Importance of Air Filters
Air filters serve the very important role of removing airborne contaminants from the air flowing through the system. These impurities include things like dust, dirt, mold, pollen, pet dander, fur, hair, bacteria, and other allergens. Aside from health concerns that can arise with these impurities circulating throughout the air in your home, they also can get into your HVAC unit and cause blockages or other problems.
How Air Filters Work
After air is carried into your home through the HVAC system, the filter traps airborne pollutants. Without a clean filter, these particles would circulate in your home, contaminating the air and causing or contributing to potential health problems.
MERV Ratings
Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values, or MERVs, report a filter’s ability to capture larger particles between 0.3 and 10 microns (µm). The MERV rating scale ranges from 1 to 20 and tells you how effective air filters are at eliminating certain kinds of airborne contaminants. In a nutshell, a filter with a higher rating lets fewer dust particles and contaminants through. Any filter with a MERV rating of 16 or higher is categorized as a High Efficiency Particulate Air, or HEPA, filter. These filters provide the highest level of protection from airborne contaminants. It is important to have an HVAC technician recommend the best air filter for your unit for maximum efficiency.
Types of Air Filters
There are numerous different types of air filters each with their own pros and cons. Consulting a professional will be the best way to ensure you are selecting the ideal air filter for your home and system. Some of the more popular types of air filters are: fiberglass filters, pleated filters, electrostatic filters, uv light filters, and HEPA filters.
How Often to Change Air Filters
All air filters require periodic cleaning and filter replacement to function properly. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on maintenance and replacement on the air filter you use for best results. It is also important to do monthly visual checks, as you may notice that at certain times of year you may need to change your filter even more frequently than other times.
Bottom line, air filters help keep your home healthy, protect your HVAC system, and can save you money on your energy bills in the process. Call the professionals at Mason Air Conditioning & Heating at 727-433-9853 or schedule an appointment online and receive your service call completely FREE today.