HVAC filters capture and remove impurities such as pollen and dust from your HVAC system. They’re important for keeping your system clean and running efficiently – and for maintaining good air quality in your home. Here’s what to know about residential and commercial air filters.
How do I change the air filter in my HVAC?
Changing an air filter is a simple DIY task that most homeowners can manage, and only takes a few minutes. Turn off your system, locate your filter, then remove and replace the existing filter with a new filter of the right size and shape. The dimensions will be written on the filter. If your system has a reusable filter, wash and dry it, then replace it. Once done, turn your system back on.
Residential air filters can be purchased at your local hardware or home improvement store, or even at larger grocery stores.
In commercial situations, have a maintenance expert or HVAC professional replace your filter according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Should you use cheap or more expensive air filters?
In general, you get what you pay for. More expensive filters have more pleats, meaning that they’re able to catch more particles, resulting in better air quality in the home or building. They also last longer. Cheap filters ensure that particles don’t get into your system – but have less impact on the air quality in your building, and typically have to be replaced more often.
Is it true that it’s bad to use expensive air filters in my HVAC?
No. Typically, the more expensive the filter, the better the filtration. If you’re concerned about cost, look at the manufacturer’s recommendations to confirm that the filter meets your needs – a small residence with no pets or children might need less filtration than a family with pets and household allergies. Consider the lifespan for the filter as well, as sometimes a cheap filter can end up being more expensive in the long-term.
Can I can clean my disposable air filters?
Reusable filters are made from durable materials and are designed to be cleaned and reused. However disposable filters are made from soft, flexible materials that are not designed to be washed. Washing them can cause the filter to break down and can invite mold or mildew into your system. Simply replace your air filters instead.
Is it OK to run HVAC without a filter?
Your HVAC system can run without a filter, but we highly advise against it. While you can get away with running your system this way for a very short period of time, even 6-8 hours can result in damage to your system – while also affecting the quality of air in your home. Have back-up filters in the home to avoid this situation.
Is no air filter better than a dirty one?
Never run your HVAC without a filter in place. Running your system with no air filter can cause serious problems, as this means that dust and grime can build up in the system’s internal components. Even a dirty filter will still filter out particles – although not as effectively as a new one. Some filters can be cleaned, while other disposable filters will need to be replaced.
How often should you change your HVAC air filter?
How frequently you should change your HVAC filters depends on a few factors: the type and brand of filter, whether you have pets in the building, how often you use your system, and whether anyone in the building suffers from allergies.
In general, replace 1” and 2” air filters every 1-3 months; 3” and 4” filters every 6-9 months, and 5” or 6” filters every 9-12 months. Check the recommendations on your air filter packaging in case a different schedule is recommended.
Commercial filters should generally be replaced quarterly, and more often in businesses that produce high levels of dust or debris.
What are the types of filters in an HVAC system?
There are several types of air filters:
- HEPA filters. These are the most efficient filters and can trap almost all particles, resulting in system protection and improved air quality. They are most commonly used in commercial settings, and do not typically fit residential systems.
- Reusable filters. These are filters that can be washed and then reused. They are usually more expensive than disposable filters, but are not necessarily as efficient as pleated media filters.
- Flat-paneled fiberglass filters. These are cheap filters designed to keep dust and grime from getting into your system, but do not have much impact on the quality of the air in your home. They need to be regularly replaced.
- Pleated media filters. These are disposable filters that offer better filtration and can result in improved air quality. They need to be regularly replaced, but may last longer than fiberglass filters.
What happens if you don’t clean your HVAC’s air filters?
If your HVAC system has a reusable filter, you’ll need to clean it regularly to ensure good performance. If you don’t clean your filter, it will no longer be able to properly do its job. Dust and debris will start building up inside your system, affecting airflow and potentially causing serious damage.
Could a dirty furnace filter cause a higher gas bill?
In short, yes. A dirty filter affects system performance, resulting in efficient running – and potentially more expensive gas bills. Replacing your filters is a cheap fix that can keep your system running properly, and your bills where they should be.
If your residential or commercial HVAC system doesn’t seem to be running at maximal efficiency, or you’re concerned that a dirty filter might have caused damage, talk to the team at Shaw. We’ll assess your system to ensure that it’s working properly, and will even walk you through how and when to change your filters.