Even though it’s one of the least exciting components of your HVAC system, your furnace filter is an integral piece of the overall HVAC puzzle. The main purpose of your furnace’s filter is to protect the blower fan from everything that gets pulled in by the return duct. Depending on what’s going on in your household, this may include pet hair, dust and other assorted debris. It doesn’t clean the air so much as it removes contaminants from being recirculated, which will improve the air quality.
Of course, using the right kind of filter is crucial if you want the best possible result. Here is some information on the types of furnace filters and how to select the best one for your needs.
Furnace Ratings
First, we should mention, furnace ratings. Furnace filters are rated using a system called MERV, or the minimum efficiency reporting value. The ratings go from 1 to 16 and the higher the rating, the more particles the filter can remove. For most homes, a MERV rating of between 8 and 11 should be just fine. Some furnace manufacturers have a maximum MERV rating that can be used, so it’s always best to check.
Types of Furnace Filters
Here is a breakdown of the 6 types of furnace filters you should consider:
- Disposable Fiberglass: This is probably the most common you’ll find for regular, residential use. It consists of a 1-inch-thick spun fibreglass and typically has a MERV rating of 2 to 3. These filters are very inexpensive but don’t really do much to keep your indoor air clean.
- Disposable Pleated: Disposable pleated filters are made from cotton or polyester paper, and even though they can remove some smaller particles, they need to be changed frequently to prevent clogging and causing your HVAC system to work too hard.
- High-Efficiency Pleated: These are made from pleated synthetic cotton that is around 4 to 5 inches thick and attached to a rigid metal grid. These are often used in hospitals because they filter out the smallest of particles with a MERV rating of 14 to 16. They also cost a lot, at up to $100 each, and can only be installed in certain homes due to their thickness.
- Disposable Electrostatic: This type of furnace filter consists of self-charging electrostatic paper fibres or cotton that attract small particles and then trap them to keep them out of your indoor living space. They are a good solution for homes with kids or pets, and they have a MERV rating of 10.
- Reusable Electrostatic: This filter has the same attributes as the disposable ones, but they have a removable filter you can machine wash that lasts for six to eight years. The MERV rating is 8.
- Polyester: This type of filter is denser than fibreglass and blocks a higher volume of airborne particles. You can get flat or pleated versions and thicknesses up to 4 inches. These trap up to 91 percent of common airborne particles.
Do you want to learn more about how to get better air quality at your home? Contact the industry experts at Air Treatment ClimateCare today for the best advice on filters.
Furnace Filter Sizes
There are many different sizes available for residential use, but the most common are 16x25x4, 16x25x5 and a 20x25x5 furnace filter. When you look at the side of the door of your filter cabinet, you should be able to see the size you need for your system. It’s important to have an exact fit to get the best possible results.
Speak to an Expert Today
Are you unsure how to choose the right furnace filter for your system? Call the experts at Air Treatment ClimateCare to get the best advice available.
