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When looking for the right air filter, there are many things to keep in mind.
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How to Choose an Air Filter • When looking for the right air filter, there are many things to keep in mind.
What is MERV? • To figure out the effectiveness of your air filter, you need to understand MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) ratings. • The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) designed this rating system to measure the efficiency of the filter at removing airborne particles .3-10 microns (one millionth of a meter) in size. MERV ratings range from 1-20.
Common Air Filters • There are two main types of air filters to choose from: disposable and washable. • Most HVAC professionals agree that disposable air filters are better.
Fiberglass (disposable) • Fiberglass air filters are the most popular type of air filter, but that doesn’t mean they are the best. • In fact, they are probably the cheapest air filters that you can find in the market. • The filters are able to catch large particulates, such as dust and lint, but let other, smaller particles pass right through. MERV rating: 1-4
Polyester (disposable and washable) • These pleated air filters have a larger surface area, allowing them to capture more airborne particles, however, this extra material can also impede necessary airflow. • There are also washable pleated polyester filters available, which will cost more upfront, but will last you longer, saving money in the long run. MERV rating: 5-13
Electrostatic (disposable and washable) • Although most popular in its disposable form, electrostatic air filters also come in permanent, washable varieties. • These self-charging paper or cotton filters use a process called electrostatic to attract and capture airborne particles. MERV rating: 8-11
HEPA (disposable and washable) • If you want the best of the best, HEPA (high efficiency particulate arrestance) filters are the way to go. • These filters are mostly used in hospitals and other medical facilities, but for people who have respiratory or autoimmune problems, HEPA may be the cheapest healthcare you can get. • If you want the best filtration money can buy, ask your HVAC professional before they install your new furnace or air conditioning system that you would like HEPA filter. MERV rating: 14-20
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