How to Choose the Right Air Filter for Your Home

When it comes to selecting the right air filter for your home, there are a few key factors to consider. Start by turning off the oven and removing the existing oven filter, which will be inside the oven or inside the return air vent. Look for an arrow on the filter that indicates the direction of the air flow and use a permanent marker to draw the direction of the air flow on the outside of the oven, so you always know the correct way to install the filter. Next, consider the size of the oven filter, which will be printed on the cardboard frame.

Just look at the label of your current filter for proper measurements, or simply measure it yourself. Unless you have a properly sized household air filter, you'll never enjoy the full efficiency your system and filter can provide. Typically, household air filters have a thickness of 1, but there are numerous standard dimensions of width and height, and some systems have thicker filters. You've probably experienced a sense of confusion when trying to select the right household air filter for your needs.

To be considered a true HEPA filter, an air filter must be able to capture 99.97 percent of particles that exceed 0.3 microns or more in size. You probably don't want to compromise on energy efficiency for the sake of filter efficiency; you want a balance between the two. If you have little airflow, check the air filter, since clogged filters are one of the most common reasons. This system guides some of the incoming air through a HEPA filter, so ultimately all the air in your home is filtered without straining the engine.

It can help provide cleaner, filtered air by capturing a high percentage of potentially harmful airborne particles, such as smoke, dust, pet dander, and allergens, as the air passes through the filter. Because most residential HVAC systems don't have a fan motor strong enough to compensate for this slowdown, a HEPA filter would damage the motor. Think of it this way: The most efficient “filter” would actually be a piece of plywood that would trap ALL pollutants and all the air from entering your North American home. The filter has a measurable impact on both energy efficiency and performance of your system as well as indoor air quality, so you'll benefit if you take the time to find the right one. Size, MERV Rating, and Material are three main factors used to choose an appropriate air filter for your home. Make sure you buy a filter that meets exact measurements required for your system so that it has a proper fit for safety and efficiency.

A portable air purifier with a HEPA filter is an easy option for improving air quality in one room. Among least efficient flat panel types are 1-inch disposable fiberglass filters that come standard in most home heating and cooling systems. If you need additional help choosing an appropriate filter or keeping your HVAC system in good condition, contact Bill Joplins at 888-414-4655 for your HVAC needs.

Janette Tiotuico
Janette Tiotuico

Hipster-friendly pop culture enthusiast. Infuriatingly humble twitter trailblazer. Friendly music junkie. Wannabe food ninja. Typical internet fanatic.

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