No matter what type of HVAC system you have, it is important to choose the right air filter for your home. HVAC air filters differ in quality and dimensions, and some have characteristics that others do not. In most cases, we recommend that you use the filter that the HVAC manufacturer recommends to combine with your system. All filters are assigned MERV ratings, ranging from 1 to 20.
MERV stands for minimum efficiency report value. The purpose of the air filter is to trap pollutants in the air. The amount of contaminants the filter can trap is measured by its MERV rating. This rating can vary from 1 to 16, depending on the quality of the oven filter.
All filters, OEM oven filters and oven filters discounted alike, will bear this rating. To determine which high-quality filter to buy, it is better to look for a desirable MERV rating, rather than looking for a brand name. By selecting your filter based on the MERV rating, you ensure that you find a high performance, high quality filter, regardless of the brand name. The important thing is the classification of the filter.
For example, replacement Honeywell oven filters can be purchased through various filter manufacturers. They are manufactured to the same specifications as the branded filter. Simply choose a filter size and MERV rating that meets your needs. Indoor air quality is a crucial element for any homeowner, especially if members of your household have respiratory problems.
The right HVAC filters can make the difference between congested air full of pollutants and clean air that is healthy and easy to breathe. Understanding the different types of air filters for homes is the first step to getting the best indoor air quality you deserve. Media filters provide the same level of filtration as a high MERV filter, but they do so without the negative consequences of airflow or static pressure. To help you master the ins and outs of air filters, we have prepared a practical guide with everything you need to know.
An often-cited comprehensive independent test of the effects of MERV filters 8 through 13 on HVAC airflow and energy consumption (an indicator of how hard the equipment is working) concluded that even “if no adaptations are made for the higher pressure drop of high MERV filters, airflow and energy penalties are not likely to be serious at least, not until the filter is laden with dirt”. Pleated oven filters made of cotton paper or synthetic fibers offer greater filtration capacity, but can restrict air flow to the system. Some people need HVAC system filters that keep the air free of allergens and other contaminants, while others just need a basic filter to get the job done. You've probably heard how important it is to change your home's air filter regularly.
However, if the particulate load in the air increases due to having pets, leaving windows open, lighting candles frequently, or other activities, you may notice that the filter becomes more dirty and requires a quicker replacement. To make it easier to compare the effectiveness of one filter with another, the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) developed the MERV rating system. We have the best options for portable air conditioners if a window unit or central air does not work for you. The best way to measure the size of an air filter is to take out a measuring tape and measure it directly.
These filters are not known to improve air quality as they cannot put much effort and can only catch some dust and allergens. In fact, there are many different types of air filters available and choosing the right one can make a real difference to the life of your HVAC system. We think manufacturers' concerns are a little cautious partly because a recent innovation in air filters allows for high MERV ratings (11 to 1) with low pressure drop. He later chaired the ASHRAE 52.2 committee which regularly updates the standard to address changes in filter technology.
If your HVAC system uses a coarser filter (usually in the 4 to 5 inch range and usually mounted on an air handler), it is likely designed specifically for medium-efficiency MERV filtration.
