When it comes to maintaining a comfortable and healthy home, one of the most important things to consider is the air filter in your HVAC system. While many homeowners opt for high-end models due to their potential savings, there is also less maintenance involved. It's important to check the filter packaging to see how often the manufacturer recommends replacing it with a new one. When it comes to air filter cost, there are several factors that come into play.
The size of the filter you need depends on your HVAC system, and not all cardboard frames are created equal. All of them (and Owen) told us that MERV filters in this range restrict airflow more than low-MERV filters, as measured by the drop in air pressure that filters create when installed. Air filter manufacturers offer recommendations on how often an air filter should be replaced. But those are rare circumstances, and the decision to pay more for a better filter or not mostly comes down to whether cleaner air is a priority for you.
If the filter is not changed, particles cover the filter and not as much air passes through. Filters become dirty over time and layers of dirt and debris soon cover the holes between the woven air filter mesh. That makes it difficult to understand what you should and could expect to pay for filters in your own home. Filters with a Minimum Efficiency Report Value (MERV) rating of 5 to 8 are recommended for domestic use and remove 50 to 85% of particulate matter, including pollen, dust, pet dander, and mold spores.
It is possible to use a shallower filter in a return vent that can accommodate a deeper one; however, keep in mind that you may need to change that air filter more often, which negates some of the cost savings. If you want to learn more about HVAC filters or want to talk to someone about your HVAC needs, contact a representative today.
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