Why Won’t My Standard Air Filter Cut It?

Because it is simply not efficient enough to do the job effectively. That’s the short answer. The long answer includes the fact that it’s not intended to do this particular job. Does that mean that these air filters are useless, or that you should not be changing yours regularly? Of course not. You just need to better understand their intended purpose.

These basic flat air filters typically have a MERV of 1–4. MERV is the efficiency rating given to such filters. It stands for "minimum efficiency reporting value." The purpose of having this relatively inefficient filter in place is to protect your HVAC systems from the buildup of dust and dirt on their sensitive components. More efficient filters are designed for boosting indoor air quality.

What Type of Filter Do I Need?

A common misconception is that a more efficient air filter is always going to better. This is true in the sense that you’ll need a more efficient filter than that which comes standard to HVAC systems. However, you don’t want one that is too efficient for your HVAC systems to collaborate with. That will cause a number of problems, from reduced efficiency to damaging levels of strain on your HVAC systems.

By installing a pleated or extended surface air filter in your HVAC system, you essentially turn it into an air filtration system. These filters are of medium efficiency, typically between 5–13 MERV, with those rated 7–13 on the MERV scale comparing favorably with HEPA filters. True HEPA filters have MERV ratings of 17–20, and are simply too efficient for residential systems to work with, as they create too much airflow resistance.

You Need Professional Air Filtration System Services

If you are serious about improving indoor air quality throughout your home, then you need to have a trained professional assess your living space, your overall IAQ conditions, and your HVAC system. He or she will be able to recommend appropriate equipment for the best outcome in terms of improving the quality of the air that you breathe throughout your home.

A whole–house air filtration system in Paramus, NJ will help to reduce allergy and asthma symptoms, and it will help to keep your home looking and feeling cleaner. You just don’t want to cause your HVAC systems problems in the process. Working with us means that you won’t have to worry about that.

Contact Advanced Mechanical Services to discuss your air filtration system options.