At MTB Mechanical, we’re always encouraging customers to change air filters on a regular basis. This is an easy yet important step in helping to keep your heating and cooling system operating cleanly and efficiently.
That said, if you’ve ever walked the filter aisle of a big box store, you know that choices are everywhere. Which filter is right for you and your home? The brand? The thickness? The MERV rating? What does it all mean?
Here are a few things to consider when making your selection:
Fiberglass Filters – 1”
Low MERV rating – This is the most basic and value-priced air filter available. But the MERV rating is low – and the MERV rating refers to Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values (MERV), indicating the particle size that a filter will remove from your air. The higher the rating (from 1 to 16), the more successful a filter is at catching the smallest particles. Fiberglass filters do indeed filter the air, but they only catch the larger particulates. So if anyone in your home has allergies, a fiberglass filter is not the best choice.
Pleated Filters – 1”
Low MERV rating – These filters are a better grade than the fiberglass variety, and use a heavier stitched material. While more expensive than fiberglass, pleated filters are worth the extra money because they catch more particulates in the air.
Fiberglass and Pleated Filters – 2” to 4”
Medium MERV rating – A step up from 1” filters, these thicker filters (both fiberglass and pleated) catch more particulates, and don’t need to be changed as often as thinner filters. While they cost more, 2” to 4” filters pay off by lasting longer. That said, it’s a good idea before purchasing to check to see if your HVAC system can accommodate a thicker filter.
Pleated Filters – With Cabinet
High MERV rating – These high-grade filters are so effective at air filtration, they’re used in hospitals. Not surprisingly, this premium product comes at a higher price, but in catching particulates and allergens, these are the best-performing filters available, and ideal for anyone suffering from allergies. This system operates in a special cabinet that must be installed by an HVAC professional. MTB Mechanical offers the Lennox® Healthy Climate® Carbon Clean 16® Media Air Cleaner, which provides powerful filtration without restricting the airflow of your system, and captures particulate matter down to 0.3 microns — over 95% of air particles!
Once you choose the air filter that works for you, the next step is remembering to change it! MTB makes it easy with our FREE filter reminder, which you can schedule to receive in your inbox on a monthly or quarterly basis. Sign up today – and breathe easy knowing you’re doing your part to enjoy cleaner, fresher air.
