Breathing Easy - What you might not know about filters...

Most people pay little attention to their HVAC system. As long as it’s keeping them warm during winter and cool during summer, why worry about it? We get it. Beautiful moldings and casements, or even bigger investments like new roofing and windows can make a dramatic difference. But there can be real impact with small things, and choosing the right filter is one of them.

Indoor air quality is important to your health and maintaining your home`s hvac system is key. It is important to change your filter regularly. There are numerous furnace filter choices out there. Selecting a incorrect filter can cause more harm to your furnace than good. It could actually result in the furnace breaking down.

MERV Ratings

MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. MERV Ratings vary between 1 and 16. As the rating increases, the fewer the number of particles that will be able to pass through the filter media.

Filters with higher ratings may not be the right choice. A filter with a high Merv rating may force your furnace to work harder, become less efficient and cost more to operate. A merv rating between 8 and 11 is sufficient for most homes. To be on the safe side, check with your furnace manufacturer or service technician in Canada to determine the best furnace filter for your system.

Five types of filters commonly used in our homes in Toronto and Mississauga.

High Efficiency Pleated

Generally chosen by most homeowners. They are available in an array of sizes, as well as merv ratings. Pleated filters are made with synthetic material, eliminating moisture buildup and the growth of mould. They perform very well, filtering out household allergens and particles. The pleats are evenly spaced to provide efficient airflow. The pleat material is fixed to a rigid grid to keep the pleats in place and provide good durability. The price of pleated filters varies, depending on size, brand and rating.They should be checked monthly for any blockages and replaced every 90 days. They are economical and can be manufactured from green materials. A good choice for those who have respiratory problems or looking for overall improved indoor air.

Standard Fiberglass

These are the least expensive filters available. They have a "spider-web" like appearance and are typically blue in color. Available in an array of standard sizes and are more delicate, as well as having a lower merv rating than pleated filters. These disposable filters must be frequently checked and often need to be changed monthly.

Washable

Washable filters are made with either a plastic, or aluminum frame. They can be vacuumed and cleaned with water. Available in a multiple of sizes, as well as different merv ratings. They`re more expensive, but can last up to five years, which would make them a good economical solution. Proper maintenance is required and they should be cleaned every 90 days.

Disposable Electrostatic

This type of filter has electrically charged fibers that catch contaminants as they pass through the media. Good for homes that have pets or tobacco smoke. Check your electrostatic furnace manual to make sure that your system is suitable to operate electrostatic filters safely.

Permanent Electrostatic

These filters have self charging cotton fibers that attract particles. They have a detachable, machine washable filter that can be re-used for up to 8 years.

Common furnace filter sizes

Furnace filters are sized, based on depth (thickness), length and height. The most prevalent thickness is around 1", with 4" also serving as a popular choice. Length and height combos range from 10x10 inches to 30x30 inches. The most common available sizes are 14 x 20 x 1 , 16 x 20 x 1 , 16 x 25 x 1 and 16 x 25 x 4.

To determine the size of your furnace filter, remove and examine the existing one to be replaced, or refer to your furnace manual.

Model 16x25x1 MERV 11 -Commercial Filters