Technology

How to Choose the Best Air Filter: Important Things To Consider

Antonio

June 18, 2024
4 min read

How to Choose the Best Air Filter: Important Things To Consider

Though it might not be your priority, selecting the proper residential HVAC filters for your heating and cooling system can have a big impact on the energy efficiency, air quality, and even the health of your house. It might be confusing to choose between the many kinds of air filters that are on the market, each of which offers a different degree of protection against airborne particles.

We’ll cover all the fundamentals of air filters in this article and take important considerations into account when selecting the one that will work best for you. Let’s be clear about how to choose the ideal filter for your area.

Why are Air Filters Important?

Maintaining good interior air quality and the longevity of your HVAC system are the two main reasons why air filters are essential. It is crucial to stop the accumulation of hazardous airborne particles since air circulates within your HVAC system instead of being refilled from the outside air. Your HVAC system’s air filters are also your first line of defense against dangerous dust and dirt accumulation. Improper air filtering can harm motors, blowers, coils, and air compressors.

Important Things To Consider When Buying Air Filters –

Sizing Matters: Air filters are divided into nominal and real HVAC filter sizes. The actual size of the filter is its precise dimensions; the nominal size is an estimate rounded to the closest inch. Air filters differ in thickness, length, and width. Ensure your HVAC system is compatible with thicker filters; not all of them can. One benefit of thicker filters with larger pleats like 10x15x1, and 8x16x1 is that they often require fewer replacements.

Maintenance and Replacement: Maintaining good indoor air quality and HVAC efficiency requires routine maintenance and timely air filter replacement. Depending on usage and climatic conditions, replacing HVAC filters four to six times a year is advised. This technique adds to the longevity and optimal operation of your HVAC system.

Air Change per Hour: The Air Change Hour (ACH) represents the number of times the air purifier can clean a room’s whole volume of air in an hour. It should be noted that equipment that removes microscopic allergens that can be damaging to health is successful at doing so at rates higher than 4 ACH. Among the other features to search for is an energy star rating, which guarantees the appliance’s high level of energy efficiency.

Noise Rating: Installing an HVAC air filter in the bedroom, where we spend most of our time, is advised. However, to ensure that the machine doesn’t interfere with your sleep, ensure its noise level is less than 50 dB. Before the air can proceed to additional filters, it must first pass through a pre-filter that collects and eliminates big particles, pet dander, and hair. Select a pre-filter that is washable, less noise-producing, and reusable frequently.

Home Occupants: You will require a filter that can manage a lot of pet fur if you have several pets. An HVAC filter’s efficiency is measured using a standard value called the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, or MERV. Homes should strive for MERV 8 to MERV 13 according to the Custom Filter Direct experts, which advises sticking to MERV 8 or higher.

Frequently Inspect and Change Air Filters: How often do you remember to replace the dirty air filter? Make sure to check frequently. Inspection intervals vary depending on the Furnace Filters. Observe the recommendations on your air filter, keeping in mind that the frequency of your air filter evaluation will depend on your lifestyle.

Conclusion

These are the six things you should know about selecting air filters, along with a new air filter that will enhance your quality of life. Now that you are prepared to maximize the performance of your heating and cooling systems, we at Custom Filters Direct, hope you have appreciated understanding this crucial information. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any additional questions you may have about heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. HVAC installations, maintenance, and design are our areas of expertise.