Whether you’re outside hiking through the woods or relaxing in the comfort of your home, one thing’s certain—there is particulate matter all around you. With indoor air quality researchers concluding the detrimental effect of particulates on human health, it helps to take an appropriate course of action to protect yourself!
But how do you combat the effects of inadequate indoor air quality? By installing an efficient air filter into your HVAC system! While incorporating an air filter into your system is crucial, it’s worth noting that it’s only half the job.
You want to ensure your air filter suits your purposes and aligns with your unit’s performance. Here are four reasons your air filter might not be effective and may hinder healthy indoor air quality.
Low MERV Rating
MERV ratings are essential values to consider since they determine how much debris and particles your HVAC system is able to filter out. The higher the rating, the more contaminants your filtering component will be able to capture and prevent from circulating around your space.
For instance, a filter with a MERV 1 rating has the capacity to trap dead insects, pet dander, and other items from making their way into your air handler. However, the equipment may not be able to filter out allergen molecules, rendering it almost useless when trying to protect individuals with allergies.
Incorrect Installation
While unlikely, experts claim to see the strangest installations during an HVAC inspection. Depending on the system’s location, you should refer to manufacturer instructions or install the component into the slot of your furnace and place the access panel cover over the opening.
You may notice an arrow on the edging of the component; this represents the direction of airflow and should be directed toward the furnace compartment.
Improper Fit
A poor fit between your filtering component and your HVAC system is enough to reduce performance and result in poor efficiency. In this case, it helps to measure your furnace beforehand, allowing you to acquire the appropriate filter for the job.
Needs Replacement
This cause is relatively straightforward as it focuses on the consequences of a dirty, clogged air filter. The filtering components work diligently to trap particles, pests, pet hair, and other contaminants.
Over time, the filter will accumulate so much debris that its ability to capture pollutants before they enter your home becomes compromised.
This inconvenience will force your air system to work harder to circulate air, potentially damaging it in the process. To prevent these consequences, remember to change your air filter every 30 days or refer to manufacturer instructions before replacing it.
Filtration is crucial when prioritizing healthy indoor air quality. Your air filter might not be effective if it currently possesses one of these qualities; however, it’s never too late to acquire the appropriate component.
You can order custom furnace filters through our website at Remember The Filters. Here, you’ll be able to determine dimensions, MERV ratings, and other qualities to ensure you have the most suitable equipment for your HVAC system.
