Maintaining comfort and good indoor air quality in your St. Louis, Missouri, home should be high priorities. One vital component of keeping your home comfortable is to choose the right air filter. Here are some tips to help you choose the right air filter for your HVAC system.
Understand the Options
There are three primary types of residential filters you can choose from. One of the most common and least expensive options is the fiberglass filter. Fiberglass filters are disposable and made of layers of fiberglass reinforced with metal grating. Another option is a pleated filter, which is similar to a fiberglass filter. However, this is more durable and better at trapping dust particles. The final option is a washable filter and requires regular cleaning.
Determine the MERV Rating
Each filter will have a Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating. This MERV rating indicates the size of particles the filter will remove, with higher ratings trapping smaller particles. Lower ratings up to four can stop between 60-80 percent of particles. Most homeowners will use filters that are rated somewhere between seven and eight, which will sufficiently trap dangerous debris and dust. If you have a home with pets or someone who suffers from asthma or allergies, you should choose a filter that has a MERV rating of nine or 10.
Follow Your Manufacturer’s Guidelines
Check your HVAC system’s manufacturer’s guide to make sure you choose a recommended filter type and size. The filter will need to be an exact fit for the system, both in dimensions and recommended MERV ratings, to ensure that it operates both safely and efficiently.
By choosing the correct type of filter, as well as the appropriate MERV rating, you will help keep your system functioning properly. Not sure which filter is best for you? Contact C & G Heating & Cooling at (314) 254-9196.
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