Shopping for a new air filter can become quite overwhelming if you don’t know what you’re looking for. Not all filters are the same. Some have much denser materials that can block airflow. Your goals for air quality or better efficiency will greatly impact which filter is the right choice for your home. Let’s take a close look at the different types and which kinds work best for various household needs and lifestyles.
What Are MERV Ratings?
MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) is a rating scale for air filters that showcases how well certain types can capture pollutants between .03 and 10 microns. Filters with higher MERV ratings capture more small particles such as dust, pollen, and mold spores. MERV ratings usually range from 1 to 20. For most residential homes, a filter with a rating between 8 and 13 is ideal. Filters with a rating higher than 13 are usually reserved for hospitals and commercial settings.
Here are the average MERV ratings for different types of filters:
- Fiberglass: 1–4
- Pleated: 7–13
- HEPA: 17–20
- Electrostatic: 8–10 (can vary slightly depending on design and quality)
Best Filters for Allergy Reduction
If your goal is to reduce allergy or asthma symptoms, you’ll need a filter with a higher MERV rating. A lot of people opt for pleated filters because of their ability to trap fine particles and improve indoor air quality. As they reduce airborne allergens and get rid of irritants like dust and pet dander, you won’t breathe in as many triggers throughout the day.
HEPA filters are even better, but they’re only a good idea if they’re compatible with your HVAC system. Their dense structure can restrict airflow on certain models, which can make your system work harder and drive up energy costs. An experienced HVAC technician can check your system for compatibility.
Electrostatic filters are also good for allergies. They are reusable, meaning you can use them over and over, which reduces replacement costs. But you must make sure to clean them often. This is the only way they will continue to perform effectively and not become clogged.
Best Filters for Energy Efficiency
When better energy efficiency is your goal, you need a filter with a lower MERV rating. This is because higher-rated filters are much denser, meaning they reduce airflow. They work great for trapping small particles, but they can overwork the HVAC. Many experts recommend choosing a pleated filter with a MERV rating of 8 to 11 to achieve the best balance between air quality and system efficiency. Fiberglass filters can also boost efficiency, but they aren’t ideal for long-term use since they don’t trap as many pollutants and need frequent replacement.
Best Filters for Pets
Pets may bring a lot of love to your house, but they also leave behind hair, dander, and odors. You’ll need a filter with a rating of 8 to 13 to effectively trap pet hair and dander.
A lot of newer filters come with activated carbon to help absorb odors. They’re a great option if you have multiple pets in the house. As they trap pet-related particles and absorb unwanted smells, they reduce airborne allergens and make the home smell fresher and feel more comfortable.
Using a HEPA filter is a good idea if someone in the home has pet allergies. This type has a dense mesh and multiple layers that trap fine particles, like pet dander and dust mites. It can reduce allergic reactions by stopping common allergens from floating through the air.
Filter Replacement Guidelines
No matter the filter you choose, it’ll need regular replacements. If you neglect regular filter changes, it’ll make the air quality worse and cause efficiency issues with the HVAC.
Here are some simple filter replacement guidelines you can follow to keep your HVAC system running efficiently and your indoor air clean:
- Fiberglass filters: Replace every 30 days
- Pleated filters: Replace every 60 to 90 days, or more often if you have pets or allergies
- HEPA filters: Check manufacturer guidelines—some lasting 6–12 months but costing more
- Electrostatic filters: Clean monthly and replacing if they show signs of wear
Call Blind & Sons today if you have questions about choosing the right air filter for your home or if you’re looking for AC maintenance in Brunswick, OH.
