Furnace Filters 101: Choosing the Best Filter for Your Needs

Furnace Filter PictureChances are, if you own a home, you’ve had to make a decision regarding what type of furnace filter is best for your lifestyle. With several to choose from, it’s helpful to know exactly what type best suits your needs and the needs of your family. After all, not all filters are created equal. The team at Home Comfort Experts has put together this list of furnace filter options to help you decide which furnace filter is right for you.

Disposable Fiberglass

Made of 1″ thick spun fiberglass, this filter is very inexpensive, and best for those without allergies or asthma, as it does little more than prevent larger particles such as lint, dust, and other debris from clogging your system.

Disposable Pleated

Perhaps the most popular option, this relatively inexpensive filter is made of cotton or polyester paper. It can remove some smaller particles such as spores and mites, but must be changed frequently to prevent clogging your system.

Related Read: 3 Things That Are in Your Air Ducts That You’ll Want Removed Immediately

Disposable Electrostatic

This filter has electrostatic cotton or paper fibers that attract and contain small particles, making it the best option for homes with children, pets, or smokers. While it is affordable in standard sizes, custom sizes can be more expensive.

Permanent Electrostatic

Using the same technology as its disposable counterpart, this option has a machine-washable filter that can be reused for up to eight years. Like its counterpart, it’s affordable in standard sizes, but can be pricey if custom sizes are needed.

High-Efficiency Pleated

The king of furnace filters, these consist of 4-5″ pleated synthetic cotton, and are attached to a metal grid to prevent leaks. These filters are used in hospitals, as they trap the smallest of particles, and are useful to those with respiratory issues or autoimmune disorders. Of course, this filter will run you approximately $100 per year, and can only be installed in certain homes due to the thickness of the filter.

Obviously, routinely changing your furnace filter is imperative to keep your furnace running properly, and your air clean. Dirty or clogged filters make your furnace work harder and therefore can increase your energy bills. In today’s newer systems, a clogged filter can even cause the system to shut down completely. Changing your filters on a regular basis not only prolongs the life of your HVAC system and saves you money on energy bills, but keeps you and your family healthy.

Related Read: Buying a High-Efficiency Furnace – What to Know

For more information about the type of filter you need and how often you should change it, contact us directly, or visit our blog for more helpful hints. Home Comfort Experts is here for all of your heating, cooling, and plumbing needs.