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what does an air filter do for your home?The air filter is a vital component of your HVAC system. Most people are aware of their existence, and they probably also know you’re supposed to swap it out on a regular basis. But what does that air filter actually do? Is its sole purpose to clean and improve the indoor air quality in your home?

5 Facts about Air Filters

The air filter often looks like a flat cardboard box of sorts, with pleated or fiberglass materials throughout. Because they are out of sight and therefore out of mind, it’s not uncommon for us to forget about them altogether.  However, proper maintenance and care (in other words, regularly replacing) the air filter is key to the comfort levels, air quality and an efficiently-running HVAC system in your home.

Here are five facts about HVAC air filters:

  1. Air filters improve indoor air quality. Air filters trap dust, dirt, pollen, pet dander and fur, lint, mold and mold spores and more. So, what this means is that these particles are less likely to get into your home’s duct work and into the air.
  2. Air filters keep your system working properly and efficiently. While the air filter helps trap the contaminants mentioned above from polluting the air in your home, it also keeps them from clogging up your HVAC system.
  3. It’s important to choose the right air filter for your system. MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values, and they are expressed on a scale from one to twenty. The lower the number, the lower the quality of the air filter. In general, most homes can utilize an air filter with a MERV rating of 3-10. In fact, filters with a MERV rating of higher than 16 are so thick and dense they may interfere with the airflow inside your system. Choosing the right air filter is key to getting the most out of your system.
  4. Stocking up on air filters for the year is a good idea. Buy an entire box of air filters the next time you visit your local hardware store. If you have a supply of air filters ready at all times, you’ll be more likely to replace them on a regular basis – and keep your system working as efficiently as possible throughout the year.
  5. When in doubt, call the professionals. Maybe you just moved in to your home and you’re not familiar with your new HVAC system. Or, maybe you just aren’t comfortable touching this expensive piece of equipment. There’s nothing wrong with reaching out to a professional heating and cooling company for help. The last thing you want to do is install the wrong type of filter, or install it incorrectly and cause possible irreversible damage to your system.

Remember, a dirty or clogged air filter is the primary source of most HVAC system malfunctions. Visually inspect your filter on a monthly basis, and if it’s looking full of dust and debris, or appears damaged in any way, it’s time to change it.

If you have any questions about the right air filter for your system, or need help switching it out, the team at Efficient Heating and Cooling is ready to help! If you’re in the greater Cleveland area, contact our team today! Or, give us a call at 216-663-6462.