By Megan Vick
Even though the name says Fridge Filters, we love all types of filters! We get so many questions on a day-to-day basis about air filters, especially this time of year; we just couldn’t help compiling another great FAQ list for you!
1. Why Do I Need an Air Filter?
You need an air filter to help keep icky stuff out of your
indoor air. Numerous studies have shown many homes to have air quality that is
up to 5 times worse than outdoor air quality. The air circulating throughout
your home has pollutants from outside, like smog, pollen, smoke, and car
pollution. But your home air also has pollutants from inside, like pet dander,
smoke, dead skin cells, bacteria, and viruses. Air filters will help remove
these little things to make your breathing a bit easier.
2. Do I Need to Change My Air Filter?
You most certainly do! Most filter manufacturers have a recommended replacement time on their filters. Typically, filters need to be changed every month or every 3 months. By changing your air filter, you’re helping the air in your home to stay fresh and helping your air handler work efficiently, which saves you money.
3. How Can I Tell Which Size Filter I Need?
It’s quite easy! Most filters will have the size written on the edge of the filter. If you’re buying/building a home, your realtor/contractor will tell you what size you need. If you still can’t find out, you can measure your current filter to get an approximate size. Most filters come in standard sizes and are one inch thick.
4. How Can I Find Out Which Type of Filter I Need?
Filters come in many brands, many sizes, and many ratings. The best way to determine which type of filter is right for you is to look at your allergies and any possible air pollutants. There is a good rule of thumb to remember. When buying air filters, the higher the MERV rating, the more contaminants it will remove from your air. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to call 800-683-8353 or send us an email!
5. What Is A MERV Rating?
MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value and it was created to rate the effectiveness of air filters. The MERV system goes from 1 to 16, with 16 removing the most from the air.
6. What is a MPR rating?
MPR stands for Microparticle Performance Rating. This rating is through Filtrete. While it will not help you compare Filtrete filters to other brands, it will help you determine which Filtrete filter to purchase. It is intuitive in the way that the higher the MPR, the more micro-particles it will help remove. With a high MPR rated filter, you will see there is much more filter media packed into the same amount of space.
7. What Kind of Filter Media Do I Need?
There are 3 main types of filters for HVAC units: Fiberglass, Polyester and pleated, and HEPA filters. The most common are fiberglass and polyester/pleated because they are the most disposable of the filters. HEPA filters are great for those with severe allergies or respiratory issues; however they are more expensive and may restrict air flow in an HVAC unit. Be sure to check with an efficiency expert before using a HEPA filter in your home.
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