The furnace filter you choose plays a vital role in your home’s air quality and the efficiency of your HVAC system. With so many options available, selecting the right one can feel overwhelming. Factors like filter type, size, and MERV rating all impact how well your furnace performs and how clean your indoor air stays.
At G1 Air, we’ve been helping San Antonio homeowners make informed HVAC decisions since 2017. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the essentials of furnace filters, so you can make the best choice for your home.
1. Choose the Right Filter Size
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a furnace filter is size. Filters are generally measured by length, width, and depth (or thickness), which allow them to fit snugly into the furnace’s filter slot without being too tight or loose.
The easiest way to determine what size filter you need is to look at the old one. The size should be printed on the filter frame. Alternatively, you can measure the filter yourself, check for the recommended filter dimensions in the furnace’s owner manual, or contact the manufacturer for assistance.
The most common furnace filter sizes include 14 in x 25 in, 16 in x 20 in, 16 in x 25 in, 20 in x 25 in, and 25 in x 25 in. If you’re unable to determine the appropriate size filter for your equipment, contact an HVAC specialist for help. Give G1 Air a call anytime at (830)985-8500 and we’d be happy to help.
2. Select an Appropriate MERV Rating
A minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) rating determines the effectiveness of an air filter. The higher the MERV rating, the better equipped the filter is at trapping tiny particles in the air. Filter MERV ratings range from 1 to 20, with 1 being the least efficient and 20 being the most efficient.
While selecting a filter with a high MERV rating may seem like the best option, other aspects may influence your decision. For example, filters with high MERV ratings tend to have high densities, which will capture more particles from the air. This is great for your air quality but leads to the filter needing to be replaced more often, which can lead to increased costs.
When determining an appropriate MERV rating for your particular heating system, take time to check your system specifications. Most residential HVAC systems work best with filters that have a MERV rating between 8 and 13. Ultimately, the judgment call is yours, depending factors in your home and your preference for replacement schedule.
3. Compare Filter Types
When shopping for furnace filters, you’ll likely come across a variety of options. The type of filter you choose will play a direct role in its effectiveness. Some of the most common types of furnace filters include:
- Fiberglass Air Filters: Fiberglass filters are the most affordable option. However, they also have the lowest MERV rating, with a typical rating between 1 and 4. If having high air quality is a priority, fiberglass air filters may not be the best option for your home. They are better suited for homeowners who value energy efficiency and want to place the least restrictions on airflow.
- Washable Air Filters: As the name suggests, a washable filter can be cleaned and reused. Unlike a fiberglass filter that should be replaced monthly, washable air filters only need to be replaced every few years.
- Electrostatic Air Filters: When it comes to electrostatic air filters, homeowners have the option of both disposable and reusable options. The charged fibers in these filters work to effectively capture both small and large particles in the air. The larger surface area helps to capture more particles.
Another important decision you’ll need to make when comparing filter types is pleated or non-pleated. Pleated air filters tend to be the most efficient and typically last longer than their non-pleated counterparts. This is because pleated filters contain considerably more surface area which can trap pollutants and contaminants without disturbing air flow. Pleated filters are best suited for systems that require moderate to high MERV ratings.
You can trust the HVAC experts at G1 Air to help you determine the best type of air filter for your particular system and air quality needs.
4. Consider the Level of Maintenance
While no air filter lasts forever, the type of filter you choose will influence the level of maintenance you’ll encounter when caring for your heating system. Reusable filters require more maintenance than disposable filters that you simply throw away and replace.
While reusable filters do reduce waste, they must be regularly cleaned to remove dirt and dust buildup that can restrict airflow. Washable filters are generally constructed of a heavy aluminum frame with fibers that must be cleaned and completely dried before reinstalling. Cleaning these filters usually means rinsing them off in the shower or with a garden hose.
At G1 Air, we know that maintaining your heating and cooling equipment can be costly. That is why we offer financing and other money-saving promotions for the repairs or installation work that your home needs to remain healthy and comfortable.
5. Take Into Account Air Quality Needs
When it comes to air quality needs, not all homes are made equal. For example, a home with occupants with asthma or other respiratory conditions will generally need better air quality than a home with relatively healthy occupants. However, just because you may be healthy doesn’t mean you should overlook the importance of good air quality.
The air quality in your home can greatly influence your long-term health. Most people can benefit from filters made of denser materials, such as polyester, which help block more airborne particles and offer ample filtration. Electrostatic air filters, which use electricity to attract and trap particles, can also be efficient at maintaining optimal air quality in a home.
If your home contains allergy sufferers, look for filters with a higher MERV rating, generally between 8 and 13, to effectively capture pet dander and pollen. Those with asthma may want to consider a HEPA filter, which is capable of trapping particles as small as 0.3 microns.
Schedule Service with G1 Air
Choosing the right furnace filter is a simple step that can make a big difference in your home’s comfort, air quality, and HVAC efficiency. By understanding the options and selecting a filter that fits your needs, you’ll ensure your system runs smoothly and your family breathes cleaner air.
If you have any questions or need assistance, the experts at G1 Air are here to help. Since 2017, we’ve been the trusted HVAC professionals for San Antonio and surrounding areas. Contact us today at (830)985-8500 for expert advice or to schedule a service appointment!
