The American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioner Engineers (ASHARE) recommends a MERV 6 or higher. Most people go with a MERV 8 filter. Most residential areas can remove contaminants with MERV 8 to MERV 13, while most hospitals use MERV 14 to MERV 20.
Does it matter what AC filter you use?
So, what should you do? If your AC system only accepts a one-inch thick filter, using an inexpensive MERV-5 or -6 fiberglass or pleated filters and changing them frequently is your best bet. These filters will not help much with indoor air quality but should help to protect your equipment.
Which filter is used in AC?
HEPA filter
Do air filters really make a difference?
There is very little medical evidence to support that air purifiers directly help improve your health or alleviate allergies and respiratory symptoms. That's due in part to the fact that it is difficult to separate the effects of known air-quality pollutants in your home from other environmental and genetic factors.
Are cheap air filters any good?
Cheap fiberglass filters are designed to stop dust, debris and hair from gunking up the system. While they do little to filter out allergens and other irritants, using them keeps your HVAC system clean and efficient. They can add more resistance to airflow, which makes the system more expensive to operate.
Are higher quality air filters worth it?
More expensive filters like Pleated Residential filters filter out dust mites, pollen, mold and pet dander and even bacteria and so are worth the money especially for those with severe allergies. HEPA filters filter bacteria and viruses and are worth the extra money for those with respiratory conditions like emphysema.
Do expensive air filters restrict airflow?
Does Increased MERV Decrease Air Flow? While those high MERV filters are great at filtering debris and cleaning the air in your home, they reduce the air pressure in your duct system. This could potentially raise your energy bills and take a toll on your furnace or air conditioning unit.
What is a good air filter brand?
Best Overall Air Purifier: Blue Pure 211+ Air Purifier. Best Value Air Purifier: Levoit VeSynch Core 400S. Best Air Purifier for Smoke: Dyson Pure Cool Air Purifier and Tower Fan. Best Air Purifier for Allergies: Honeywell True HEPA Allergen Remover Air Purifier.Dec 7, 2021
Do premium air filters make a difference?
Expensive air filters give you more surface area to filter particulate matter. All dimensions being equal, a filter with a higher MERV rating and more pleats per inch will have the same or better air flow than the same filter with a lower MERV rating and fewer pleats.
What is the best rating for air filters?
The higher the MERV rating, the more efficient the filter. The American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioner Engineers (ASHARE) recommends a MERV 6 or higher. Most people go with a MERV 8 filter.