Air Filters

Home Air Filters

Home air filters provide a method of cleaning the air and removing various particles like dust, pollen, and dirt. They also help protect HVAC systems by keeping the particles from leaving the air and moving into the systems. Furnace filters are made for a variety of systems and uses, but mainly reduce the levels of dust in the air.

Home air filters provide a filtration system designed to increase the quality of air that people breathe. In the home, where there are people with allergies, the filter removes allergens that can lead to asthma attacks. Another purpose of a home air filter is to protect the home heating and air conditioning systems. In cold climates, furnace filters clean the air returning to the furnace system and help preserve the system. They trap debris and hold it instead of letting the dust, pollen, and particles float in the air or process through the heat and air systems.

• Single occupant or vacation homes: The filter should be changed at least every 6 months.
• Families with no pets: The air filter should be changed every 3 months.
• Families with pets: The filter should be changed every 2 months.
• Single occupant or families with a smoker: The air filter should be changed monthly.
• Single occupant or family with allergies: The filter should be changed monthly.

• Fiberglass filter: These are disposable and made of spun glass. They generally last around 30 days.
• Polyester and pleated filter: These are disposable and made of wire-backed synthetic materials that allow fewer pieces of debris to pass through the system and back to the indoor air.
• High efficiency particulate arrestance (HEPA) filter: These are disposable and made of randomly applied fibers. They are for use in medical facilities, businesses, and homes.
• Washable air filter: These are made of electrostatic materials designed to be washable and are a permanent option for an air conditioner or furnace.

The minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) rating is an industry rating system that allows the consumer to know how effective an air filter is at removing allergens from indoor air. The higher the rating, the denser the filter and the higher the level of filtration.

Furnace filters vary in size depending on depth, length, and width. When purchasing a replacement, knowing the existing dimensions is important. Find the filter and look for numbers in the length x width x depth format (example: 16 x 20 x 1).