What Type of Air Filter Should I Use to Replace My Current One?

When it comes to replacing your air filter, it's important to choose the right one for your needs. The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHARE) recommends a MERV 6 or higher filter for residential areas. Most people opt for a MERV 8 filter, which can remove contaminants with MERV 8 to MERV 13. Hospitals usually use MERV 14 to MERV 20. The filter should be replaced every three to 12 months, depending on the size of the filter.

For 1-inch-thick filters, the usual recommendation is three months, while for filters that are 4 inches or thicker, 12 months is normal. Electrically charged filters, also known as electronic air filters, can help capture tiny contaminants. These filters use an electrostatic precipitator to attract and capture contaminants in an aluminum tray that requires regular maintenance. Usually, these filters have a MERV 13 rating.

If you can't take a measurement, experts sometimes recommend opting for a MERV 8 pleated filter as a safe option. FilterBuy does not sell or recommend fiberglass filters due to their low MERV rating and inefficiency. The smallest amount of moisture that remains can cause mold and mildew to form on the filter and expel them into the air you breathe. Both sources usually offer the right sized air filter for your system, while aftermarket manufacturers, such as FilterBuy, add additional features, such as odor blocking, higher MERV ratings, and easier-to-replace designs.

Some filter brands and retailers use alternative scales, such as the Home Depot Air Filter Performance Rating (FPR) system or the MPR (in 3M Filtrete air filters). We also control the extent to which each filter restricts airflow using a differential pressure transducer installed in the air filter. The starting price of this type of air filter for air conditioning systems is high, but it must be considered an investment that will last for many years. However, a filter that is too dense for your configuration can make it difficult to heat and cool your home effectively and efficiently.

While they can effectively filter dust and other contaminants from the air, they provide low air filtration and are less resistant to airflow.

MERV ratings

measure the efficiency and effectiveness of air filters in capturing particles from the air. These are bypass filters that extract part of the air from the downstream return air duct and reintroduce it into the return air duct near the furnace after passing through the filter. Pleated fiberglass filters provide more efficient filtration than flat filters and are similar in size.

At FilterBuy we understand how important it is to get the right size air filter for your system. That's why we offer a wide selection of sizes and types of air filters so you can find exactly what you need. We also offer free shipping on orders over $50 and a satisfaction guarantee so you can be sure you're getting exactly what you need without any hassle or worry. I bought a filter of the wrong size and you guys did everything you could to get me the right ones.

Simon Genz
Simon Genz

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