how to choose an air filter
TRANSCRIPT
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.
MERV rating: 14-20
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.
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