Sometimes it can feel like you’re on your own when selecting the best air filter for your home air conditioning system. You may feel like changing the system is relatively easy, but are wondering if you’re actually picking this best possible choice.
The process is simple but sometimes there is much controversy about what the best air filter is and why. This is compounded by the number of air filter types available.
Below is a guide to help you sort through them and give you the knowledge to know what you’re filtering and why.
Things to Consider Before Buying
You will need to figure out what your priority is. Many people simply want to make sure that they’re using a product that is very energy efficient.
Others want to be positive that the product has certain components in them that reduce volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Health concerns could also be at the top of your list as you may be more susceptible to allergies in certain seasons. For this, you will definitely want to be sure the type you choose to put in your air conditioning system collects as many spores of mold and pollen as possible.
What are you filtering?
Some of the most common compounds that the filter collects can be found below.
Mold, Dust, and Pollen
These are all substances that are very small and can easily slip past a subpar air filter. Some of these cause mild allergies and others are extremely dangerous to your health. The filter will list specifically the contaminants that they are able to collect.
Make sure to get one that lists out all the compounds you want to be safe from.
Bacteria and Viruses
These can only be stopped or collected by a high-grade air filter in your air conditioning system. These may be more costly but if you are prone to being sick or have a lower immune system you may want to make sure you invest in these higher-grade products.
Types of Filters
HEPA
This filter usually has a stamp on it that says HEPA so it can be easily picked out. These are typically more expensive but are higher grades that will catch bacteria and viruses.
However, your HVAC fan or blower may not be able to push enough air through this dense filter. You may have to have an HVAC specialist modify your system to increase airpower.
Media Filters
The media filters are usually a mix between high and low grade. They don’t have as much negative impact on the static pressure of your air system, which is a good thing.
This sort actually goes in between your furnace and your plenum, which means you may have to have a specialist put it in for you. It also only needs to be replaced about once every year.
Fiberglass Filters
Typically this filter is the one people are most familiar with. The types of contaminants they are able to catch are usually listed on the packaging.
They can be effective, however, they do not catch nearly as many contaminants as other types of filter. They also may still be too dense for your HVAC system to work properly.
Any filter can be obtained with filters by mail sources. Filters by mail will be longer than simply going to the store in person, but filters by mail can provide a surety that the type of filter you are looking for will be available. Go here to find out how you can have your filters delivered to your home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Condition Filters
The following are some of the most commonly sought pieces of information about HVAC filters. Contact an HVAC repair person near you if you’re experiencing issues with your HVAC system.
How often should I change my filter?
There are online guides that attempt to tell you the perfect amount of time that you should allow to elapse between filter changes. The truth is that you should change your filter when it’s too dirty to function. Some of the factors that could make this more frequent are children, pets, whether or not people smoke in your house, and the age of your HVAC system. You can establish a timeline by frequently checking your filter and replacing it as necessary.
What are the pros and cons of reusable filters?
Most people who choose to use a reusable filter are trying to eliminate waste, which a reusable filter can help you accomplish. On the other hand, you do need to keep up with the maintenance of a reusable filter, which means taking it out regularly and washing it with a hose or in the sink. During this time, your air conditioning should be shut off or particles can get into your ducts.
What are the benefits of an air conditioner filter delivery service?
An air filter delivery service delivers the size air filter that you need when you need it. You are billed for your subscription and you receive a filter at your home when your filter is due to be changed. It’s possibly the most convenient option for air filter maintenance.
Can a dirty filter increase my power bill?
The purpose of the filter is to catch particulates as air passes through it, cleansing the air. The dirtier your filter is, the harder your HVAC system has to work to pass the same volume of air through that filter. That means your AC has to run longer to bring the temperature to the optimal level, requiring more electricity.
Do I need a professional to change my air filter?
Most home units are designed with the end-user in mind. While you may need a professional to come in and perform annual maintenance, you could probably handle changing the filter by yourself with little effort. If you’re unsure about how to change your filter and you need a professional to come to change it, ask them to show you how so you don’t accrue a rather costly routine bill.
FAQ:
Q: Which is the best air filter for your home?
A: Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad. Tap Notifications. At the top of the page,select Scheduled Summary. Tap the toggle to the On position. Tap the Continue button at the bottom. Follow the on-screen steps to select which apps are included in your Summary. Set a schedule for when the Notification Summary will appear in Notification Center. …
Q: What is the best air filter?
A: Best Overall: Honeywell 20 x 25-Inches MERV-11 Furnace Filter. “This device has an air filter between the 5-12 MERV rating, which is the best for overall effectiveness to use.”. Best for Health: AIRx HEALTH 20 x 25 x 1 MERV 13 Pleated Furnace Filter.
Q: How to choose an air filter?
A: To ensure you’re purchasing the correct-size filters,remove the old air filter from the furnace and check its dimensions,which are indicated by thickness,width and length. When buying new air filters,disregard any that you can easily see through. Pleated filters have larger surface areas to trap more dirt.
Q: What does a home air filter do?
A: Allergens. Allergens are substances that can create adverse immune responses in the form of allergies or asthma. Bacteria and Viruses. Bacteria are microbes and viruses are submicroscopic infectious agents that can cause a number of infections,diseases,and illnesses. Dust. … Mold Spores. … Odors. … Pet Dander. … Smoke. … Volatile Organic Compounds. …