All About Furnace Filters

Routine maintenance is essential for the optimal performance of your furnace. Whether your furnace is working or not, it should be checked regularly by an expert to avoid future breakdowns. The primary function of a furnace filter is to shield the blower fan from the dirt, dust, and debris that collect in the return duct. 

How Furnace Filters Work

The furnace filters will improve the quality of your indoor air by keeping contaminants out. The furnace filter is placed between the blower fan and the return duct. This will ensure that the air that is allowed to recirculate in your home is free from contamination.

For maximum efficiency, you should use furnace filters that are appropriately rated. This will also help save the energy consumed by your furnace to heat the house. The furnace filters come in different types, depending on their MERV rating. 

What Is MERV Rating?

It is the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV). It ranges from one to sixteen. The higher the MERV rating, the greater the amount of particles that the filter will remove. 

The lower the MERV rating, the better for the furnace’s airflow. If you use a higher MERV rating, be sure to change your filter every month like clockwork.

Types of Furnace Filters

Different types of furnace filters can be installed. The type of furnace filter you use has an impact on the efficiency and lifespan of your furnace. Ensure you have the correct size filter installed so that expelled dirt, pollen, or debris don’t block the furnace’s airflow. 

High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) Filters

HEPA filters offer greater filtering of up to 99 percent of particles with a size of 0.3 microns. They offer good Indoor Air Quality (IAQ), but with a low airflow through the system.

Synthetic Filters

These are low-cost disposable fiberglass furnace filters. They can filter up to 80 percent of particles greater than 50 microns and 25 percent smaller than three microns. Synthetic filters offer minimum protection to your furnace. 

Polyester Filters

These are medium size filters made from high-quality materials. Particles with a diameter of five microns or greater are trapped and removed in the 80 -95 percent range. They are more affordable and protect against common contaminants that are harmful to health. 

Electrostatic Filters

These filters use self-charging fibers to remove particles from the system. These filters have a MERV rating of four to 10 and last up to three times longer than standard ones. They can easily be cleaned using soap and water and left to dry before re-installing. 

Conclusion

For all your furnace services and general AC services, contact Alltech HVAC Inc in Des Plains, IL. We have over 17 years of experience in the repair and maintenance of home and commercial HVAC systems.