Every HVAC system needs a good filter to maintain quality indoor air. When it’s time to replace the filter, you might consider upgrading to a higher quality filter. But how do you choose a filter? Here are a few criteria to keep in mind.
Indoor Air Pollutants
Indoor air is typically more polluted than outdoor air. Smoke from tobacco, burning wood, and cooking; dust mites, mold, pet dander, and gasses from cleaning products and building materials have a negative impact on indoor air quality and require filtration.
Size of the filter
HVAC filters are made in a range of shapes and sizes to meet each home’s air filtration needs. Before making a purchase, you’ll need to measure the length, width, and depth of your current filter. The filter is located between the return air duct and the furnace assembly. You may need to open or remove a metal door to access the filter. Sometimes, the filter slots are located next to the return air vents.
Or, you could take the filter with you to a home improvement store as you search for a new one.
MERV rating
MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values and rates the filter’s ability to capture large particles, such as dust, pollen, and pet dander. The higher the rating, the more particles can be removed by the filter.
Types of HVAC Filters
Once you know the size and quality of filter you need, consider the different types of filters. Fiberglass filters are the most common type of HVAC air filter and are made of woven fiberglass filters and metal grating. They’re the most affordable and suitable for most homes.
Compared to fiberglass filters, pleated filters have a tighter weave, stronger airflow resistance, and superior filtering capabilities.
HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters have the highest MERV ratings and strongest particulate stopping power of all HVAC filters. They can remove at least 99.97% of dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and other airborne particles with a size of 0.3 microns.
If you’d like top quality indoor air, then HEPA filters are the best choice.
Tucker Hill is happy to answer any questions you may have about choosing a filter. Give us a call for brand recommendations and additional tips.