge on air particles that pass through and are trapped by a reversely charged collector. The benefit is that these air filters do not need to be changed, but you do need to clean them every 2-3 months. These filters trap very small particles and are commonly used in hospitals or other healthcare-related buildings.
Electronic air filters are ideal for households that require pristine air quality or for people who have sensitivities to air particles.
Summing Up Air Filters
Now that you know about the types of air filters for your HVAC system, be sure to follow a regular maintenance schedule to change or clean them regularly. This will extend the life of your furnace, improve the air you breathe every day, and decrease costs associated with your utilities.
Maintaining your HVAC system will reduce debris build up on fan blades, which lead to them becoming off balance and causing damage to the blower and in ducts, necessitating a professional cleaning or repair.
At Galmiche & Sons in St. Louis, we are here to help you maintain a healthy and safe environment in your home. To schedule an appointment in the St. Louis area, contact our heating & air conditioning professionals at 314-993-1110 or through our online form!
