Air Filter Tips: A Guide To Choosing & Maintaining It
Regularly cleaning and changing air filters extend HVAC system life, reduce costs, and maintain healthy air quality by filtering allergens.
Homeowners constantly look for ways to maintain a comfortable living space without increasing utility bills. One way to make a home more airy and livable while saving on costs is to turn attention to the air filter. Here are some tips and tricks to optimize the air filter.
Why Clean Air Filters Are Essential
Despite being a central part of the heating and air system, an air filter is often underappreciated or ignored. The entire purpose of an air filter is to filter out dust and pollen that can circulate in a home and, in turn, reduce indoor air quality.
Moreover, air filters serve as the first line of defense against larger objects, such as loose insulation, that can be pulled into them, causing fires or damaging the heating and air system.
However, failing to change the air filter regularly can cause numerous problems. In fact, clogged air is the leading cause of heating and air conditioning system failures.
Some benefits of keeping an air filter in top condition include:
Extending the life of the heating and air conditioning system. These systems often break down due to dirty air filters, and cleaning and changing them can prolong the unit's life.
A clean air filter means the heating and air conditioning unit won't have to work as hard to keep the air clean, which lowers costs.
A clean air filter maintains healthy air quality, keeping away allergens such as dust and pollen to maintain health.
How to Choose the Best Air Filter
Choosing the right air filter is the best way to optimize its use. Many factors come into play, and keeping them in mind can help homeowners choose the best one.
MERV
MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. It is given to filters based on their efficiency. Since each MERV rating has different characteristics, the ideal one should be chosen based on specific needs.
MERV 1-4
Provides minimal filtration. Suitable for keeping dust away from equipment but does little to improve indoor air quality.
MERV 5-8
Ideal for most homes. Captures small particles responsible for aggravating allergies without restricting airflow.
MERV 9-12
Highly efficient and helps improve breathing. Great for those with severe allergies or multiple pets.
MERV 13-16
Used in places like smoking lounges, hospitals, and commercial areas due to high efficiency.
Resistance
The resistance, also known as the pressure drop, is the filter's impact on the system's airflow. Choosing a filter with a lower pressure drop is advised as it has less resistance, increases airflow, and helps the unit operate more efficiently.
Dust-Holding Capacity
This capacity is closely linked to pressure drop and indicates the amount of dust a filter can hold at a specific pressure drop point. Comparing the dust-holding capacities of different air filters by looking at products with identical pressure drop ratings is useful. However, the pressure drop performance will decrease as dust accumulates in the filter. Change or clean the filter every 1 to 2 months to ensure optimal performance.
Dust-Spot Efficiency
Dust-spot efficiency measures how well the filter removes large dust particles from the air in controlled test conditions. The higher the dust-spot efficiency, the better the air quality.
Filter Efficiency
Filter efficiency is rated as initial efficiency when it is new or sustained efficiency, which tells the average effectiveness a filter can maintain over its lifespan. Both aspects should be considered before choosing an air filter.
Air Filter Tips: How to Remember to Clean It
Remembering to clean the air filter regularly can be challenging. Here are some tips to aid memory.
Write the last cleaning date on the filter.
Use a calendar to note the approximate date of the following cleaning.
Set up reminders on a phone.
When is it Time to Change the Air Filter?
Different MERV ratings demand different cleaning and changing frequencies. Here are the general guidelines:
Every 3 to 6 months in vacation homes or homes with one occupant without allergies or pets.
Every 90 days in an average suburban home with no pets.
Every 60 days, if there is a pet, specifically one cat or dog.
Every 30 to 45 days, if two or more pets live in the house or someone has allergies or respiratory issues.
Other factors influencing the changing frequency include higher air pollution levels or nearby construction. When in doubt, make it a habit to check the filter monthly and change it when it appears dirty. While an air filter is a small part that is often ignored, it is crucial to follow the above tips, ensure the best air filter is used, and know when it's time to clean it. Doing so will keep the heating and air system in top condition and guarantee good air quality.
Above and Beyond Air Conditioning & Heating is a San Antonio residential and commercial heating and air conditioning company dedicated to providing the highest level of home comfort. Call us today at 210-897-8658.
