Fast, Free Shipping
Every Size
Made in the USA
Shop by
Struggling to find what air filter you need? With the wide array of choices, selecting the right filter for your HVAC unit can be overwhelming. But don’t worry; through this post, we’ll help you pick the best one for your system.
Choosing the right filter is so important that it can help you save money in the long run. For example, studies show that a clogged or inefficient air filter can spike your monthly energy bills by up to 40%. This means that you can spend around $200 on your electric bills just because of poor filtration. Instead of paying the additional $80 and putting added strain on your system, a simple solution is to select the right air filter, at a cost of $10-15.
For starters, the main purpose of using air filters is to enhance indoor air quality by capturing harmful particles that impact your well-being. These filters act as a crucial barrier against these airborne contaminants.
One important aspect to consider when learning about air filters is filter efficiency. This affects its capability to trap particles of certain sizes. For example, it captures small particles if its score is higher. Nevertheless, keep in mind that a highly efficient one tends to clog faster and might need more regular replacements.
Air filters contribute significantly to maintaining residents' health and well-being by purifying indoor air. Knowing their role and efficiency assists in making an informed choice regarding the most suitable air filter for different situations. Acquiring this knowledge paves the way toward a healthier, cleaner living space.
Ill-fitting air or furnace filters can allow pollutants into your home, reduce the effectiveness of your system and increase electric bills. Debris entering the vents around a filter can also damage an HVAC system, resulting in system failure that could cost hundreds in repair bills.
Air filters can be easily ordered by the number printed on an existing product, or you can measure the actual size of the opening where the filter is installed to determine the nominal filter size you need. If the nominal size you need isn't readily available at your local hardware store or online, you will need to order a custom size to ensure a proper fit.
It's important to never force fit a filter that is too big, or allow air flow around a filter that is too small, as either can result in reduced efficiency.
Air filters come in various materials, each tailored to meet different air quality needs and home environments. Choosing the right filter material ensures better air quality, protects your HVAC system, and supports a healthier living space. Here’s an updated breakdown of the most commonly used air filter materials:
By understanding the strengths of each material, you can select the filter that best meets your household's needs. For superior filtration and balanced efficiency, pleated electrostatic filters remain a top choice.
MERV ratings measure the efficiency and effectiveness of air filters at capturing particles in the air. MERV ratings range from 1 to 16, with 16 providing the highest filtration. FilterBuy offers products with MERV ratings of MERV 8 (Silver), MERV 11 (Gold) and MERV 13 (Platinum), which are appropriate for most homes and higher than most original equipment manufacturer (OEM) products.
An OEM furnace filter is made by the company that also made your HVAC unit, while aftermarket air filters are manufactured by specialized third-party companies. Generally, both sources offer the right size air filter for your system, while after market manufacturers, such as FilterBuy, add extra features like odor blocking, higher MERV ratings and easier-to-replace designs. Top-quality after market filters manufactured by FilterBuy are also generally more affordable and they last longer.
Different brands will offer different ranges of MERV ratings and filter sizes. More importantly, not all filters are built equal – the quality of the filter materials determines how long the product lasts and how consistent it is in performance. Finally, you want to buy from companies that maximize benefits for customers through fast shipping and strong customer service.
Replace your home air filter every 90 days in standard environments. If you have pets, change filters every 60 days to remove pet dander and hair. Households with allergy or asthma sufferers should replace filters every 30-45 days for optimal air quality. During summer and winter when your HVAC system runs constantly, inspect your filter monthly for excessive dirt buildup.
Neglecting filter changes leads to increased energy bills (up to 15% higher), reduced air quality, system strain, and potential HVAC damage. You might notice more dust, higher utility bills, and reduced heating/cooling efficiency.
Select your air filter based on key factors: household size (400-3000 sq ft), number of occupants, presence of pets, allergy sufferers, and local air quality. For standard homes, choose MERV 8-11. Homes with pets or allergies need MERV 11-13. Check your HVAC manual for maximum supported MERV rating.
MERV 11 is suitable for most residential HVAC systems manufactured after 2000. It captures 85% of airborne particles (1-3 microns) including pet dander, pollen, and mold spores. While it may increase energy usage by 5-10%, the improved air quality often justifies the cost for homes with pets or allergy sufferers.
Choose MERV 8-11 for optimal home filtration. MERV 8 captures 70% of airborne particles and suits basic needs. MERV 11 traps 85% of particles and works best for homes with pets or mild allergies. For severe allergies or respiratory conditions, use MERV 13 if your system supports it.
MERV 8 filters capture 70% of airborne particles (3-10 microns), including dust, pollen, mold spores, and pet dander. This efficiency level suits most residential needs while maintaining optimal airflow and energy efficiency. Upgrade to MERV 11 for enhanced filtration of smaller particles.
Air filter choice significantly impacts indoor air quality and HVAC performance. Different filters capture varying particle sizes: MERV 8 catches 70% of 3-10 micron particles, while MERV 13 traps 98% of particles down to 0.3 microns. Choose based on your HVAC specifications and filtration needs.
MERV 11 provides 15% better filtration than MERV 8, capturing particles down to 1 micron versus 3 microns. However, MERV 8 offers better airflow and 5-10% lower energy costs. Choose MERV 11 for enhanced air quality, MERV 8 for optimal energy efficiency.
Replace MERV 11 filters every 60-90 days. Homes with pets need changes every 45-60 days. Check monthly during peak seasons (summer/winter). A clogged MERV 11 filter can reduce HVAC efficiency by up to 15% and increase energy costs.
Follow these steps: 1) Check HVAC manual for maximum MERV rating, 2) Measure filter size (length x width x depth), 3) Assess household needs (pets, allergies, etc.), 4) Consider local air quality, 5) Balance filtration needs with energy efficiency. Most homes do well with MERV 8-11 ratings.
Measure your current filter's dimensions (length x width x depth) or check the size printed on the frame. Common sizes include 16x20x1", 20x20x1", and 20x25x1". Always use exact measurements—a too-small filter creates air gaps, while a too-large filter won't fit properly.
MERV 8 filters typically reduce airflow by 2-5%, which is negligible for most HVAC systems. This minimal restriction maintains system efficiency while capturing 70% of common airborne particles. Higher MERV ratings (11+) can restrict airflow by 10-15%.
High MERV filters (11-13) justify their 20-30% higher cost when you need enhanced air filtration. They capture up to 98% of airborne particles versus 70% for standard filters. Consider upgrade costs ($15-25 per filter) against potential health benefits and energy impact (5-15% increased usage).
Locate your AC filter in one of three common spots: 1) Behind the return air grille on walls/ceilings, 2) Inside the air handler unit (usually in attic/basement), or 3) In a dedicated filter housing near the air handler. Look for a removable panel or grille measuring 16-25 inches.
