Air Filters 101: Know the Basics

Air filters are an essential part of your home’s heating and cooling system. They make sure the unit and your indoor air stays clean. Dirty air filters affect the performance of your system and might even be responsible for higher than normal utility bills. A general rule of thumb: Change your air filter monthly. You might need to change it less (or more) frequently depending on the filter type, unit location, size of home and environmental aspects like pet hair, heavy foot traffic,  and tobacco smoke, which will reduce the life of your filter.

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Filers are usually located behind a hinged or removable cover, either on your wall or ceiling. Remove the cover and you’ll find the filter. If you’re filter is dirty, you’ll know by the build up of particles. When air filters are dirty, it takes more energy to force air through, leading to long term damage within the  unit and negatively affects the air quality in your home.

  • Get the right size! Air filters come in many sizes. If you can locate your air filter, the size is printed on the filter frame. Use these dimensions to purchase a replacement. If you can’t locate your unit’s filter, give us a call.

  • Does price matter? Not all HVAC air filters are the same. What’s important is a filter’s efficiency, which refers to how well it traps airborne particles. The MERV, or minimum efficiency reporting value, rating system makes it easy to compare the efficiency of different air filters. A higher MERV means greater efficiency. Low-efficiency filters are designed only to protect your system, not to clean your air. Lower-end medium-efficiency filters (MERV 5 to 9) clean the air well enough for those without respiratory issues. For someone with allergies, asthma or a similar concern, give us a call.We have several options to help you improve the air quality in your home.

  • Need help? Give us a call! We’ll check the status of your air filter as a part of our seasonal maintenance check up.

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Added Benefits of Clean Filters: The Environment!

Changing the filters in your HVAC system reduces your carbon footprint and energy consumption by maximizing the efficiency of your heating and cooling system. Changing the filter once a month  will optimize the system efficiency and could save you up to 10% in utility costs this year!

Jessica Crumfilter, dust