Regular air filter changes are essential for keeping your home's HVAC system clean and efficient, as well as for keeping energy bills low. Clogged air filters are one of the most common causes of air conditioning problems, so it's important to understand MERV ratings when selecting the best filter for your system. A higher MERV rating does not always mean that a filter is the best choice for your furnace. At Air Engineers Service Experts, we help Jacksonville homeowners make informed decisions about their HVAC systems.
We recommend inspecting your air filter once a month and replacing it if you can't see the filter material through the dust. Filters with MERV ratings from 9 to 12 are the best choice for residential air conditioning systems, and if your family has allergies or respiratory issues like asthma, you may want to invest in filters with higher MERV ratings. Having the right MERV rating is essential for ensuring that your air is properly filtered without overloading your air conditioning system. MERV ratings indicate how effective an air filter is at reducing particles and contaminants in the air.
For example, 3M filters have a microparticle performance rating (MPR) and Home Depot uses a filter performance rating scale (FPR). With so many filter types and options available, it can be difficult to choose the right one - but manufacturers have made it easier by taking the guesswork out of buying filters. There are several types of filters you can use, and it can be hard to decide which one is best for you. The main purpose of these filters is to provide minimal protection against dust, and they must be replaced more often than other filters.
A significant percentage of HVAC system failures can be attributed to occupants not replacing their filters on a regular basis. The MERV system was developed by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) to measure filter effectiveness. The highest MERV ratings (up to 1) correspond to filters that can eliminate bacteria, droplets from coughing or sneezing, paint pigments suspended in the air, and more. To keep dirty filter particles from dispersing through the air, keep a plastic bag handy when replacing them.
