As an expert in the HVAC industry, I have been asked countless times about the universality of furnace filters. Unfortunately, the answer is no. Each furnace and HVAC manufacturer has their own unique filter size, making it crucial to find the right one for your specific system. Using the wrong size filter can lead to inadequate removal of harmful particles and even potential damage to your system. The same rule applies for air conditioning filters.
There are two types of manufacturers: those who specialize in refrigeration units (HVAC or air conditioning) and those who specialize in heating units (furnaces). Air conditioning filters come in a variety of sizes and are responsible for removing impurities from the air, providing us with clean and healthy air to breathe. Although it may seem like a small component of your HVAC system, the furnace filter plays a crucial role in maintaining its overall performance. That's why it's not only important to choose the right size filter, but also to regularly maintain it. One of the main reasons why furnace filters are not universal is due to their size and characteristics. However, they fulfill a vital function in the system by keeping dust, pollen, and other larger particles out of the air conditioning system.
This helps prevent damage and ensures that your system runs smoothly. To ensure optimal performance, it is important to regularly check and replace your furnace filter. As a general rule, pleated and fiberglass filters should be replaced every 90 days. Using a filter for longer than recommended can result in more dirt, dust, and allergens being trapped, which can clog the filter and decrease its effectiveness. While electrostatic filters may have a higher impact on your wallet due to their higher cost compared to fiberglass and pleated filters, they are more efficient at trapping small particles.
Filters with higher MERV values are also more effective at trapping particles, so it is important to choose the right filter for your specific needs. To ensure that your furnace filter is working at its best, it is recommended to change or clean it regularly. This can be done by checking the filter once a month and either cleaning a washable filter or replacing a disposable filter every 90 days. Permanent reusable filters, made with a solid aluminum or plastic frame, are also an option and are more efficient than disposable filters. If you want a thicker filter, you can opt to have an external filter grille installed by an HVAC professional. If you notice a lot of hair or dust around the filter opening, it is highly recommended to vacuum the outside of the furnace and through the filter opening before replacing the filter.
To replace the filter, simply open the door of the filter compartment (located between the air intake and the furnace), remove the old filter, and dispose of it properly. In general, filters with a MERV rating of 16 or lower are suitable for residential, commercial, and general hospital use. While some filters may claim to trap mold spores, it is more effective to have a professional remove any mold rather than relying on a filter to hide the problem. Electrostatic filters are another option for those looking for superior allergen filtration. These filters are even more effective than pleated filters at trapping allergens.
Due to their lower quality, disposable fiberglass filters should be checked and replaced more frequently than pleated filters. It is always best to confirm the MERV rating of your chosen filter to ensure that it is suitable for your specific furnace.