Do you know if you are using the best air filter for your home’s heating/cooling system? Most people don’t really understand the differences between the cheap air filters and the higher quality ones. The main purpose for a filter is to protect your HVAC equipment, while improving the indoor air quality in your home. The type of air filter you are using makes a big difference in the air quality you and your family continually breathe in every day, as well as how efficient your unit is working
Are you using those cheap blue air filters?
If you are using the less expensive blue fiberglass filters, chances are more dirt and dust is going into your system. Over time the duct and dust will either stay somewhere in your system or circulate right back into your home. Not only is it unhealthy, but can increase your maintenance bills and cause costly repair bills.
What is the best air filter I should be using?
The best air filter you should be using is one that offers the highest level of efficiency without damaging your HVAC system. Just because you are using the most efficient filter out there, does not necessarily mean it is the right one for your home. The age of your HVAC system also needs to be considered when purchasing a filter with a MERV rating.
What are MERV ratings?
MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Rating Value. A MERV rating is a numerical value ranging from 1 (lowest efficiency) to 16 (highest efficiency). The number tells you how well the filter captures and holds dust and dirt of a specified sized range. If you have an older HVAC system, you should probably not be using a filter higher than a MERV 11. Most of the older systems should use a filter with a MERV rating of only 8 or lower. Always make sure to choose a filter rating that corresponds to the requirement of your HVAC system.
What are microns?
Airborne particles are described as microns. Particles that range from 0.3 to 0.9 microns present the most health concerns. This is because they are so small that they get past the tiny hairs in our breathing passages and are too large to be exhaled. Examples include dust, pollen, pet dander, dust mites, bacteria, and mold spores.
| 0.1 to 0.3 micron | Dust mites and allergens |
| 0.3 to 1 micron | Tobacco smoke, metallic fumes and bacteria such as staphylococcus |
| 1 to 5 microns | Bacteria and small dust particles |
| 5 to 10 microns | Mold, pollen, medium dust particles |
| 10 microns + | Large dust particles |
If you have decided that you may be using the wrong air filter for your home’s HVAC system, simply visit www.filtersfast.com to find the right filter!
Check out these related blogs!
What Happens If I Don’t Change My Air Filter?
The Differences Between MERV Ratings-MERV 11 Recommended
How To Change Your In-Home Furnace Air Filter?
Feel free to let us know if you have any questions. We’ll be more than happy to assist you!
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