The subject of air filters for your furnace can be a confusing topic. You will discover they are sorted by different ratings, have diverse components, and come in distinct sizes. How is an average homeowner supposed to know which air filter is right for their HVAC unit? Which one is right for the dwelling as well as the furnace? With the appearance of COVID-19, it seems like a good time to review the options.  It is important, possibly now more than ever, to keep everything in your home clean and sanitized. Give your home a breath of fresh air by changing your air.

How Do Filters Differ

Filters are produced by a diverse list of suppliers.  They are also made with a varied range of materials which affects their cost, overall performance, and rating. Furnace filters are rated on the MERV scale (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value).  This scores a filter by its efficiency in removing particles in the air from 0.3 – 10.0 μm in size. Air filters that filter out the largest quantity of a certain type of particle have a higher rating.

Basic Types of Filters

• Fiberglass filters: These are a very affordable option. They typically have a MERV rating of 1 -4. Meaning, this type of material only filters out larger air particles.  So, if expense is the only factor you happen to be thinking of, they are a good alternative. Nonetheless, you have to remember that since they do not eliminate much besides dust, they are not recommended for homes with people with allergies. When you have no one in the household with allergies or immune concerns, these may be just an appropriate option for you.
• Electrostatic filters: If you are looking for a filter you don’t need to replace, this is it. Rather than replacing this type of filter, you simply clean it. Typically, this is done by spraying it thoroughly with a hose. They work by making the air particles passing through multiple layers of material have a positive charge.  This causes the particles to stick to the filter before they have a chance to be spread through your home. They’re 97% successful in removing particles from the air.  You won’t find a MERV rating for an electrostatic filter, however.  This is because they’re not a dry media filter.
• HEPA filters: HEPA stands for High Efficiency Particulate Air and was originally developed during World War II to safeguard researchers whilst working on the atomic bomb. They needed something that would filter out radioactive particles from the air. That might give you a good idea of just how much these filters can eliminate from the air! The ability to get rid of almost 100% of particulates that are 0.3 μm in size makes a HEPA the most effective filter type on the market. That particular size is known as the MPPS or Most Penetrating Particle Size. It has been found that particles both larger and smaller are much easier to capture with a filter.  So, if a filter can grab almost all of the particles that are this size, it is very efficient.  Keeping this in mind, the capability to remove this much out of the air also indicates they may considerably hamper air flow if your system is not designed to handle that type of filter.  You can always give us a call and we can help you determine what type of filter is best for you.
• Pleated filters: Normally in the range of 5-12 around the MERV scale, pleated filters end up right in the middle of the scale and make up pretty much the rest of the air filters on the market. A pleated filter is much more effective at removing air particulates than a non-pleated filter no matter the material. Their life span can be slightly longer than the significantly lower priced option also.  They are a great mid-range option that are usually appropriate for just about any system.

When you need a new air filter, the options can be overwhelming.  Thankfully, there are professionals like us who can help you navigate through all the alternatives.  Changing out your air filter is one of the easiest things you can do as a homeowner to help keep your HVAC system running efficiently.  It also helps keep your family healthy and helps reduce the symptoms of allergies and other respiratory issues when you select the right filter. Get in touch with us anytime and we can answer any questions you have!

Spring is finally here! While the extended daylight hours and rising temperatures are a welcome change for most, if you suffer from allergies, spring may not be your favorite season. Are you prepared? What steps have you taken to help protect you and your family members from air pollutants? Contact us today to discuss which air treatment option is best for your home.

One product we would like to highlight this month is the REME HALO® air purifier. This is an in-duct air purifier so it easily helps treat the air in your entire home. Any area that your air conditioner reaches, the REME HALO® can purify it. As stated on the product page the “REME HALO® in-duct air purifier produces Hydro-Peroxide plasma that is distributed through the air handler, through the duct system and into the conditioned living space. Unlike passive air technologies, which need pollutants to pass through the unit for purification or filtration, the REME HALO® in-duct air purifier sweeps through your home actively purifying pollutants at the source. In addition, the charged plasma induces particles to coagulate or stick together making them bigger and easier for your filter to catch.” Unlike other air purifiers, rather than waiting for the pollutants to make their way to the machine to be eradicated, the REME HALO® actively treats the offensive air particles where ever they are.

The REME HALO® reduces odor and all three types air pollutants in your home. Particulates that the REME HALO® easily treats include common allergy triggers like dust, dander, pollen, and mold. In addition, with all the talk of new viruses in the news lately, the REME HALO® kills up to 99% of bacteria, mold, and viruses. It now has a higher ionized hydroperoxide output allowing it to boast “faster kill rates for microbial contaminants in the air as well as on surfaces” according to the product description.

If you are interested in having a whole-home air purifier installed, now is the time! As always, we are available to go over any questions you may have and discuss what options are best for you. Make sure you give us a call to get on the schedule for installation today to make your homes air healthier!

Even the best-made machines eventually need to be upgraded.  Most heating and cooling systems last a minimum of a decade.  If well maintained, some can last up to 20+ years.  There are a few signs to be aware of that may indicate that it is time to repair or replace your HVAC system components.

• Long Running Time – If you notice that your furnace and / or air conditioner is running much longer than normal, it indicates that the system is having trouble running efficiently. The source of this problem could be the blower, the coils, or just an aged system.  As an HVAC system ages, it will have a harder time spreading hot or cool air throughout your home in order to maintain the set temperature.  This may be a fixable problem, but if your system is on the older side, it may be time to upgrade your unit(s).
• Age – Just as with most things, as your HVAC system ages, repairs may become more numerous and more expensive.  If you notice you are having to call for repairs fairly often, it may be time to think about replacing parts. At a certain point, it is more financially sound to invest in a new system than to constantly be paying for costly repairs.
• Noises – Sometimes a noisy system can be easily fixed by tightening some bolts or replacing some parts.  However, as your HVAC system ages, it has to work harder and harder to function and this can get pretty loud.  If you have had to place multiple service calls to take care of a noisy furnace or air conditioner, it may be time to replace instead of repair.
• Inefficiency – Higher than normal energy bills could be a sign that it may be time to replace your HVAC system.  As a system has to work harder to complete its job, you will notice an increase in your energy bills.   Occasionally, this may be a repairable problem, but more often it is a sign that it is time for an upgrade.

We’re sure you’ve noticed a theme in this article.  The factor that plays the largest role in deciding when to replace your HVAC system components is age.  On younger systems, most issues can be easily repaired.  However, as the furnace and air conditioner age, it can be very costly to keep them running efficiently.  One of the best things you can do for your HVAC system is to have an annual inspection done by one of our qualified technicians.  Identifying potential issues before they become problems and keeping all parts of your HVAC system in good running condition is important in maintaining efficiency. If you notice any of these issues with your system, give us a call and we will answer any of your questions and schedule a service call to take care of the problem!