4 Factors To Consider When Choosing AC Filters
April 12, 2023
When you want to protect the comfort of your house, you need to be sure you have the correct AC filter. An appropriate AC filter can ensure the air quality inside is good and AC filters affect how well your air conditioner works and lasts.
But because there are so many choices on the market, it can be hard to determine which filter is appropriate for your home. This post will discuss four important things to consider when you choose a AC filter.
1. Size and Thickness
Your AC's filter must be the right size so air doesn't get through the edges. Also, the filter must match the filtration requirements you need for your house.
Although a thicker filter will catch smaller particles and filter the air better, it may also impede the circulation of air to move through the AC, causing the AC to work harder. Choose a filter with a thickness between 1" and 5" depending on the size of the particles you want to get rid of and how clean the air is in your home.
2. Type and Material
When you pick a filter, always think about the demands of your home and its people. Each type of filter has a specific use that justifies its design. Depending on the type and material, your filter can catch pollutants, contaminants, and minute particles and still allow for good airflow.
For example, most disposable filters use polyester, cotton, or fiberglass layers held in place by cardboard frames. Even though these filters are easy to find and don't cost much, they might not work as well as other filters. Pleated filters work better and last longer than non-pleated filters because they have a considerably higher surface area and can soak up more contaminants.
Electrostatic filters are another option for people who need more powerful filtration. They catch and hold on to small particles by using static electricity. Carbon filters are good for places with little ventilation that tend to hold onto smells. High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are best for those with allergies or asthma because they are especially good at getting rid of allergens that are too small to see with the naked eye.
3. MERV Rating
The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) measures how well a filter removes dust and other particles from the air. This rating system shows how well a filter can catch small and large airborne particles. Filters with higher MERV ratings work better and get rid of more particles.
Higher ratings mean that a filter can catch more things like pet hair, pollen, mold spores, and smoke. Most residential systems have MERV ratings between 1 and 12, which allows for good air circulation while still filtering out most particles. Homes with pets, smokers, or people with severe allergies should use filters with a MERV rating of 8–12 because they are better at eliminating smelly and harmful particles.
Also, be sure the filter will work with your system. A high MERV rating filter might place more stress on your system, which could be dangerous or damaging to your system.
4. Lifespan
Filters with a short life span need more frequent replacements, which can be expensive and time-consuming. On the other hand, filters that last longer can be cheaper and maintains good indoor air quality for longer.
For example, 4-inch wide filters with pleats have a much larger surface area. Thus, depending on the conditions in your home, they can last for up to a year. This prolonged life could be quite helpful for people who forget to change their filters every month.
Contact us at Service 1 Plumbing, Heating & A/C if you need professional help with air conditioning maintenance such as a filter that needs assessment or replacement. We serve residents located in the Shorewood, IL, area.