As an experienced HVAC professional, I have witnessed firsthand the significant impact that a good furnace air filter can have on indoor air quality (IAQ). Not only does it protect your furnace from damage, but it also effectively stops harmful particles such as biological contaminants, pet dander, dirt, and mold spores from circulating in your home. In contrast, cheaper air filters can only trap larger particles like sand, grit, hair, and dust bunnies. There is a common misconception that cheaper is always better when it comes to furnace filters. However, this is not necessarily true.
While a cheaper fiberglass filter may seem like a more cost-effective option, it is just as capable of preventing larger particles from entering your furnace as a more expensive pleated filter. In fact, many HVAC professionals follow the general rule of “the cheaper, the better” when it comes to furnace filters. If you are in the market for air filters online, I highly recommend looking for retailers that allow you to customize the quantity to get exactly what you need. This way, you can ensure that you have the right size and type of filter for your specific furnace. To truly understand the difference in quality between a pleated and fiberglass filter, try holding each one against your mouth and breathing through it.
You will immediately notice that it is much harder to breathe through a pleated filter due to its superior filtration capabilities. Whether you choose a disposable or washable filter, it is crucial to pay attention to the direction of the air flow indicated by an arrow on the filter. If you opt for a washable filter, be sure to dry it thoroughly before reinstalling it to prevent moisture from entering your ducts. While disposable fiberglass filters may be cheaper, they need to be checked and replaced more frequently than pleated filters due to their lower quality. While some washable filters may not be much better than disposable ones, high-end permanent filters can compete with the more common disposable pleated filters. These permanent filters are made with a solid aluminum or plastic frame and are more efficient at filtering air.
No matter which type of filter you choose, the most important thing you can do is change it regularly. The cheapest filters are typically made of spun fiberglass, which is not as effective at filtering air as materials like paper, cotton, or polyester. Once you have determined the correct filter size and MERV rating for your furnace, it is time to replace the old filter. While pleated filters may clean air better than fiberglass ones, there are other options available that can effectively clean air without putting additional strain on your system. To replace the filter, simply open the door of the filter compartment (located between the air intake and the furnace), remove the old filter, and dispose of it properly.
It is important to handle the old filter delicately as it will likely be full of dust. I have had customers who have accidentally purchased the wrong size filter, and I always do my best to help them get the right one. It is crucial to use the correct size and type of filter for your furnace to ensure optimal performance and indoor air quality.