Choosing the Right Air Filter for Your HVAC System | Tips from Your Plano, TX Heating and Air Conditioning Repair Service Provider
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Air filters are the most integral part of the HVAC system. Air filters allow your HVAC systems to provide clean and cool air during hot summers. Cleaning and replacing air filters ensures the long term efficiency of your HVAC systems. But changing air filters is not always a DIY job. It requires assistance from heating and air condition repair professionals.
However, choosing a heating and air conditioning repair professionalis difficult. Given the number of companies offering similar services, the choice for the right heating and air conditioning repair professionalbecomes tough. But only a trained professional can guide you about the right type of air filter for your home in Plano, TX.
Types of Air Filters
Below are some of the most common types of air filters.
Fiberglass Air Filters
Fiberglass is the most extensively used air filters. They are the least expensive and disposable air filters available in the market. Heating and air conditioning repair professionals often recommend the use of this type of air filter because it works better for protecting the air conditioning system. However, it is least effective against screening dust and pollutants in the air.
Pleated Filters
This type of air filters are made from polyester ball or cotton ball. The more the pleats the more effective the filters is. Pleated filters work best in those areas where there is more dust. This type of filters are very effective against dust and other heavy air particles. Since Plano, TX is a dusty area they are very effective. But there is always a cost associated. The more the pleats in the air filter, the more expensive they are.
Washable Air Filters
Because of the plastic body, washable or reusable air filters last longer than non-washable air filters. If you purchase 5 disposable air filters in six months, you just need one washable air filter which can last for 5 years. Although, they cost more than disposable ones, they end up saving you money in the long run. Additionally, they also save you time and are easy to remove, clean and reuse. The one thing you need to be careful of, however, is to ensure that the filter is dried properly after washing as damp filters might become breeding grounds for bacteria and mold.
Electrostatic Air Filters
Electrostatic air filters use electrostatic charge to attract dust particles. As a result, dust particles and other air borne particles do not circulate in the house. Various filters of this type are washable and can be used for a longer period of time. Others need to be replaced after a certain period of time.
HEPA Filters
HEPA Is the acronym of High Efficiency Particular Air filters. This type of air filter is ideal for people prone to allergies and respiratory conditions. HEPA filters can screen up to 99.97% contaminants. This is the reason why the US Department of Emergency recommends the use of this type of air filters.
UV Filters
UV filters are considered to be most efficient when it comes to bacteria and viruses in your home. The technology is designed to kill the microorganisms but is less efficient when screening dust and other pollutants. Heating and air conditioning repair professionals often do not recommend this type of air filters for HVAC systems in your house.
The Right Air Filter for You
Choosing the right air filter for your HVAC system depends upon many factors. Some of these factors are:
Filter Size
The primary consideration for choosing air filters for your HVAC system is the size of the filter. If you contact heating and air conditioning repair services and the professional suggests air filter replacement, simply check the label of your existing filter. Air filters in home are usually 1 inch thick but height and width dimensions vary.
Usage of HVAC System
How frequently you use your HVAC system determines the type of air filter you need. It also determines how often you need to replace your air filters. For a typical suburban home, you need to change the air filter once every 90 days. If you are not using your HVAC system very often, you might not need air filter replacement once every 90 days.
In case you need heating and air conditioning repairthe technician would recommend whether the existing air filters need to be replaced or not.
MERV Rating
A technical aspect of air filters is their MERV rating. This helps the users understand how well the filter can hold contaminants under the least efficient conditions. Filters with a higher MERV number indicate better filtration efficiency. Filters with higher MERV ratings are also more expensive. MERV ranges between 1 and 16. The default choice of most HVAC systems for air filters is MERV between 6 and 8. A heating and air conditioning repairprofessional can further guide you about the MERV rating when considering an air filter replacement.
If you are planning to change the air filters in your HVAC system, contact One Hour Air Conditioning and Heating. We offer all types of heating and air conditioning repair solutions in Plano, TX. Whether you need air filter replacement or service for your HVAC system, our professionals are available 24/7 to meet all your heating and air conditioning repair needs in the Plano, TX area. To know more about our expertise call now at 817-283-6911.