When choosing an air filter, you want to ensure that you have made the right decision. But this search is not always as easy as most people might imagine. Getting the right air filter requires you to pay attention to a host of factors. Keep reading to learn more.
#1: Type of filter
The market has various filters, each of which has different capabilities. Therefore, you need to understand the type that you need. That is determined by your specific requirements and understanding of what a specific filter can do.
For instance, the MERV 13 filter is more effective at capturing particles than MERV 8, typically pre-installed in HVAC systems. It can trap 0.3-1.0 micron particles, which includes most viruses. Users should consult an HVAC professional or their HVAC manual when making filter changes to the existing HVAC system.
#2: Filter size
When you settle on the specific type of filter you want, you still need to drill down a bit more and choose the required size. Each filter comes in different sizes. For example, you can have a size like 20x20x1 air filter MERV 13. Whatever size you choose depends on where you intend to install it.
Keenly evaluate your system model and size to get a filter that fits. Getting a filter that only partially covers your system would be pointless. Secondly, you may want to remain cautious not to lose money purchasing the wrong size filter.
When shopping for your filter, you can immediately know the size from the description. Also, the filters may deliver printed with size on the side. Simply countercheck by measuring the height, width, and depth just to be sure.
#3: Quality of home air
What is the quality of your home air? Answering this question can guide you in selecting the appropriate filter. The default MERV 8 rating filter may be okay for homes with good air quality, provided you are not concerned about viruses and particles.
However, if your home air quality is poor, you will need to get a higher-end filter that effectively cleans up things. Some factors that may cause poor indoor air quality include pets, poor ventilation, unfavorable outdoor environment, smoking, and tight insulation.
The 20x20x1 air filter can help improve home air quality without taking a toll on your energy bills. It helps when the outdoor environment is unfavorable or you have poor ventilation in your living spaces. The filter ensures clean air seeps into your home.
#4: Performance of your filter
Different filters perform differently depending on the model that you will have chosen. Since you have settled on the type of filter needed, you need to look at other factors like the filter rating, efficiency, and particulates it can remove.
Filters include ratings like MERV and CADR. The ratings help you understand the quality of how the filter shall perform. The MERV rating is assigned by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers. A higher MERV rating means the filter can remove more particulates more efficiently.
