Identifying which type of AC air filter is right for your home will help your HVAC work its best all year long. When you change your filter regularly, you can prevent dust, pet dander, pollen, and other air contaminants from circulating in the air you and your family members breathe. However, with so many types of filters from which to choose, it can be challenging to know which one to purchase. Here’s how to decide which filter is ideal for your air conditioning system.
Check Guidelines from Your HVAC Manufacturer
Your HVAC came with a set of manufacturer’s instructions that explain how to care for and maintain the system. It will offer crucial details about the filter type and measurements your specific HVAC requires. When shopping for a filter, keep the filter guidelines handy to ensure you choose one that will be the perfect fit for optimal system efficiency and safety.
Look at a Filter’s MERV Rating
What is a MERV rating? It stands for “Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value,” and the rating is on a scale of one to 20. It essentially rates a filter’s efficiency. The higher the MERV rating, the more particles and contaminants the filter will stop from contaminating your home’s air. For example:
- Rating between one and four means the filter will stop between 60% and 80% of particles in the air.
- Rating between five and eight means the filter will stop between 80% and 95% of particles in the air.
One thing to consider: If the MERV rating is too high, it can make it more difficult for the HVAC to pull the air through the filter, which decreases overall system efficiency. Choosing the right rating balance for your system makes all the difference. Most homeowners find filters with a rating of seven or eight are ideal for their purposes. Not sure which AC air filter is best for your home? Reach out to the trusted team of AC experts at G+S Energy Services today.
