{"id":303,"date":"2024-06-11T14:51:14","date_gmt":"2024-06-11T18:51:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/blog\/?p=303"},"modified":"2024-09-16T15:02:33","modified_gmt":"2024-09-16T19:02:33","slug":"which-type-of-air-filter-will-last-the-longest","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/blog\/which-type-of-air-filter-will-last-the-longest","title":{"rendered":"Which Type of Air Filter Will Last the Longest?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Changing the ac <a href=\"https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/furnace-air-filters\/\">filters &amp; furnace filters<\/a> in the HVAC equipment in your home won\u2019t just make your home a safer place to play and rest; it will also save you money in the long run. Fresh filters are essential for the following reasons:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Cleaner Air:<\/strong> When you swap out your air filters at the right time, you can keep dust and other grime out of the air you breathe. According to the<a href=\"https:\/\/nchh.org\/information-and-evidence\/learn-about-healthy-housing\/health-hazards-prevention-and-solutions\/dust\/#:~:text=Health%20Impacts,in%20through%20windows%20and%20doors.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> National Center for Healthy Housing<\/a>, dust can aggravate respiratory ailments, such as allergies and asthma. Change your filters on a regular schedule to help keep you\u2014and your family\u2014healthy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Energy Efficiency:<\/strong> Clogged air filters require more energy to send air through your HVAC system. In fact, the<a href=\"https:\/\/www.energy.gov\/energysaver\/maintaining-your-air-conditioner#:~:text=A%20clean%20filter%20prevents%20the,its%20ability%20to%20absorb%20heat.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> Department of Energy<\/a> reports that regular air filter changes can reduce air conditioner energy consumption by 5% to 15%. As electric and oil prices continue to rise, it\u2019s important to save whenever you get the chance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Appliance Longevity: <\/strong>Dirty filters mean that your appliances have to work harder, which strains their mechanisms. When HVAC equipment breaks down, dirty filters are most often the guilty culprit. Swap filters proactively to avoid overheating, airflow problems, and premature mechanical wear.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>But how often do you need to change the air filters in your home for the best results? Which filters keep your air clean for longer, so you don\u2019t have to throw money in the trash alongside ineffective filters? <a href=\"https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/blog\/what-is-the-most-effective-type-of-air-filter\">What is the most effective type of air filter?<\/a> In this article, we explore the answers to these questions and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"335\" src=\"https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Which-Type-of-Air-Filter-Will-Last-the-Longest-.jpg\" alt=\"changing the hvac filter in your home helps the system last longer\" class=\"wp-image-316\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Which-Type-of-Air-Filter-Will-Last-the-Longest-.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Which-Type-of-Air-Filter-Will-Last-the-Longest--300x126.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Which-Type-of-Air-Filter-Will-Last-the-Longest--768x322.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What Is the Most Effective Type of Air Filter<\/strong><strong>?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are the most effective type of fiberglass air filters. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, HEPA filters have a worst-case efficiency rating of 99.97 for all particle sizes. In other words, these air filters trap nearly all mold, dust, pollen, bacteria, and other airborne grime. However, no true HEPA air filter is used in residential applications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Comparative effectiveness guidelines for air filter types focus on how efficiently they remove particulates from circulation. However, they don\u2019t include standards for comparing the removal of gasses or other pollutants. That being said, you can compare air filter options based on the following ratings:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Filter Performance Rating (FPR)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>When reviewing ratings, MERV is the industry standard for filtration air filter efficiency and effectiveness, while FPR also includes factors like filter lifespan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even when using the best options available, one of the most significant factors affecting air filter effectiveness is cleanliness. As particulates build up on a filter, both the filter and the air circulation equipment deteriorate at a higher rate. Refresh your air quality today with long-lasting air filters from<a href=\"https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/furnace-air-filters\/\"> Discount Filters<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Indoor Air Quality: Do HEPA Filters Last Longer<\/strong><strong>?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>HEPA filters last longer than many other types of air filters. Typically, it\u2019s best to change your air filters every 90 days. However, the HEPA filter lifespan can reach 6 to 12 months. If longevity is your goal, HEPA filters are often a great choice when compared to other options. Here\u2019s how long the average filter lasts before needing a change:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Fiberglass Filters:<\/strong> 1 Month<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pleated Filters:<\/strong> 3 Months<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Electronic Air Cleaner Filters:<\/strong> 6 Months<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>HEPA Filters:<\/strong> 12 Months<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Of course, environmental conditions like having lots of pet dander or an air purifier can impact air filter lifespan. The best way to have your air filter last longer is to use filters that are built to last!