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Your Quick Guide to Air Filters

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Did you know the air filters in your home are also known as furnace filters? They’re the part of your HVAC unit that is responsible for keeping the heat exchanges and coils clean. You’ll need to change or replace them from time to time and to save effort and money, you can get air filters online.

If these coils and other parts get dirty—i.e., dirt accumulates on them all the time—then the entire HVAC system will work harder to reach those optimum levels. You end up paying a higher bill. Before you buy any filter, you should know the type, style, material, shape, and size of the screen that you need to get.

This short guide will aid you in that regard.

What Are the Different Types of Filters?

Air filters come in a variety of sizes. Check and measure your filter to figure out its dimensions. You should note that most HVAC systems have filters that are 1-inch thick. However, it’s best if you measure your current screen to be sure.

There are special sized filters for your room air conditioners, ventilation openings, ceilings, and walls. Again, it’s best to measure the dimensions of your screen, so you’re sure to get the right one when you shop online.

The material and style of the filter will also have different types. Check the density of the material since it will affect the overall performance of your system. It will also affect the volume and also the size of the particles it can filter.

The most cost-efficient ones are those that have fiber layers on them. They are often encased in honeycomb-shaped grilles.

If you’re looking for more efficiency, then get pleated filters. They have a larger surface area, which means they can trap more particles compared to other styles of filters. There are also reusable types of air filters that you can just wash and rinse with water.

Check the MPR and MERV Ratings

MPR is short for Microparticle Performance Rating. It tells you how efficient the filter is when it comes to capturing smoke, bacteria, and particulates. The higher the MPR, the better it is.

MERV, on the other hand, stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. It tells you how well a filter can trap small particles, and it is measured in microns. The MERV rating is usually anywhere from 1 to 12.

Again, the higher the MERV rating, the better it is. This is a standard rating, so you can use it to compare filters from different manufacturers. Keep these factors in mind next time you’re in the market for air filters.

Some More Shopping Tips!

Here are some more shopping tips that will help you save money when you’re buying air filters online:

  • Always buy in bulk—Buying only a single filter usually costs twice as much compared to a bulk purchase of filters.
  • Nominal vs. actual size—This is the most common mistake that consumers make when they purchase air filters. Remember to use the actual dimensions of your filters when you make your purchase.
  • Always purchase the right MERV rating for your replacement filter. It will ensure that the filter you’re going to buy will be compatible with your HVAC system.
  • Always get a subscription from a supplier—you miss out on discount promotions when you skip the subscription. Sure they will send you promotional offers in your email from time to time, but if it will save you a lot of money, then the trade-off is worth it.

Getting the right type, material, rating, size, and dimensions of a replacement filter can save you a lot of time and money. Follow these tips to make sure you find the perfect air filters online that will work for your HVAC.