Does Air Filter Quality Really Make a Difference?

Contrary to popular belief, the main purpose of an air filter is not to purify the air. However, a standard filter is not enough to ensure the health and comfort of your family, friends, and other guests. It is wise to invest in the most efficient air filter you can afford. Not only do these filters allow people to breathe easier, but they can also reduce odors and make your home a more pleasant place to live.

If you want to purify the air in your home, consider adding an air purifier. A secondary benefit of a good air filter is improved Indoor Air Quality (IAQ), which means that everyone in the household can breathe better. High-quality air filters can stop biological contaminants, pet dander, dirt, mold spores, and other pollutants. On the other hand, cheap air filters can only stop the largest particles such as sand, hair, and dust.

Heating and cooling are likely to make up a significant part of your utility bill. But one small thing that can help keep your system running efficiently is an air filter. A dirty filter can restrict airflow, preventing the system from working as it should and eventually leading to equipment failure. If you have little airflow, check the air filter since a clogged filter is one of the most common causes.

These filters will protect your HVAC unit from dust and dirt that could damage it while allowing air to flow freely. The best air filters trap indoor pollutants such as dust, pet dander, and pollen, helping to clean the air in your home. If you want to clean the air as it flows through your HVAC system, you should consider installing a whole-house air purifier or ultraviolet light inside your HVAC unit. If you can find a reusable filter that captures the types of contaminants you need for your family, then you could pay more money upfront but ultimately save money in the long run.

Air filters are important for everyone but especially for those suffering from allergies or respiratory diseases such as asthma and hay fever. Compared to cheaper basic filters available, medium-efficiency MERV filters such as the Nordic Pure MERV 12 can greatly reduce airborne dust, mold spores, pollen and even smoke which can help alleviate respiratory ailments according to an NIH review. Regularly replacing your air filter is the best thing you can do to keep your HVAC system running smoothly. If you're worried about allergens, pets that shed a lot of fur or indoor odors then consider using more expensive or professionally installed disposable permanent air filters. Air filters generally come in a range of standard sizes with some that can be adapted to fit different size filter housings or return air vents.

There is no oven air filter in your system to improve the air in your home; its function is to protect your oven from dust and dirt that could damage it. Some washable filters aren't much better but high-end permanent filters can compete with very common disposable pleated filters which are available in a range even reaching MERV 12 or higher. Air filters are also important for people who live in highly polluted areas because they can filter out harmful contaminants from the air. In fact, there are many different types of air filters available and choosing the right one can make a real difference to the lifespan of your HVAC system.