In many air conditioning systems, the air filter has two distinct roles. The first is to protect the system from dust and other particles that can cause components to wear and tear and reduce system efficiency. The second is to remove dust, pollen, pet dander, and other pollutants from the air, which can help reduce symptoms of conditions such as asthma and allergies. As you can imagine, the air filter collects all kinds of dust, spores, hair, dandruff, and other particles that are pumped through the air conditioning system. Changing your home air filter ensures that your home has cleaner, healthier, and fresher air. No, HVAC air filters differ in quality and dimensions, and some have features that others don't.
In most cases, it's best to use the filter that the manufacturer of the air conditioning system recommends connecting to the system. If you have a higher-efficiency filter and you don't change it often enough, moisture buildup can cause mold to build up in ducts and lead to serious mold infestations. For the best indoor air quality, you should choose an air filter with a MERV rating of at least eight to 10. If you're replacing an old or disposable filter, you should also consider buying a HEPA filter to trap contaminants. Reusable filters should be cleaned according to the manufacturer's instructions. But when it comes time to replace it, does the type of filter you choose really make a difference? Aren't all filters basically the same? The MERV rating reflects the filter's ability to remove particulate matter from the air, and can range from 1 to 20. A higher rating means better performance. Scheduling a maintenance visit by a professional HVAC company can ensure that all of your home's filters only help your HVAC systems work efficiently and don't harm your home's indoor air quality.
While you might be tempted to use a HEPA filter, you should know that it's like putting a MERV 16 filter in your air conditioning unit. The only type of filters that trap allergens and spores are HEPA, or high-energy particulate air filters. All filters with a MERV rating of 5 should detect most everyday nuisances such as pollen, pet dander, and dust.
