Five Fun Facts About Furnace and Air Conditioner Air Filters

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Air filters are essential for maintaining HVAC efficiency and indoor air quality. You need to change them regularly, so they continue to perform their vital duties. Never underestimate this component, as it offers much in the way of a healthy home environment. Here are five fun facts about your home air filter in St. Louis, MO:

  • Clean filters provide airflow: When your HVAC system takes in air to heat or cool your home, it first goes through the air filter. The filter catches allergens, dirt and particles, which keeps them from infiltrating your house. However, if the particles build up, they block the essential airflow that runs your HVAC system. Air dries out and stagnates, making it difficult for respiratory systems and skin. That’s why you must keep the air filter clean and set up a regular HVAC maintenance schedule.
  • They save you money: Good airflow helps HVAC systems run efficiently. If a blocked or dirty air filter impedes airflow, your furnace or air conditioner works harder and makes more demands on gas and electricity. Those demands show up in your utility bill. Energy costs are already on the rise, and the last thing you need is developments affecting how your HVAC runs. Keep your air filters clean and avoid this extra expense.
  • One size does not fit all: You need to know your air filter’s specifications, because there is no one type. Air filters come in different styles, sizes and shapes. Your air conditioner may require a standard or custom size. You can find the kind of air filter you need by checking your user manual or seeing specifications on your old air filter. If you cannot ascertain the type, ask your local HVAC technician.
  • All about the MERV: The industry standard for air filters is the minimum efficiency reporting value, or MERV. It starts at one and goes as high as 16. If you want better airflow and efficiency, choose a MERV as high as you can afford. Even if you pay more for these high-rated filters, you will save money on your utility bills. The highest-rated filters catch and capture more particles than the lower-rated ones, and they do not need to be replaced as frequently.
  • Vacuuming is not enough: Many homeowners seek to save money on air filters by vacuuming the old ones. However, they are disposable for a reason. Vacuuming releases particles, dirt and allergens into your home, contaminating it all over again. Never wash it either, since it will fall apart and become even more useless than when it was dirty. Also, wet air filters grow mold, and that is an entirely new complex problem that makes your home less hospitable.

Ashley Brothers Heating & Cooling is your local HVAC specialist in St. Louis, MO. Now that you know these facts about your home air filter, perhaps you feel motivated to check yours and see if it is time to replace it. Contact us today to schedule a maintenance appointment that includes checking and replacing air filters.