With rising energy costs, homeowners are more focused than ever on maximizing efficiency. While it’s well known that your HVAC system is one of the biggest energy consumers in your home, what’s often overlooked is the impact your air filter has on that efficiency. A well-maintained filter not only helps your system run more smoothly but can also significantly reduce energy waste. Use this guide to learn how air filters affect HVAC energy efficiency.
Airflow, HVAC Filters and Energy Efficiency
Your HVAC system’s air filter protects your heating and cooling system by preventing dirt and debris from damaging its internal components. It also plays an essential role in maintaining indoor air quality by capturing airborne contaminants that would otherwise recirculate throughout your living spaces. However, if it becomes clogged with gunk, it can restrict the airflow to your heating or cooling equipment. Restricted airflow makes your system work harder to keep your home at your desired temperature. The U.S. Department of Energy suggests that dirty air filters can reduce an HVAC system’s efficiency by up to 15%. Additionally, excessive wear and tear can shorten the lifespan of your heating and cooling system and lead to the need for more frequent repairs.
When To Change Your HVAC System’s Filter
Most heating and cooling system manufacturers recommend changing your air filter at least every three months. However, you may have to replace yours more often due to factors like how many people live in your household, how frequently your system runs, and if you have pets.
Many homeowners inspect their HVAC filters once a month to determine when they need attention. If you are unsure if you need to replace it, you can compare it to a new one. A filter that needs to be replaced will be grey in color and may have visible debris on its surface. In addition, light should easily pass through a filter that is in good condition.
Differences in Filter Construction and Efficiency
Not all HVAC filters are created equal, and their design and efficiency can significantly impact energy use. Filters vary in ability to trap contaminants from the air, so they are measured using a MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating. The higher the MERV rating, the more effective the filter captures smaller particles. However, a filter with too high a rating can affect airflow and your system’s energy efficiency.
Basic filters, typically rated between MERV 1 and 4, are flat and made from woven fiberglass. These filters capture larger particles like dust and lint but are less effective at filtering out smaller allergens or pollutants. Because they allow air to pass through easily, they place minimal strain on your HVAC system. However, they offer limited air quality benefits.
Pleated filters are a step up in quality. They are usually made from polyester, cotton, or a blend of natural and synthetic fibers. These filters, which commonly range from MERV 8 to 13, have a greater surface area due to the pleats, allowing them to capture more particles without frequent replacement. However, while these filters are more effective at improving indoor air quality, they also create more resistance, requiring the system to work harder to draw air through.
Here’s where balance becomes crucial. Although high-efficiency filters, such as those with MERV ratings above 13, filter fine particles like bacteria and smoke, they can strain your HVAC system if it isn’t designed to handle the reduced airflow. For instance, using a MERV 16 filter in a standard residential HVAC system could lead to reduced efficiency and even cause damage over time due to the increased load on the system.
Choosing the right filter means considering your air quality needs and your system’s capacity. For most homes, a filter with a MERV rating between 8 and 12 strikes a good balance between filtration efficiency and energy savings.
Affordable Service Solutions Heating & Air Conditioning Your Local HVAC Experts
At Affordable Service Solutions Heating & Air Conditioning, we have served the residents of Richmond, KY, and the surrounding areas for over a decade. We offer maintenance, installation, and repair heating and cooling systems. You can also turn to us for all your indoor air quality needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced HVAC technicians.
