Choosing the ideal air filter does not have to be rocket science. Instead, this is something you can do by following the appropriate guide. Nonetheless, you may also want to consult the services of an HVAC engineer just to ensure you have made the right decision.
You will find different air filters, such as the 16x25x1 air filter MERV 13. That tends to leave you confused about what to choose for your residential building, corporate establishment, or healthcare setting.
Keep reading to learn more about deciding the right air filter for your HVAC system.
Choosing an air filter for your HVAC system
#1: The MERV rating
Even if you are not an expert in air filters, anyone looking for one will certainly start with the aspect of MERV rating. Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) refers to the efficiency with which the air filter shall perform filtration. The scale starts from 1 to 16. The higher the rating, the more efficient your air filter is.
Sometimes you may be tempted to choose the highest MERV score for your air filter. However, that is not always the case because a slight mismatch in the MERV rating could render your efforts futile.
Generally, the 16x25x1 air filter with a MERV rating of 13 could be all you need for your HVAC system. The air filter works well for most people’s needs. Choose this except when you have advanced needs, during which you can first consult an HVAC engineer to advise on the way forward.
#2: Manufacturer’s recommendation
Your HVAC system manufacturer also understands the need to install an air filter. Thus, they will often guide their customers in choosing the right filter for your installation. The goal is to ensure you get clean and quality air without straining the HVAC system.
Take time to go through the recommendations printed on the packaging. You may be surprised by the wealth of information available in these writings that some people consider too technical.
Do not forget the following factors that have an impact on the filter’s ability:
- Type of filter installed
- Number of pets
- Frequency of running ac
- Number of occupants in the space
- Indoor and outdoor air quality
- Filter efficiency level
#3: Type of air filter
Even if you are already settled on the MERV rating for your filter, such as the 16x25x1 air filter, you still have to decide on the specific type to go for. That’s because the marketplace has different filters, including pleated air filters, flat panel air filters, and washable air filters.
Pleated filters are normally designed with a bit bent to fit more surface area and trap many particles. The filter is moderately thick, and its material is largely a cotton-polyester blend.
Flat panel air filters have a flat cardboard frame. Even though they may be budget-friendly, these filters are less efficient than the pleated ones. They focus on trapping bigger debris.
Thirdly, washable air filters are the kind you can have for a long time. You can make a personal ecological choice to go for custom air filters. However, they could be less efficient and get dirty more quickly.
Installing a 16x25x1 air filter MERV 13 in your HVAC system improves the quality of air in your spaces. That means you are exposed to fewer airborne pathogens, including coronaviruses.