<a href=\"https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/search.php?keywords=HEPA\"> Explore your options for HEPA filters<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"335\" src=\"https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Do-HEPA-Filters-Last-Longer-.jpg\" alt=\"Do HEPA Filters Last Longer?\" class=\"wp-image-315\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Do-HEPA-Filters-Last-Longer-.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Do-HEPA-Filters-Last-Longer--300x126.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Do-HEPA-Filters-Last-Longer--768x322.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Which Furnace Filter Lasts the Longest<\/strong><strong>?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>While HEPA filters work well for air filtration systems, filters with high MERV or FPR ratings are best for furnaces. That\u2019s because HEPA filters often restrict too much airflow for heating systems, so they\u2019re best saved for a dedicated air filtration system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The longevity of the different types of furnace filters is affected by material type and thickness. The main types of furnace filters for your home include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Disposable Pleated Filters:<\/strong> Available in higher MERV ratings to filter out the majority of pollutants but should be changed every 90 days.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Disposable Fiberglass Filters:<\/strong> Cheap but low MERV ratings mean these filters won\u2019t cut it for families dealing with asthma and allergies.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Electrostatic Filters:<\/strong> Reusable but require regular washing and maintenance every 90 days.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>At<a href=\"https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/furnace-air-filters\/\"> Discount Filters<\/a>, we typically recommend pleated filters with a MERV efficiency rating of 11 for the best combination of effectiveness and value.<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"335\" src=\"https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/What-Filters-Do-HVAC-Techs-Recommend-.jpg\" alt=\"What Filters Do HVAC Techs Recommend?\" class=\"wp-image-314\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/What-Filters-Do-HVAC-Techs-Recommend-.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/What-Filters-Do-HVAC-Techs-Recommend--300x126.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/What-Filters-Do-HVAC-Techs-Recommend--768x322.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What Filters Do HVAC Techs Recommend<\/strong><strong>?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Current HVAC tech recommendations state that residents should use air filters with a MERV rating of 13 or higher, as endorsed by the<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ashrae.org\/technical-resources\/filtration-and-disinfection-faq\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioner Engineers<\/a>. To come to this recommendation, professionals cite<a href=\"https:\/\/www.iso.org\/standard\/57864.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> ISO 16890-1:2016<\/a>, which classifies systems based on particulate matter efficiency (OPM). According to these standards, an air filter or furnace filter with a MERV rating of 13 or higher is ideal for its effectiveness in reducing the presence of allergens and virus-containing droplets in the air.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While the benefits of a higher MERV rating are clear, they aren\u2019t always the best choice. Some HVAC systems can\u2019t accommodate these filters. In these cases, use filters with the highest MERV rating possible. HEPA filters are also highly recommended for air filtration, but they aren\u2019t always a good fit for an HVAC system because of how much they reduce airflow. When shopping for your next filter replacement, consider the MERV rating, the required filter size, and your budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>For High-Quality Air Filters that Last, Trust Discount Filters<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Choosing the right air filter\u2014and replacing it regularly\u2014can have a significant impact on the quality of life for you and your family. At Discount Filters, our team is here to help you make the best decision.<a href=\"https:\/\/help.discountfilters.com\/?_ga=2.258887882.1194049510.1715725362-1326236174.1715725362&amp;_gac=1.120721146.1715741861.CjwKCAjwl4yyBhAgEiwADSEjeBojVe95iBWTi8NU7zg-QHvDE5xO-70TFwAMyOZS0PwX8jnX_Kyh0RoC7N0QAvD_BwE\"> Give us a call<\/a> with any questions you have or<a href=\"https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/furnace-air-filters\/\"> browse our online store<\/a> for all your filtration needs. We\u2019re always happy to help!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Changing the ac filters &amp; furnace filters in the HVAC equipment in your home won\u2019t just make your home a safer place to play and rest; it will also save you money in the long run. Fresh filters are essential for the following reasons: But how often do you need to change the air filters [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":304,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[5],"class_list":["post-303","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog","tag-low-hanging-fruit"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/303","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=303"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/303\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":673,"href":"https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/303\/revisions\/673"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/304"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=303"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=303"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.discountfilters.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=303"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}