Air Filter Maintenance

Posted June 11, 2019 by Victor Michael Rodriguez

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HVAC Air Filters

Your HVAC system works by circulating air throughout your home. Air filters are a vital part of keeping the circulated air in your home clean. HVAC filters extend the life of your heating and cooling system by keeping dust and debris from accumulating inside your system.

Change Your HVAC Filter Regularly

Heating and cooling air filters have improved over the years and continue to improve how effective they are at filtering your homes indoor air. As effective as they are, they still need to be replaced on a regular basis. Overly clogged filters will circulate less air causing your heating and cooling system to be less efficient. Less efficient HVAC systems will lead to higher energy costs. A clogged filter will also fail to keep dirt and debris from accumulating inside your system. A build-up of dirt and debris will lead to a less efficient HVAC system and can cause a complete breakdown which will result in high repair costs.

It is important to replace your heating and cooling air filter regularly. Follow the recommendations outlined by the filter manufacturer or the recommendations given by your HVAC professional.

Which Air Filter is Best?

There are numerous types and brands of filters to choose from. Which HVAC filter is best for you? There are a few factors to consider answering that question. First, get the fitting right. It doesn’t matter how great the filter is, it will do you no good if it does not fit your system. The filters size is listed on the filter itself and can be found in the air return (large grill usually on the ceiling) or attached directly to the unit (found in the attic, basement or closet). Next, determine your air filtration needs. This factor is especially important for allergy sufferers. HVAC filters are rated by their ability to filter particulates (dust, particles, pet dander, pollen, etc.). Air filters are given a MERV rating from 1-20 based on how effectively they filter out particulates, the higher the number the more effective the filter will be. The more effective your air filter is the cleaner your indoor air will be and the more efficient your heating and cooling system will run. MERV ratings 17-20 are reserved for HEPA filters and filter 99.97% to 99.99% of particulates. Lastly, determine what your budget is. Depending on the filter you choose it will need to be replaced anywhere from once-a-month to once-a-year. HVAC air filters can cost as little as $5 to well over $60 per filter with the higher rated filters priced on the high end of the pricing scale.

HVAC Filter Maintenance

Regular replacement of your air filter will help you keep breathing more easily and extend the life your heating and cooling system. It is an important aspect of your HVAC upkeep and is included in our Annual Service Agreement. Contact Quality HVAC and Refrigeration to learn more about our Annual Service Agreement;  get professional help with choosing the best air filter or air filtration system for your home.