Does an AC Air Filter Make a Difference?

The right HVAC filters can make a huge difference in the quality of air you breathe in your home. From removing impurities such as dust, pet dander, and bacteria to improving the air quality and protecting your HVAC system from potential damage, the right filter can make all the difference. When it comes to the health and comfort of your family, friends, and other guests, it's important to invest in an efficient air filter. Not only do filters allow people to breathe easier, but they can also reduce odors and make your home a more pleasant place to live.

If you want to take it a step further, consider adding an air purifier for even cleaner air. Household HVAC air filters are rated based on their MERV rating, with most household filters between 1 and 13 (more than 13 are for HEPA filters). To ensure optimal performance, it's recommended that you change your filter at least every season, if not once a month. If you're looking for a more cost-effective option, consider investing in a reusable filter that captures the types of contaminants you need to filter for your family.

Thanks to today's smart home technology, you can even purchase smart filters such as 3M Filtrete smart air filters that use sensors to monitor airflow. If you neglected to change the AC filter for some time, there is a good chance that a lot of dust will accumulate inside the ducts. If you've never changed your air conditioning filter before, it's best to have an HVAC technician do it the first time. An electrostatic air filter is another option that is washable and uses static electricity to capture particles.

The value of an electrostatic filter is that it captures smaller particles than a standard washable filter and is completely reusable. We measure how well an air filter removes dust, pollen and smoke from the air, and we see how freely air flows through the filter at any fan speed.