When it comes to air filters, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. All professionals agree that a good air filter is essential for your home, as they have seen the problems that an incorrect air filter can cause in a HVAC system. If the filters are too restrictive, the motors and controls can burn out. Homeowners should check their air filter once a month to assess its condition and determine if it needs to be replaced. High-efficiency filters may be too restrictive for some units and create a barrier to good air flow.
MERV 11 air filters are usually not too restrictive for most systems, as long as they are changed regularly. To make sure you get the right filter, buy replacement air filters from Star Heating & Cooling. It is a common misconception that closing ventilation grilles can reduce energy bills. However, since the air filters in many residential homes contribute more than half of the pressure, it's clear that air filters are responsible for much of the pressure drop in an air conditioning system. If the air filter is too restrictive, the air conditioning system may have difficulty passing air through it and use more energy in its attempts. A filter with a flat surface is usually made of fiberglass, while pleated filters are usually made of polyester or cotton paper.
This means that if you compare two MERV 11 air filters to each other, the one with the most folds is likely to allow more air flow. When shopping for an oven filter, visit a big box store and head to the furnace filter aisle: there are dozens, sometimes even hundreds of options available. To ensure maximum levels of performance and energy efficiency, I recommend changing your air filters every 1 to 2 months. If you have questions about the appropriate filter classification for your air conditioning system, ask your HVAC technician for professional advice.
