So far as
home improvement equipment goes, furnace filters are true one of the least, um…
exciting. There’s none of the risk and raw effectiveness of power tools, none
of the visual impact of absolutely mitered crown molding, and definitely none
of the support that accompanies large investments like new windows or new
roofing.
But there can be huge impact even in small things, and locating the correct furnace filter can not only save cash, but also enhance air quality. Initially, filters were designed to shield the moving parts of the furnace itself, but thanks to technological progress, filters now prevent dangerous particles from cycling back into the air that you just breathe at home.
Below are five common choices, accessible in all Filter sizes and budgets. The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values (MERV) scale rates the efficacy on a scale of 1-20.
Disposable fiberglass – this is the alternative that comes to mind when you believe “furnace filter.” Created from 1″-thick spun fiberglass, it does little more than prevent bigger particles like dust, lint, and debris from gunking up the body. MERV rating: 2-3, price: $1-2
Experts: Quite cheap, good for renters and those without allergies or asthma
Disadvantages: Has little to no effect on cleaning the atmosphere
Disposable pleated – this popular alternative, made from polyester or cotton paper, can remove some little particles like spores and mites, but needs to be changed often to prevent clogging and taxing your HVAC system. MERV rating: 6, price: $4-5
Pros: Comparatively cheap, can be made from green stuff, blocks some little particles
Disadvantages: Can add more resistance to air flow, making your system more expensive to work
But there can be huge impact even in small things, and locating the correct furnace filter can not only save cash, but also enhance air quality. Initially, filters were designed to shield the moving parts of the furnace itself, but thanks to technological progress, filters now prevent dangerous particles from cycling back into the air that you just breathe at home.
Below are five common choices, accessible in all Filter sizes and budgets. The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values (MERV) scale rates the efficacy on a scale of 1-20.
Disposable fiberglass – this is the alternative that comes to mind when you believe “furnace filter.” Created from 1″-thick spun fiberglass, it does little more than prevent bigger particles like dust, lint, and debris from gunking up the body. MERV rating: 2-3, price: $1-2
Experts: Quite cheap, good for renters and those without allergies or asthma
Disadvantages: Has little to no effect on cleaning the atmosphere
Disposable pleated – this popular alternative, made from polyester or cotton paper, can remove some little particles like spores and mites, but needs to be changed often to prevent clogging and taxing your HVAC system. MERV rating: 6, price: $4-5
Pros: Comparatively cheap, can be made from green stuff, blocks some little particles
Disadvantages: Can add more resistance to air flow, making your system more expensive to work
Disposable electrostatic – includes self-charging electrostatic cotton or paper fibers that attract and trap small particles. MERV rating: 10, price: $10
Pros: Affordable in standard sizes; great for houses with kids, pets, or smokers
Disadvantages: Custom sizes are high-priced, high prices if replaced frequently over several years
Long-Term electrostatic – similar to their disposable brethren, these include self-charging cotton fibers that attract particles. Long-Term choices have a removable, machine-washable filter that can be removed and reused for 6 to 8 years. MERV rating: 8, price: $15-20
Pros: Little waste, more powerful than pleated; a great option if you use a popular size
Disadvantages: Less powerful than electrostatic, custom sizes are high-priced
High efficiency pleated – the granddaddy of furnace filters. These are made from full 4-5″ pleated artificial cotton, attached to quite stiff alloy grid to prevent escapes or fluttering. MERV: 14-16, cost: $100
Pros: Used in hospitals, these display out the tiniest of particles. May be beneficial for people with respiratory difficulties or autoimmune disorders
Disadvantages: High-Priced – $100 a year, and can simply be installed in special home as a result of thick size
For more on heat, venting, and air conditioning, you can search online
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