A common problem that we see with homeowners is failing to change their HVAC air filters regularly. This leads to more dust and particles being built up in your AC system. If you are a new homeowner or brushing up on your home maintenance, here are some things you may not know about your AC air filter.

The Purpose Of Your HVAC Air Filter Is Not About Air Quality

While your HVAC air filter will help increase your home’s air quality, it is not the main purpose. Your air filter is used to protect your HVAC system from harmful particles and debris that can build up and break down your system if not maintained properly. Changing out your air filters will help your HVAC system run smoothly longer. A healthy HVAC system keeps monthly electricity bills down, and you will prevent expensive repairs.

Higher MERV Rating = Higher Efficiency

MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, this is a filter rating system devised by the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) to standardize and simplify filter efficiency ratings for the public.

The higher the MERV rating, the greater the efficiency of the AC filter. Simply stated, a MERV 13 filter will capture tinier particles from the air than a MERV 8 filter.

This enables you the ability to effectively compare one filter to another. Most MERV 8 or 11 pleated materials should perform about the same as any other MERV 8 or 11 filter. The MERV rating only applies to efficiency. If allergies or asthma are your concern, then we suggest you choose a MERV 11 filter or higher.

High Rated Filters Can Restrict Airflow

Not all AC filters are made for all types of AC systems. Highest-rated AC filters are most commonly found in hospitals and other sterile environments where air needs to be filtered more often. While residential systems are not typically designed for these types of filters, your HVAC system may have the capability. Always check your HVAC system to determine which filter is best suited before purchasing.

High-Efficiency Filters Can Cause Damage to Your HVAC Unit

High-efficiency filters can actually slow the airflow in your furnace and AC unit. A higher electric bill and damage to your unit overtime can be a result of using a high efficiency filter your unit. While a dirty air filter is most commonly known as the main source of a system failure, using the wrong filter type can cause serious problems as well.

What Happens When You Don’t Change Your AC & Furnace Filter Regularly

The longer that you go without changing your AC filter, the more buildup your filter collects. Once your filter can no longer property filter out particles, it increases the potential damage to your unit. Less air will begin to move through the filter causing your home to heat and cool unevenly.