You know that the A/C is important to your indoor air quality but know little else about it.
One of the larger components you may see on the outside of your residential HVAC unit is a filter that needs to be replaced from time to time. These filters are essential for the airflow in keeping your indoor air quality high.
But, many people have a hard time understanding how the filters work, or how to choose the best HVAC system filter for their needs. The systems are rather complex, but here’s everything you need to know about filters.
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Find the Filter Size that Fits Your AC
If your AC filter is too small, it won’t be able to catch all the dirt, dust, and other airborne particles that can clog up your system and reduce its efficiency. A clogged AC filter can also cause your AC to work harder, which can lead to higher energy bills. A too-small AC filter can also cause your indoor air quality to suffer.
If your AC filter is too large, it can restrict airflow and make your AC less efficient. A filter that’s too big can also make your AC work harder, which can lead to higher energy bills and shorten the lifespan of your AC unit.
It’s important to find an AC filter that’s the right size for your AC unit. The size of your AC unit’s filter is typically listed in the owner’s manual.
Consider HEPA Filters
When looking to buy filters, one should consider HEPA filters. HEPA filters can remove 99.97% of particles that are 0.3 microns or larger. This is incredibly important as these particles are often the ones that carry the most contaminants and can cause the most damage to one’s health.
Additionally, HEPA filters do not produce ozone, a harmful gas that can be produced by some filters. Overall, HEPA filters are a great option for those looking for a filter that will remove a high percentage of particles from the air.
Understand What MERV Filters Are
MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values, and it is a measure of how well a filter can remove contaminants from the air. The higher the MERV rating, the more effective the filter will be at removing contaminants. There is a wide range of MERV ratings, from 1 to 16, and the type of filter you need will depend on the specific needs of your home.
If you have a family member with allergies, for example, you will need a higher MERV rating to remove the allergens from the air. Understanding MERV filters will help you choose the right filter for your home and ensure that you are breathing clean, healthy air. If you need quality filters that fit into this factor, then have a look at this filter.
Educate Yourself When Buying an HVAC System Filter
As a smart homeowner who is unsure about what type of HVAC system filter to buy for your home, be sure to educate yourself on the different types and what will work best for your needs. There are pleated, media, electrostatic, and HEPA filters, and each has its advantages. Once you know what will work best for your home, be sure to buy a quality filter to ensure your family’s health and comfort.
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