Want to Know the Best HVAC Filters to Use in Summer?

You know how important it is to change your AC filter regularly. It not only keeps your air clean, but doing so improves airflow, makes your home more comfortable and saves energy. What kind of filter should you buy, though? What should you look for in an air filter? Which are the best ones? Here’s a guide to the best HVAC filters this summer.

What to Look For

Look at the MERV rating, aka the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. This measures a filter’s ability to capture particles and remove them from the air. The higher a filter’s MERV rating, the smaller the particles it can handle. For residential HVAC use, look for a MERV rating between 9 and 12. You may be tempted to get one that has a higher rating, but beware: Higher-efficiency filters aren’t designed for your HVAC system. They can actually block airflow and damage your unit.

If you or others in your household suffer from allergies, consider investing in an air purifier. These are designed for high-efficiency filters with higher MERV ratings. They can clean your air more efficiently and remove even the smallest particles. These high-efficiency filters are more expensive, but they can boost your IAQ significantly.

Finding the Best HVAC Filters for You

What filter you get depends on your home’s needs. For allergies, we like the Filtrete Micro Allergen Defense filter. It uses an electrostatic charge to attract particles and remove allergens from your home.

If you have pets, check out the FilterBuy Pleated air filter. It’s great for removing pet hair and pet dander, along with dirt and other debris that your pets bring into the house.

If you want something a bit less pricey that can still get the job done, one of the best HVAC filters is the Rheem Basic Household Pleated filter. It’s only around $5 but does a fine job of keeping dust and pollen out of your air for up to three months.

For more help finding the best HVAC filters for your system, contact us at Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning. Lorain, Elyria, and Oberlin trust us for quality home-comfort solutions.