Choosing the Right Air Filter

Walk into most any hardware store or other establishment that sells heating and cooling accessories and you’re bound to encounter a color-coded mish-mash of air filter choices. By spending some time deciphering the coloring/numbering legend, you’re likely to be able to find the size and style of filter that’s right for you.

Here are some other considerations to think about, courtesy of Angie’s List:

First, be aware of the filter’s MERV rating, or Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. Higher MERVs translate into more efficient filters, while lower MERV scores are assigned to less efficient ones.

Polyester and pleated air filters generally trap dust and dirt better than their fiberglass-based counterparts. These can wind up trapping nearly half of the airborne pollutants found in the average home. They retail for around $10 each and carry MERV ratings of between 8 and 13.

Fiberglass filters are usually quite thin and are intended to protect your HVAC unit rather than improve air quality. For these reasons, it’s probably best not to use them in your household heating and cooling equipment. They remove less than 10 percent of household air pollutants and come with measly MERV ratings of between 1 and 4.

High efficiency air filters can remove as much as 85 percent of household air pollutants, are sold in the neighborhood of $25 apiece and come with MERV ratings between 14 and 16, with 16 being the top rating. These filters can trap small particles of mold, pollen and dust and are typically used in hospital or other “clean room” environments. Homeowners can enjoy adequate particle control with filters that carry MERV ratings in the 9 to 12 range.

Washable air filters are generally not a good idea because they carry low MERV ratings (between 1 and 4) while also requiring a great deal of maintenance. They also are prone to becoming bogged down with bacteria and fungi, which can then break loose and circulate throughout your home.

Have more filter questions? Contact AC World today!