Do You Need to Replace the Filter in Your Home Heating-and-Cooling Equipment?

The environmental protection agency says that the air quality inside your home can be 2 to 5 times lower in air quality than the great outdoors,even higher in some cases. Our homes abound with pollen, bacteria, dust and other particles even ozone is found at higher levels within our humble abodes.

While most modern air handling equipment does come with better filtering systems, an upgrade is always a possibility. Filters range from very basic single sheet filters with a mesh backing, to electronic air filters needing professional installation by a reputable heating and air contractor.

These filters come in many different sizes and thicknesses so it pays to measure the old one before searching for the new. Some of the new electrostatic filters are thinner and offer more surface area, which also could cause a need for a contractor. Never assume two are better than one as a certain amount of air needs to pass through your system for it to function properly and to little air flow can cause severe to even dangerous problems with an older system. It is possible to install multiple filters but they must be sized by a knowledgeable contractor and installed properly.

If you suffer from severe allergies check with a reputable contractor for options as there are filtering systems made with that in mind.

Most manufacturer's recommend changing or cleaning (if they are washable) their filters at specified intervals but i suggest checking them every month, especially with pets on the home, when the filter is obviously dirty, change it out, not only will your air be cleaner but the system will operate more efficiently and save you money. Myself, i like the last part every bit as much as the first.