Air filters are a central part of any heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. They keep the system functioning at its best. Experts claim they are essential for people with respiratory problems, and that you need to change them every 1 to 2 months. But do we actually need them? And do they work? How to pick the right one from different types, and why do we need to change them? We have answers to your questions.

Why We Need Air Filters

Air filters work to filter the air from different types of allergens. If the allergens reach the indoor air, they might cause allergic reactions or go as far as to damage the respiratory system. These allergens include dust, dirt, pollen, mold and mold spores, hair and animal fur, dander, bacteria, and other microorganisms.  

Those who have respiratory problems like asthma or allergies, and those who have pets are the people who need a clean air filter the most. That also applies to households that have children and elders. It also includes people who live in an area that has too much dust or pollen. That being said, anyone who has an HVAC system needs to change the air filter regularly to avoid damaging the system. 

Do They Work? How?

How air filters work differs from type to type, but they do have a standard method. They have a filter media, which traps the particles as the air flows through it. Particles here refer to the allergens like dust, pet fur, dirt, and hair. The filter media acts as a sieve by capturing particles that are larger than the hole. 

Different Types of Air Filters

There is a difference between how types of air filters work. Do your research to make the right decision as to which type works best for your system. You will find resources online to help you choose something efficient and inexpensive. 

Briefly - here are six types: 

• Fiberglass is best at maintaining the HVAC system but will not remove many particles. 

• Pleated air filters work much better at removing pollutants as it is made from polyester or cotton. 

• Electrostatic filters will magnetize the airborne particles to prevent them from being spread in your home. Some electrostatic air filters are washable, meaning you can remove and clean them instead of changing them altogether. 

• Washables cost more, but they last longer. Try to clean them as early as possible and leave them to dry before replacing them. 

• HEPA air filters are the most recommended as they remove 99.97% of particles, and they are the best for people with respiratory problems. 

• Lastly, UV filters use ultraviolet rays to eliminate bacteria and viruses. 

Why You Need to Change Them Regularly

What happens inside an air filter is that the pollutants and particles will accumulate in the filter media. At first, that’s a good thing because it means more particles get filtered. However, after a while, it will clog the airflow, that is why you need to change the air filter every 30 days, just to be safe. If a household member is a smoker, then change it more than once a month. 

What happens if you don’t change it? Other than the health issues, the air conditioner, heater, or your HVAC system will become less efficient, and it may get damaged and eventually stop working.

How to Pick the Right Air Filter

Each of the types we mentioned has a different minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) rating. MERV rating determines the quality of the air filter, the higher it is, the better. HEPA has the highest MERV, while fiberglass has the lowest. Understandably, the higher the MERV, the better the quality and also the higher the price. To pick a standard or a premium air filter depends on a few factors. The budget is one thing to consider but if your child is asthmatic, then it is worth getting a higher grade filter. 

Other factors all relate to the state of the air and of the people who live in the house. If you live near a field or an industrial area, you need a bigger and more efficient filter. Having a pet, smoker, candles, air fresheners, or other items that generate toxins, also calls for a bigger filter. On the other hand, if your circumstances are fairly straightforward then something like this 16x25x1 air filter will likely be sufficient. If any of the household members have respiratory issues, you need a premium filter such as a HEPA filter. 

The answer is yes; air filters do work. They prevent a lot of pollutants from entering your air system. All you have to do is pick the right type of air filter. Then, you have to change it every 1 to 2 months. This way, you will guarantee a fresher, cleaner air in your house.