As an HVAC company, we feel we can not express enough the importance of maintaining and caring for your air filter. When most people think about HVAC, they think about the cooling and heating aspects and forget that the “V” stands for ventilation.
Your air filters are an integral part of that ventilation and will directly affect your indoor air quality. We’ve compiled a list of FAQs to help you become filter expert.
What is an air filter?
The air flowing through your home for the purposes of heating and cooling pass through the air filter in your HVAC system. The objective of the filter is to catch the miniscule particles of dirt, dust, pollen, mold spores, pet dander, bacteria, and other microorganisms that may be present in the air.
Your HVAC system recycles the air throughout your home, but thanks to your air filter, it holds on to the nasty stuff so you aren’t breathing it in.
Why does it need to be changed?
A clogged air filter can wreak havoc on your entire HVAC system. Regularly checking and changing the filter in your system will significantly increase the efficiency and longevity of your HVAC system.
The particles trapped in your filter make it difficult for your system to push air through and makes it work harder, eventually overworking your system. A dirty filter and neglect are a primary reason for system failure– an unfortunate problem that can be easily prevented.
Replacing dirty filters helps your system to run smoothly and will save money and energy since it won’t have to work so hard to move the air throughout your home. Not to mention, the overall quality of the air will be better with a cleaner filter.
What is a MERV rating?
MERV stands for ‘Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value’. This standard rates the effectiveness of the different types of air filters. The MERV rating helps you choose the quality of filtration within your home.
The higher the MERV rating the more effective the filter is at eliminating smaller airborne contaminants we discussed earlier.
Generally, a MERV rating of 8-13 is effective in maintaining a safe and healthy air quality within residential homes. Commercial air filter recommendations may be different depending on the space and industry.
How often does it need to be changed?
Ideally your air filter should be changed every 1 to 3 months, 3 months being the longest you should go without changing it. Keep in mind the cleaner you air filter, the cleaner your air, and the more efficiently your HVAC system performs.
Now that you’re an expert on the ins and outs of your HVAC air filter we know you’ll do your best to maintain a smooth running system. While remembering to change your air filter sounds overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be. At Snowflake Air we have established a worry free filter program to help you keep your HVAC system happy with clean filters, you’re welcome.
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