Choosing the Best Furnace Filter

Furnace Filter in Peoria, IL

Having a high-quality air filter in your furnace can ensure that you have clean and fresh air circulating throughout your home. There are a few things to consider when choosing a filter and several pros and cons to weigh.

Different Rating Systems

All filters come with an efficiency rating. The main rating system is the MERV number, which is somewhere between 1 and 20. MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value and is a measure of how many particulates a filter can remove from the air. You’ll want to get a filter that has a MERV number that is at least 10 to ensure high performance.

Understanding Different Types of Filters

There are several different styles of filters to choose from. Most furnaces take filters that are 1 inch thick. These filters need to be replaced every one to three months. Filters can come in pleated and non-pleated models, with pleated filters being more efficient at particle removal.

You can also choose between getting disposable or washable filters. Choosing to wash your filters as they get dirty can allow them to last longer.

Furnace Performance

Many high-efficiency filters can negatively affect the performance of your heater. Their increased efficiency levels can impede airflow through them and put a larger load on your furnace, leading to increased energy bills or reduced system life expectancy. Many heating systems can be adjusted to operate optimally with high-efficiency filters.

Contact Our Team Today

At Fritch Heating & Cooling, Inc., we’re dedicated to the complete satisfaction of each of our customers in Peoria, IL. Our team is ready to repair, replace, or maintain any make or model of heater or air conditioner. We’re also highly qualified to inspect, repair, and install mini-split systems and ductwork, and we also perform indoor air quality assessments. Our skilled technicians are fully licensed, bonded, and insured to serve the needs of both residential and commercial customers. To learn more about how we could help you keep your home safe and comfortable throughout the year, give the team from Fritch Heating & Cooling, Inc. a call today.