Your HVAC system uses air filters to keep the indoor air clean, but air filters also affect efficiency. Running the heating or air conditioning through a dirty or clogged filter makes the system work harder to keep your home at the right temperature. The extra force needed to push the air through the filter can also reduce the lifetime of your heating and cooling system. Knowing the basics of air filters will help you save money on utility costs, avoid air conditioning repairs and premature replacement of your air conditioner, furnace and ductwork.
The Role of Air Filters in HVAC Failures
The majority of our service calls for HVAC failures in heating and cooling systems are related to dirty and clogged air filters. We also find that the homeowners and their families suffer from frequent allergies and respiratory infections because the air inside the home is not being filtered properly by the filters. Homes require more frequent cleaning, including the furniture, carpets, walls and ductwork.
Environmental Benefits of Air Filters
Changing the filters in your HVAC system reduces your carbon footprint and energy consumption by maximizing the efficiency of your heating and cooling system. Changing the filter at least once each year is all that is needed to optimize the system efficiency, and this translates into a 10% reduction in your utility costs each year.
Choosing the Right Filter Is Important
Not all HVAC air filters are the same. Even if a filter fits your system, it may not be designed to support the specifications of your HVAC equipment. We can recommend filters for your specific heating and cooling system. With this information, you can visit a local home improvement store to look at the options. Although the easiest way to select an air filter is by considering your budget, you should be aware of other factors that will influence how the filter performs in your home.
MERV Ratings
Air filters have a specification known as a MERV rating. MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Rating Value and represents the size of the particles that are trapped by the air filter. We recommend filters with a MERV rating of 11 or higher for homeowners who are wanting the highest level of indoor air quality to combat allergies and other respiratory problems. If you have children or elderly family members in your home, this rating is the best for keeping the air inside your home safe. If you have pets, you should use an air filter with a MERV rating of 8 or higher to minimize the pet dander inside your home.
High Efficiency Air Filters
High efficiency air filters eliminate more dust, debris, viruses, bacteria, pet dander and odors from the air than economical options. Not only is the air cleaner to breathe, but you will need to dust less often and your electronics are safe from airborne dust.
As part of our annual maintenance services, And Services changes the air filters in your HVAC system with the highest quality filter for your specific heating and cooling system. We will show you how to change the filter during our service call. If you would like to know more about your air filter options for your HVAC equipment, contact us, and we will happily answer your questions or send a technician to your house for a comprehensive evaluation of your heating and cooling system
