HVAC Filter Knowledge Base

You might already know that HVAC filters work to remove the dust and debris from the atmosphere of your home to help improve the overall air quality. What you might not know, however, is that the type of material that your filter is made out of also affects how effectively the filter removes pollutants from the air. Each furnace filter is rated on a MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) scale and, if the number is closer to 20, then the more effective it is. Though, different filter materials usually have different MERV ratings as well, as some are better are improving Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) than others. In this article, we take a look at the three main materials that...

From pollen to dust mites, your home falls prey to dozens of airborne contaminants that can cause allergic reactions. According to the Kids Health, more than 50 million Americans have some type of allergy. For adults and children, these contaminants further aggravate allergy or asthma symptoms, and perhaps one of the most common ways--not to mention the most effective-- to protect yourself and your home is through an air conditioner filter.   Different Material, Higher Price Scroll through the varying types of filters and you’ll find that price depends on two factors: materials used and particles repelled. An electrostatic filter, for example, provides a pricier alternative than fiberglass; however, the fiberglass cannot capture smaller particles like pollen. And even a...

When to Clean or Replace Furnace Filters Air filters are efficient products, but they do have a limited lifespan. Even if you choose a high-quality filter (as you should) it won’t last forever, and if you fail to change it in a timely fashion your indoor air quality—and the performance of your HVAC system—will suffer as a result. The same holds true if you have a permanent filter, which must be periodically removed and cleaned. It may last indefinitely, but if you neglect proper maintenance procedures it won’t perform up to an acceptable standard. But how, exactly, will you know when the time has come to clean or replace your current air filter? The answer depends, to some extent, on...

  When it’s time to replace your furnace filter, making a decision isn’t as easy as just buying the first filter you see. There are some major differences between different types of furnace filters that can play a big role in how effective they are in filtering out dirt, dust and other pollutants from your HVAC system. When you spend money on a Honeywell furnace filter, you want to know that you are getting the right filter for your home. Confused about which type of filter to get? Let Your Filter Connection break down the three main types of furnace filters.   Pleated (disposable): The most common furnace filters are the types of filters that simply catch large particles and...

There are several common air filter types which are made from a variety of materials. It’s beneficial for customers to take into consideration their specific needs when choosing a filter, as each kind functions uniquely and is ideal for different situations. Fiberglass or polyester: These filters are cost efficient and disposable, however, they don’t provide a great amount of protection against pollutants. They can be appropriate in certain situations, though. For example, a fiberglass air conditioner filter can be of use to a customer looking to simply protect their air unit from large particle debris. Washable and reusable: Because these filters can be cleaned, their lifespan is much longer. They’re also often size-adjustable. It’s important to note, however, it can...

As the seasons change, so do the harmful particles floating through the air. When shopping for a new furnace air filter, it’s useful to take into consideration the different particles for each season that may become problematic. The levels of contaminants in the air will vary with the changing temperatures throughout the year. A new filter specific to the season can help keep your home safe.   The information on a Honeywell furnace filter package will indicate the type of protection each kind of filter offers. For example, some are built to catch small particles such as bacteria and mold, while others trap large particles like dust and pet dander.   In warmer months, choosing a filter that’s designed to...

9 Common Replacement Home Air Filter Misconceptions Air filters are vital components of your HVAC system. To keep your furnace and air conditioning units working efficiently, the air filters need to be replaced regularly. When searching for the right replacement air filter, there are a number of factors to consider. In addition to the brand, the features of the air filter and your own unique health circumstances should be considered. To help you make the right choice when buying furnace filters, here are common misconceptions to avoid. 1. All Replacement Air Filters Are The Same A home air filter is just a simple filter and they all perform the same, right? Not even close. The overall air quality of your...

Winter is in full effect across most of the country, but there is still time to give your furnace a checkup before the season takes a turn for the worse. There are a few basic steps you can take to keep your system running efficiently during the winter time. A replacement air filter is one step, but you’re sure to see savings in your energy bill after you use these tips. Cleaning Coils Over time, it’s common for the evaporator and condenser coils to collect dirt that will reduce air flow. Layers of dust build up very quickly, so it’s crucial to check these coils throughout the year. Try to minimize dirt near the condenser coil, and remove any brush...

Written by: Your Filter Connection The air filter in your home has a key role in maintaining your HVAC system. Air conditioner techs tell us that replacing your home air filters once every three months is the key to maintaining a well-running HVAC unit. These filters are generally inexpensive, but there are many varieties on the market. While there are options to each variety, generally people choose between reusable and replaceable filters. The right choice for you depends on how often you plan to replace your filters and what you’re willing to pay. What Filters Do A replacement Honeywell air filter has two basic advantages to the home: it prevents particulates from clogging the system and it helps filter the...

Now that the holidays are here, you’ll want to make sure your forced-air system is heating your home the way it ought to. Keeping your space warm is also a matter of safety, as a poorly maintained system can cause a fire in the home, or make it harder for you to sleep Here are some tips to keep your home warm, and your forced-air system functioning safely. Have a Technician Switch the Pilot Light On Before you power your heating unit on for the year, have a technician switch on your pilot light and inspect your system. This will help you see what problems you’ll encounter without paying too much to do repairs. An inspector will point out things...