Did you know that the air filter on your HVAC system plays a huge role in both indoor air quality and how effective your unit is at cooling your home? It’s true. Selecting the right air filter can have a positive impact on your home while choosing the wrong air filter can have negative repercussions for years to come.
If you ever need help with air filters in Federal Way, WA, you can give our team a call and we can talk to you about your options and offer a recommendation. You can also keep reading to learn more about the different types of air filters, air filter efficiency ratings, and what type of filter you want for your home.
Assess the MERV Rating
Air filters come with a MERV efficiency rating that estimates what types of particles get filtered out of the air. MERV stands for minimum efficiency reporting value. The scale goes from one 1 to 20. A filter with a rating of 1 does not remove much from your air. The lower ratings from about 1-7 are designed to capture larger particles in the air. Think hair, pet fur, and larger dirt particles.
The next step up is a range of about 8 to 13. These are the filters you want to look at for your residential HVAC system. You can read the labels on different filters to see what types of particles they filter out of the air based on the rating. An air filter with a rating of 13 helps to remove particles as small as viruses and bacteria from the air. This air filter range strikes an excellent balance between improving your indoor air quality and maximizing airflow through the system.
MERV ratings of 14 through 20 are meant for commercial systems that have more power. The fibers of these filters are woven so tightly that they have the potential to block airflow from coming into your HVAC system. Without adequate airflow, your HVAC system will not have enough air to cool down or heat up and blow out into your home. This can also add strain to the system, causing your energy costs to increase.
Filter Sizing
You also want to be sure that you choose a filter that fits your HVAC system precisely. We know that some air filter sizes can be difficult to find. We encourage you to take the extra time to order an appropriate filter online if necessary.
Having a filter that is incorrectly sized by even an inch or two defeats the purpose of having an air filter in place. The gaps left by an air filter that is too small will allow all of those harmful particles in your air to filter through and into your home.
Filter Care
Once you have a great air filter in place, be sure to change it out on time. Check the instructions on your air filter so you know how often to replace it. Most air filters will last for anywhere from 1-3 months, depending on the air quality of your home.
Having pets and children makes it more likely that you need to change out your air filter a little sooner. It’s a good idea to buy multiple filters at the same time so you always have a backup ready to go. Set reminders on your phone or mark the date on your calendar so you know when to change out the filter for a new one.
Contact Sound Heating and Air Conditioning Inc. today to schedule an appointment for HVAC service! We take your comfort as seriously as you do.