You might be shocked to learn that only approximately 18% of homeowners with AC systems remember to change their air filters monthly. Though ignored far more often than they should be, air filters are crucial for keeping airborne pollutants like dust, dirt, and dander from circulating in your home. It only takes about a month for such debris to accumulate to the point that your air filter needs a change.
Do you need to change your air conditioning filter but don’t know how to choose the best AC air filter for you? This brief guide will break down five key tips to make sure you do it right.
1. Know Your AC Filter Size
Prior to an AC filter change, you will first want to know the dimensions of the AC filter you will be replacing. These measurements can be found in your AC unit’s manufacturer instructions or the owner’s manual. If you don’t have either on hand, then you can simply remove the filter and measure it yourself, taking care to do so as precisely as possible.
2. Note MERV Ratings to Find The Best AC Air Filter
Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) ratings are an HVAC industry standard for measuring the efficiency of an AC unit filter when it comes to removing particles from the air.
The higher the rating, the greater percentage of airborne particles they can stop. The lower the rating, the more often you will need to replace a dirty AC filter, although lower also means cheaper.
3. Aim For Thicker
MERV rating aside, the thicker an AC filter, the more effective it will be at blocking airborne particles. This is because thickness allows for more layers, also ensuring the filter itself will last longer. Browsing an online site like discountfilters.com can allow you to search for air filters by thickness.
4. Be Conscious of Material
Sure, some material (like media) will inherently have higher MERV ratings than others (like fiberglass). However, apart from that, you should decide whether you want a filter made of disposable or washable material. Disposable will need recurring replacements, whereas washable material can be reused after an AC filter cleaning.
5. Stay Alert After Replacement
It’s true that, as a rule of thumb, it is recommended that you replace your air filter every month. However, as material and MERV ratings can so often vary, there are other ways you can observe when it’s time for an AC filter change.
For example, if your energy bill is going up, family members’ allergies are heightening, or AC is distributing unevenly through your home, then your filter may likely need replacement or attention.
Keep Your Home In Tiptop Shape By Staying In The Know
Finding the best AC air filter is only one simple step in keeping your home running at its best and healthiest. Staying in the know is the easiest way to continue saving money and stress!The higher the rating, the greater percentage of airborne particles they can stop. The lower the rating, the more often you will need to replace a dirty AC filter, although lower also means cheaper.
Keep up-to-date with Time Business Idea for more of the latest in health, technology, business, and more!
