CHOOSE THE RIGHT AC FILTER

Once I go to my native “large field” dwelling enchancment retailer, I’m unusually drawn to the aisle the place they promote air-con filters. Generally I’m educated (or amused) by the huge assortment of AC filters. And, I’m typically distressed as I see folks go away the shop with a cheap filter that can price them lots of of {dollars} in AC repairs sooner or later.

Let’s take a look at just a few issues that can aid you make the appropriate alternative from the handfuls accessible:

Start with a Good Match

Almost each AC system is designed with a monitor for the filter. It might be within the blower unit, the ductwork or a grille. The proper dimension filter matches simply however snugly within the monitor, with out gaps the place air can bypass the filter. By no means accept a filter that’s ‘nearly’ the appropriate dimension. When doubtful, seek the advice of the proprietor’s guide or ask your service skilled.

In case your filter is in a grille, it may be irritating to seek out that ‘grille filter’ sizes differ from customary sizes. A 20 x 20 filter is not going to match a ‘20 x 20’ grille within the ceiling – shut, however not fairly. In the event you should pressure or bend the filter, it’s the flawed dimension. Huge-box shops hardly ever provide filters to not match correctly in your grille. The hassle and modest expense to get a filter with a correct match will repay in the long term. At Full Consolation, we might be glad that can assist you discover the appropriate dimension filter.

The Proper Filter Materials

One in all my first classes in filter choice got here from a person who had offered customized filters for a number of many years. I requested, “why not use the ‘rug’ filter that you would be able to minimize to dimension?” He picked up an ashtray and a rough blue filter and invited me to step exterior. He dumped the ashes on the filter and gave it one or two shakes – all the things went via the filter however the giant cigarette butts. “Air con contractors make some huge cash from these filters,” he stated. “Not from promoting the one-dollar filter, however lots of of {dollars} cleansing coils and blowers.” Lesson discovered. I don’t carry an ashtray, however I do inform people, “don’t purchase a filter you possibly can learn via.”

Examine the MERV

The Minimal Effectivity Reporting Worth (MERV) is a score of filter effectiveness. MERV scores vary from 1 to 16. The upper quantity signifies the filter will take away smaller particles.

Filters with a MERV from 12 to 16 are sometimes reserved for pc areas and clear rooms. Filters rated 1 to 4 MERV are of little profit. The simplest for normal family use are pleated filters within the 7 to 12 MERV vary. You would possibly assume the upper MERV can be beneficial in each case. However larger MERV can limit airflow and injury the air conditioner blower fan. Cooling and water drainage issues can even come up.

Think about Deep-Pleated

In case your setting, well being, and luxury require a extremely efficient filter, I recommend you contemplate a deep-pleated filter. In our dwelling, we’ve got a canine and allergy symptoms. Surrounded by pine bushes, palms, grass, and an unpaved street there are plenty of airborne particulates. Consequently, we use a MERV 16 carbon-pleated filter. However the 5-inch deep pleats present practically 60 sq. toes of filter floor in a 20 x 20 filter. The filter could be very ‘dense’ however the air conditioner can breathe simply (and so can I) due to the massive filter space. What’s extra, I solely want to alter the filter annually and the coils are nonetheless clear after 4 years.

Within the earlier weblog, I discussed efficiency as an optimum stability of price, consolation, and comfort. These filters are a bit pricey, however consolation and comfort are wonderful. In my dwelling, the MERV 16 deep-pleated filter is the best.  

No matter your property consolation wants, Full Consolation is right here that can assist you. A part of our service helps choose the efficient filter that can present you the most effective stability of price, consolation, and comfort. Name us as we speak at (561) 529-6262 or go to our web site at www.mycompletecomfort.com.