When it comes to keeping your HVAC system running smoothly and efficiently, air filters are an essential component. Cheap fiberglass filters are designed to prevent dust, dirt, and hair from accumulating in the system, but they do little to filter out allergens and other irritants. On the other hand, high MERV filters are great for filtering debris and cleaning the air in your home, but they can reduce air pressure in your duct system and increase energy bills. So, what is the best option for you?When trying to determine which air filter is best for you, it is first recommended to follow the recommendations suggested by the manufacturer.
They will most likely provide you with ideal ratings for your system, which are often based on the size of your home and the size of the unit compared. It's not about finding one with the best price, it's about finding the right one for your unit. Using the right air filter will increase the longevity and performance of your HVAC system. MPR stands for Microparticle Performance Rating and is a system for determining how small particles can be filtered with a particular air filter. Hospitals use filters with a rating of 16, but that's not necessary for your home environment, and using a filter with such a high rating will increase your energy costs.
Look at the label and note the manufacturer's recommendations for how often you should replace the filter. When comparing the cost of a pleated filter with a non-pleated filter, you have to triple the price per filter of the non-pleated filter to get an accurate comparison. If all dimensions are the same, a filter with a higher MERV rating and more folds per inch will have the same or better airflow than the same filter with a lower MERV rating and fewer folds. Clogging increases the pressure difference between the inlet and outlet sides, and this can cause the filter pleats to flatten or the filter frame to bend. An oft-cited comprehensive independent test of the effects of MERV filters 8 to 13 on HVAC airflow and energy consumption concluded that even “if no adjustments are made for the increased pressure drop of high MERV filters, airflow and energy penalties are unlikely to be severe at least, not until the filter is loaded with dirt.” Try different MERV ratings when you change your filters and look for a noticeable change in performance. Not only do filters allow people to breathe easier, but they can also reduce odors and make your home a more pleasant place to live. Adding years to your unit and avoiding costly repairs is a much better option than trying to reduce costs on an air filter.
We have the best options for portable air conditioners if a window unit or central air doesn't work for you. In conclusion, cheap air filters may be tempting but they don't always provide optimal performance or longevity. It's important to follow manufacturer recommendations when selecting an air filter for your HVAC system. The right filter will help reduce irritants and allergens in the air, but it's also important to keep other components of your system clean as well.