You need to change your filter regularly to keep your HVAC system running efficiently. What kind of new HVAC air filters do you need, though? Some people think they can just get whatever’s cheap and available, but the kind of filter you put in your system really does make a difference. Here are a few reasons why you shouldn’t skimp on new HVAC air filters.
- Air quality. Ideally, you want a pleated air filter with a MERV rating between 10 and 12. However, some filters are little more than thin membranes, flimsy enough that you can see through them. A lot of dust and other allergens flow through them and circulate through your air. Get a quality filter to eliminate those contaminants and breathe easier.
- Efficiency. Clean, breathable air is a side benefit of your HVAC filter. Its main purpose is to eliminate contaminants that would otherwise get into your system’s electrical components and stop it from working properly. A poor-quality filter lets more of those contaminants in, letting them build up over time and cause your system to work less efficiently.
- Cost. The main reason people skimp on new HVAC air filters is to save money, but the cheaper ones actually cost you more in the long run. A quality filter will last six months or more before it needs to be replaced. Some even last up to a year. A cheap filter, though, will clog much more quickly, needing replacement every couple of months. Over time, you’ll spend more on replacement filters than you would by simply buying quality filters in the first place.
- Damage. An inadequate air filter can damage your system. When it clogs, it restricts airflow, forcing the system to work harder, thus wearing it out sooner. That restricted airflow can also cause your evaporator coil to freeze. To prevent this, get a quality air filter and replace it regularly.
If you need new HVAC air filters in your home, contact us at Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning to be sure you get the right ones. We serve Lorain, Elyria, and Oberlin’s heating and cooling needs.
Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning
1 (440) 246-5440
Serving the Lorain, OH Area