Contrary to popular belief, the main purpose of an air filter is not to purify the air. However, a standard filter is not fine enough to capture tiny particles, such as pollen and allergens. Fine mesh high energy particle (HEPA) air filters can trap these and mold spores. Often referred to as OEM filters or original equipment manufacturers, they are produced by the branded company.
There are also many aftermarket or discounted home air filters available for purchase. So what is the difference? Honestly, the biggest difference you'll see is the cost of air conditioning filters. OEM filters are usually much more expensive because you pay for a brand. When comparing the material from which each air filter is made, they will look and feel identical.
The only difference you may occasionally see is whether the OEM filter material is limited or has a patented design. The other difference you may notice is simply the brand and name of the oven filter. The important thing is the classification of the filter. For example, replacement Honeywell oven filters can be purchased through various filter manufacturers.
They are manufactured to the same specifications as the branded filter. Simply choose a filter size and MERV rating that meets your needs. Consumer Reports tests air filters for homes with forced air heating and cooling systems. We test the air flow resistance, which measures how freely air flows through the filter. Our recommended models are best for filtering dust, pollen and smoke from the air without impeding airflow.
When it comes to the health and comfort of your family, friends, and other guests, it's a good idea to get the most efficient air filter you can afford. Filters not only allow people to breathe easier, they can also reduce odors and make your home a more pleasant place to live. And if you really want to purify the air in your home, consider adding an air purifier. You've probably heard how important it is to change your home's air filter regularly. If you really want to clean the air as it flows through your HVAC system, you should consider installing a whole-house air purifier or a UV light that goes inside your HVAC unit.
However, these filters have some drawbacks first, they usually cost significantly more than basic fiberglass filters. These are installed in wall-mounted air return vents (more common in the south) or on the air handler (more common in the mid-Atlantic and northern states, where the air handler is often placed in the basement, near the furnace). Most of the time, the filter size is printed on the previous filter that you can use as a reference for reordering. Clogging increases the pressure difference between the inlet and outlet sides, and this can cause the filter pleats to flatten or the filter frame to bend. The experts at David Gray Heating & Air have extensive experience and expertise to help you with your air filtration needs. In the real world, with the air in your home constantly recirculating through the ducts and passing through the filters every time, the cumulative effect of the filters increases. We also test thicker oven filters, some up to 5 inches, and they often provide superior air cleanliness and long service life.
Do not hesitate to call if you need more information or if you are ready to make an appointment to install an air filtration system for your home. Finally, Owen noted that the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) has begun work on building filtration guidelines specific to wildfire conditions. However, you can order filters online and in bulk, which can save you money and hassle of running to store every time you need a filter. Owen also pointed out that wildfire smoke is a complex mixture, incorporating physical smoke particles (which filters permanently trap) and water vapor and volatile organic compounds (gases), which are not trapped and that create smoky aroma.
If you want a more efficient filter that traps smallest particles, you'll want to choose a filter with higher MERV rating.
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