If you heat your home or business with a furnace, then you probably know that the filters need to be changed on a regular basis. Filters prevent contaminants from entering the return air ducts and being re-circulated, so changing these will help keep the indoor air clean and even allow for energy-efficient heating.
The frequency of filter replacement, though, depends on certain factors. The first is the filter material.
Fiberglass Filters
Sometimes called throwaway filters, fiberglass filters are the cheapest that can be found but are flimsy and must be replaced every 30 days on average. They can capture large particles of dust and dirt but not microbes.
Pleated Filters
Pleated filters are made from paper or polyester sheets and last around 90 days. Compared to the flat surface of fiberglass options, the pleats increase the surface area of this type of filter and can thus capture more contaminants. They also capture smaller particles like mold spores and pet dander.
At Metal Masters, we usually replace air filters for home and business owners in Medford, OR, as part of our preventative maintenance. You can trust us to use the right size and material for your furnace.
Understanding the MERV Rating
You can refer to the MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating to help you determine when a filter should be replaced. The MERV rating is a measurement, going from 1 to 16, of how effective a filter is in capturing particles. Fiberglass filters fall in the range of 1 to 4 while pleated filters are rated from 5 to 8.
Other Factors
Should you own pets or live in an area polluted with smog, then you may need to replace the filter sooner since it will get clogged sooner. If an occupant suffers from asthma or another respiratory condition, this would be another reason for more frequent replacement.
NATE-Certified Technicians Here to Serve You
Metal Masters has been providing professional furnace maintenance, repairs, and replacements in southern Oregon, thanks to our team of NATE-certified technicians. Metal fabrication is another specialty of ours, along with air conditioning, air quality services, humidity services and insulation. We are proud to be a Lenox Premier Dealer with over 50 years of experience. To ask any questions, call us today.