Heating and cooling consume a big part of your utility bill. But it’s a small thing, the air filter, that keeps the entire system humming along.
A dirty filter restricts the air flow into your HVAC systems air handler, causing it to work harder to cool or heat your home.
If this continues, your air conditioner’s cooling coil will eventually freeze, causing the compressor to fail.
If your air conditioner isn’t in warranty, prepare for an expensive repair bill—between $400-$1550 (depends on who’s installing it, and the size and brand of your air conditioner).
If you’re getting low airflow, check the air filter—a clogged filter can cut airflow to a trickle
It’s best to change your air filter every month or two, especially if you have pets or live in a high-pollen area. Air filters are generally inexpensive, and changing air filter is a simple task that doesn’t require a professional hand. In most cases, you should simply be able to slide the old filter out and slide a new one in.
Check your unit’s documentation to determine what size of filter you need, and what minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) range the unit should fall into. A high MERV filter with a very tight mesh may be too much for some units, resulting in a situation a lot like a clogged air filter, even just after you’ve changed it.
What do MERV ratings mean?
Allergies, pets, odors and smoking all can greatly affect the quality of your indoor air. There are some air filters to help you breathe better air inside your home based on your specific needs.
MERV 8: The most basic air filter a homeowner will need is a MERV 8. A MERV 8 filter offers excellent air filtration for their home. A MERV 8 air filter would be good for a family that doesn’t smoke, doesn’t have pets, and doesn’t have bad allergies.
MERV 11: People with pets and/or light allergies, would greatly benefit from a more advanced filtration level called a MERV 11. A MERV 11 filter reduces pet dander, dust, pollen and other particles that are present in your home.
MERV 13: A MERV 13 air filter however will capture even smaller dust particles, dirt, pollen, mold spores, pet dander and more from your home’s air. A MERV 13 air filter is great for people with regular allergies and who own multiple pets. The MERV 13 filter is typically more expensive and will also put more strain on your HVAC system, however the high quality filtration you will get will be well worth it.
To learn more about how to change your air filter, as well as what the MERV rating system means for you and other indoor air quality solutions you should be aware of, contact TCOOL Services Heating & Air at 404-345-4545 or Email: [email protected].
