A Basic Guide to Shopping for HVAC Filters
There are several different kinds of filters that may be compatible with your HVAC system. The choices can confuse some homeowners, and your residential A/C contractor can help you understand which filter is right for your home. The right filter choice is based on two factors: your indoor air quality needs and your HVAC system.
Many homeowners are familiar with the economical fiberglass floss air filter, which promotes high airflow, but has a very low particle capture rate and does little to improve indoor air quality. For better filtration, consider pleated air filters. These are sometimes electrostatically charged to actively attract certain particles. Different ratings, including the industry-standard minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) and the 3M-specific Microparticle Performance Rating, indicate how efficient an air filter is at capturing airborne pollutants.
If you or someone in your family suffers from severe allergies, you’ll want to consider an air filter appropriately rated to capture specific allergens. Another consideration, however, is the age and power of your current HVAC system. High-efficiency filters can actually impede airflow in older or low-powered systems. This adversely affects the system’s efficiency and can even shorten the life of your furnace or air conditioner.
With the help of your air conditioning service, you can find the right kind of filter to meet your indoor air quality needs while improving the efficiency of your HVAC system and protecting its internal components. You might consider having your contractor install an air filtration or air cleaning system that works in conjunction with your HVAC equipment. This will efficiently remove harmful pollutants from your home’s air.
Estes Heating & Air Conditioning of Atlanta can help you find the right HVAC filter for your system and your indoor air quality needs. We also have several quality air filtration systems that can improve your quality of life at home by providing cleaner air. To learn more, visit our website or call us at (678) 733-9791 for more information.
