Unfortunately, there are no industry-wide standards for HVAC air filter sizing, which means finding the right filters can be a challenge. Some homeowners buy a filter that seems like it should be close enough and assume they’ll just have to make due, but that’s a mistake. Read on to find out why it’s so important to get the right custom air filters to learn why.
Size Matters
The HVAC air filter’s primary purpose is to trap dust, pollen, and other airborne particulates so they can’t circulate through the duct system and enter a home’s living spaces. The right air filters will also protect the HVAC unit itself by preventing airborne particles from coating the fan motor, coil, and drip pan. If the filter isn’t sized properly to the unit, it won’t be able to perform these vital functions efficiently.
Homeowners who install improperly sized filters will find that much of the air that should be traveling through the filter media actually escapes around the sides. Because it’s bypassing the filter, that untreated air could contain everything from dust to allergens and more.
Replacing the improperly fitted filter with a custom model will ensure a constant flow of treated air. Homeowners can learn more at Filter King about how to order custom air filters for their units.
Indoor Air Quality Is Important
Some homeowners assume that it doesn’t really matter if their improperly sized standard filters allow some contaminants to get into their homes. What they don’t realize is that, over time, those airborne particles will have a dramatic negative impact on the household’s indoor air quality. Ensuring that all residents and guests have access to fresh, clean air that is free from contaminants can boost everyone’s health and may even improve their cognitive function, and installing custom filters is the best way to meet those vital goals.
For most households, properly fitted filters with mid-level MERV ratings of around eight will reduce airborne contaminants to a safe level. If there are people living in the home who struggle with asthma, allergies, or other underlying respiratory issues, upgrading to a more-efficient filter with a MERV rating of 11 to 13 may be a good idea. While MERV 8 filters work perfectly fine to get rid of pollen, dust, pet dander, and mold spores, MERV 13 filters can also remove virus carriers, bacteria, smoke, and microscopic allergens from the air to create a safer environment.
Custom Filters Can Improve HVAC Performance
While most homeowners’ primary goal in switching to properly sized custom air filters is to improve indoor air quality, they’ll also notice a second collateral benefit. The HVAC system will also run more efficiently if it isn’t exposed to a buildup of airborne particles, which means homeowners may notice lower energy bills and a less frequent need for repairs.
Sign Up for a Subscription Today
Once homeowners have figured out what dimensions and MERV ratings they need for their HVAC units, they can order filters online from a reputable vendor. The easiest way to stay on top of filter changes is to sign up for a subscription service or filter change reminders. Both of these solutions let homeowners place orders for quick delivery online in advance of each filter change, making it easier to stay on top of maintenance.
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