What To Know
- In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different types of air filters and help you choose the right one for your home.
- By following the tips in this guide, you can choose an air filter that will help you improve the air quality in your home and protect your family’s health.
- The higher the MERV rating, the more effective the air filter is at removing particles from the air.
The air we breathe inside our homes is often more polluted than the air outside. This is because our homes are sealed up tight to keep out the cold and heat, which also traps in pollutants like dust, pollen, pet dander, and smoke.
Air filters can help to remove these pollutants from the air, making it healthier for you and your family to breathe. But with so many different types of air filters on the market, it can be hard to know which one to choose.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different types of air filters and help you choose the right one for your home.
Types of Air Filters
There are three main types of air filters:
- Fiberglass filters are the most common type of air filter. They are made of fiberglass fibers that are bonded together with a resin. Fiberglass filters are inexpensive and effective at removing large particles from the air, such as dust and pollen. However, they are not as effective at removing smaller particles, such as smoke and bacteria.
- Pleated filters are made of pleated paper or fabric. They have a larger surface area than fiberglass filters, which allows them to trap more particles. Pleated filters are more expensive than fiberglass filters, but they are also more effective at removing smaller particles.
- HEPA filters are the most effective type of air filter. They are made of a fine mesh of fibers that trap even the smallest particles, such as smoke, bacteria, and viruses. HEPA filters are the most expensive type of air filter, but they are also the most effective.
How to Choose the Right Air Filter
The best air filter for your home will depend on your specific needs. If you have allergies or asthma, you will need an air filter that is effective at removing small particles. If you have pets, you will need an air filter that is effective at removing pet dander.
Here are a few things to consider when choosing an air filter:
- The size of your home. The larger your home, the more powerful air filter you will need.
- The number of people in your home. The more people in your home, the more pollutants will be generated.
- The presence of pets. Pets can shed a lot of dander, which can trigger allergies and asthma.
- The presence of smokers. Smoke is a major source of indoor air pollution.
Where to Buy Air Filters
You can buy air filters at most home improvement stores, hardware stores, and online retailers. When buying air filters, be sure to choose the right size for your furnace or air conditioner.
How to Install Air Filters
Installing air filters is a simple process. Most air filters are simply inserted into a slot in your furnace or air conditioner. Be sure to read the instructions on the air filter package before installing it.
How Often to Change Air Filters
You should change your air filter every 1-3 months. If you have allergies or asthma, you may need to change your air filter more often.
Benefits of Using Air Filters
There are many benefits to using air filters in your home, including:
- Improved air quality
- Reduced allergies and asthma symptoms
- Reduced risk of respiratory infections
- Increased energy efficiency
Key Points: Making the Right Choice
Choosing the right air filter for your home is an important decision. By following the tips in this guide, you can choose an air filter that will help you improve the air quality in your home and protect your family’s health.
What You Need to Learn
Q: What is the difference between a MERV 8 and a MERV 11 air filter?
A: MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) is a rating system that measures the effectiveness of air filters. The higher the MERV rating, the more effective the air filter is at removing particles from the air. A MERV 8 air filter is effective at removing large particles, such as dust and pollen. A MERV 11 air filter is effective at removing smaller particles, such as smoke and bacteria.
Q: How often should I change my air filter?
A: You should change your air filter every 1-3 months. If you have allergies or asthma, you may need to change your air filter more often.
Q: Can I wash my air filter?
A: No, you should not wash your air filter. Washing an air filter can damage the filter and reduce its effectiveness.
