What You Need to Know About HVAC Filters Is Here

Your furnace is much more efficient when the filter is regularly changed. Clean filters improve the operation. Anyone taking care of a furnace through the winter months is aware of this fact. But, the situation gets complicated once you realize that there are different types of HVAC filters on the market.

Consumers have the following choices: the regular 1″ fiberglass filter, the media filter, the electronic filter, and the HEPA filter. Each type has its pros and cons, including different MERV ratings which measure how efficient a filter is at capturing and retaining dust, debris, and other particles. Read on to determine which HVAC filter type to use in your furnace over the coming winter.

The One-Inch Fiberglass Furnace Filter

When most people think of HVAC filters, this is the one they picture. It’s the most inexpensive choice on the market, which is probably why it is the most frequently used. With a relatively low MERV rating, homeowners must be prepared to swap this furnace filter out on a regular basis, since it is only effective for a short period of time. Other similar options include thicker filters up to five inches and/or pleated fiberglass filters.

The Media Furnace Filter

When you mean business when it comes to filtering your air, an extended media furnace filter might be just the ticket. These filters are boxy and require professional installation. However, because the entire filter is made up of different media that capture a wide variety of dust, allergens, smoke, etc., your home air will be very clean. These filters are typically more expensive but require replacement once a year.

The Electronic Furnace Filter

Electronic furnace filters come with the distinct advantage of never needing to be replaced. Instead, these HVAC filter can be cleaned and reinstalled. They are installed within the furnace duct work and capture particles passing through by zapping them with an electrostatic charge, causing the particles to pick up a charge. Then, those charged particles are grabbed from the air in a magnet-like process and collected on the filters.

The HEPA Furnace Filter

HEPA filters are often substituted in place of the more commonly used fiberglass filters. They have a much denser weave which makes them more effective at removing the smaller particles which act as allergens. While this makes good sense from a health point of view, the denser material does tend to restrict air flow, which means that the HEPA filters may reduce the efficiency of the furnace. Most experts recommend that home owners contact a professional HVAC company to see if HEPA filters will work in their furnace system.

The choice of filters depends upon how clean you need your air to be and which type works best when it comes to furnace efficiency. A consultation with an HVAC company during an annual HVAC checkup can help you determine which filter is right for your home. Keep in mind that furnace filters are designed for two purposes: To keep your furnace operating efficiently and to keep your home air clean.