AC filters suffer in silence because no one really thinks about them since they do not make noise or make noise. However, they are an important part of your AC system because they help keep your equipment clean and debris-free, but they are also helpful in keeping your indoor air clean by capturing particles such as pollen, dust, animal dander, and mold spores.

Similar to any filter, they have to be regularly changed every 1 to 3 months. Springtime is ideal when it comes to replacing them because of winter weather, which means closed homes and the air is recirculating. If you buy the right filter, you can also avoid having to contact AC repair services too often.

Know the Dimensions of Your AC

This is the very first consideration you need to make; you should check the owner’s manual in order to identify which filters can match your unit. If there is no manual, you should safely take out the air filter from your AC unit and take note of the dimensions. For instance, 20 x 25 inches or it can be 20 x 16 inches. These are common lengths and height dimensions.

AC Filter Types

• Flat panel – This type of standard filter features polyester mesh or fiberglass. There are cardboard frames surrounding the filter with a flat sheet material. These are economical sheets and they remove about 10% of airborne particles. Replacements are necessary once a month.
• Electrostatic filters – The media found in this filter utilizes electrostatic, which draws in loose particles and allergens. There is a charge created when air moves through the material layers. This type is the most expensive, but it lasts about one year.
• Extended surface filters – These filters can feature synthetic materials or blends of cotton polyester. The material is folded and there are pleats, which can improve filtration since there is the additional surface area for trapping particles. This kind removes about 35% to 40% of airborne pollutants. Extended ones can last about 2 to 4 months.
• HEPA Filters – HEPA filters are the most expensive because they take out about 99% of irritants present in the air and they are especially great for people who have severe allergies or for hospital use. There is a disadvantage to their great efficiency – they can restrict airflow and cause damage to your HVAC system.

Washable AC Filters

Disposable filters must be checked monthly in the heating and cooling months. You can also invest in a washable filter that provides longer service. This eco-friendly choice must be replaced once a year, which reduces the waste linked with the typical filters. A monthly check will let you be sure that the filter is functional and clean.

Rating

The minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) ratings were implemented by the HVAC industry and it is used as a standard in order to define the filter’s capacity to capture airborne particles present in the air. You will find air filters with MERV ratings. Higher ratings mean finer filtration. While the high-rated filters are more expensive, the air quality improvement might be worth it. Other companies utilize their own system ratings and in general, a higher rating means more filter is going to capture while it passes through.

The Material

The material that the AC filter is made of should be a consideration too. You will find filters that are more efficient than the others. Even if you have to spend a bit more initially, it will be worth it in the long run.

If you need to have your AC unit check, you can contact AC repair services Vienna VA.