Your HVAC system is the single most expensive part of most homes. In addition to providing a healthier environment, your furnace filter is the simplest and least expensive way to keep your HVAC system running optimally. A MERV 11 “Allergy” pleated filter can keep your coils and duct work cleaner, allowing for better airflow, more efficient heating and cooling and reducing the risk of biological growth. But, if you leave that filter in too long, you could be costing yourself more than you realize.
ASHRAE Journal, (Vol. 47, No. 11, November 2005).
The cost of energy and maintenance is many times the cost of an air filter. It may feel like you’re getting more value from your filter by leaving it in longer, but the graph below tells the real story. Over time dust builds up and begins to clog your filter and it takes more energy for your HVAC system to push air through the filter.
Changing your filter on a regular basis will save energy and keep your system and home cleaner while reducing maintenance costs. Our “Allergy” pleated filters are designed to last three months, but changing every month or two can give you peace of mind that your system isn’t working too hard.
Furnace Filter Tip: Did you know that air filters are only tested for particles that are 10 microns and smaller (a human hair is about 35 microns thick)? That’s because particles larger than 10 microns are most likely to settle out of the air onto your floors and furniture as dust. One way to keep more of this dust out of your house is to run your HVAC system’s fan 24/7. That keeps more of the particles moving through the air and into your filter. Of course it’s important to use a good filter and the EPA says that recirculating your air through a good pleated filter can be almost as effective as a HEPA filter. We recommend AirX “Allergy” MERV 11 rated filter. It’s the best blend of efficiency, airflow and cost. As always shipping is free at Discount Filters. Use our furnace filter guide to find the right filter for your HVAC system.
