Maintaining a safe and healthy indoor environment isn’t just about choosing the right HVAC equipment; it’s also about regularly replacing the furnace’s air filter. A clean air filter helps to maintain proper air quality as well as improve the efficiency of your furnace as it filters out dirt, dust, and other air pollutants. But with so many options, finding the most suitable one can be difficult. In this guide, we’re going to cover the most popular furnace filters of 2023 available on the market. We’ll also go over some tips on how to make sure you choose the right filter for your furnace and how often you should be changing it. With the right filter, you can rest assured that your home’s air is clean and fresh.
When in the market for a furnace filter, it’s important to understand the features and factors that should be taken into account when making your purchase. Use the below guide to determine which filter will best suit your needs.
It’s important to ensure that your furnace filter is the proper size for the opening in your furnace. Taking measurements of the available space and comparing them to the product specifications is key to know which size will fit correctly. Depending on your model, air filters may come in 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6-inch thicknesses.
Efficiency ratings measure how well a filter can correctly capture particles and allergens that are present in the air. The higher the rating is on a MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) scale, the better it is at filtering out these particles. The most common ratings are MERV 8 and MERV 11, but if you are especially sensitive to allergens or suffer from asthma, a MERV 13 or higher may be beneficial.
Different types of furnace filters offer different benefits and drawbacks. Pleated filters are some of the most common and offer good protection against airborne particles and debris. They are also available in multiple sizes and come in a range of efficiency ratings. Fiberglass filters are usually more affordable than other options but must be replaced more often. Electrostatic filters are relatively expensive but do not need to be replaced as frequently as other types of filters as they can be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner or mild detergent solution. Finally, washable filters require very little maintenance and can last up to three years before needing to be replaced.
The cost of furnace filters will vary depending on size, type, efficiency rating, and other factors, such as whether they are washable or disposable. Be sure to consult your budget when selecting a filter in order to find one that fits within it while still providing an effective level of filtration.
In addition to size, another important feature to consider when choosing a furnace filter is its thickness. Generally speaking, thicker filters hold more debris and allergens than thinner ones but also limit airflow more significantly than their thinner counterparts. Consider how well you want your filter to perform and whether you are willing to compromise on airflow for better filtration when selecting a filter by its thickness.
Look for a filter that has been designed with longevity in mind so that you don’t have to replace it frequently. For example, washable filters often last longer than disposable options due to their ability to be cleaned regularly rather than replaced after each use. Additionally, make sure that the product you select has been made with quality materials that will provide long-term performance without falling apart easily or wearing down prematurely.
When choosing a furnace filter, it’s important to consider how often you will need to clean or replace it so that you can adequately maintain its performance over time. Disposable filters typically need to be replaced every 1-3 months, while washable or electrostatic options can often last up to one year before needing any cleaning or replacement. Refer to the product specifications for further details so that you know exactly what kind of maintenance is required for each filter option before buying one.
Prior to purchasing any new furnace filter, make sure you read the installation instructions carefully so that you can properly install it yourself or know what professional help might be necessary for installation if needed. This will help ensure that your new filter is installed correctly and safely, without any future problems arising from incorrect installation.
It is a good idea to research any warranties offered by manufacturers prior to purchasing any product so that you can take advantage of them if needed in case of defects or other issues during use. In addition, this information can also give you more insight into the quality of the product itself, as manufacturers usually only offer warranties on products that are built with high levels of craftsmanship and care.
The Filtrete Furnace Filter is the perfect air filter for those who need a reliable and efficient option to help protect their family or business against air pollutants. It’s compatible with Honeywell furnaces that require a 4″ filter. It also has a MERV 12 rating and captures 54% of small particles, such as bacteria and viruses, from the air passing through it. This ensures that everyone can enjoy clean air without having to worry about what might be lurking. In addition to being highly efficient at filtering out particles, this filter also features a unique countdown in the Filtrete Smart App that will inform you when it is time to replace it. This allows you to scan the barcode on your filter’s packaging easily, then choose 3, 6, or 12 months for your replacement countdown. This helps you avoid any surprises when it comes to efficiency and performance. With its superior filtration performance, unique change countdown technology, and affordability, this filter stands out from all the other options on our list, making it our top pick.
The Aerostar Furnace Filter is the ideal air filter for those looking for a cost-effective way to ensure healthier air in their home. This filter comes in a 6-pack and is designed to fit most air furnaces. It can filter microscopic particles such as lint, dust mites, spores, pollen, pet dander, smoke, viruses, and bacteria from the air. Its synthetic electrostatic media offers high efficiency with low airflow resistance. Consumers can rest assured that this product will reduce the number of airborne particles in the air, making this filter an ideal choice for improving air quality. The filter is simple to install and requires minimal effort. For optimal results, it should be replaced every 60 to 90 days—or even more frequently during peak summer and winter months—in order to prevent any buildup of dust or particles in the filter. It is important to note that this product is manufactured by a world-leading manufacturer and supplier of filtration solutions, making the world safer, healthier, and more productive. With its easy installation process and durable design, this product is sure to provide consumers with years of reliable filtration.
The Filterbuy Furnace Filter is a great product for any home that needs improved air quality. This filter is designed to capture airborne particles, like dust and pollen, while still allowing your HVAC system to provide adequate airflow. The MERV 8 synthetic media provides superior protection while still protecting your system from damage. In addition, the air filter has a durable, industrial-grade beverage board frame with dual wire backings that is more effective than traditional cardboard designs. This also helps to extend the lifespan of the filter, eliminating the need for frequent replacements. Plus, all components are carefully crafted in the United States, utilizing recyclable materials in the production process. This filter is an excellent choice for anyone looking to improve their home’s air quality without sacrificing their HVAC system’s performance.
The Crisp Furnace Filter is an exceptional product that offers users enhanced air filtration and top-tier performance. The pleats are designed with high-quality CNK-coated beverage boards, offering high-performance filtration for up to three months. What’s more, this filter prevents debris and allergens such as pollen and dust from entering one’s home, producing only pure and crisp air. The air filter is incredibly easy to use and install. Simply slide it into the air filter return of your unit, and you’re set. It is recommended to change the filter out up to every 90 days, but households with specific air quality needs should change the filter more frequently. Overall, this product provides outstanding quality due to its superior construction and materials. It also offers users enhanced air coverage, better particle capture performance, cleaner breaths of air, and extended life support for any furnace or air conditioning system.
The almighty Nordic Furnace Filter is designed specifically to replace Honeywell units. It contains MERV 12 filter media to help reduce pollen, pet dander, dust, and other allergens from your indoor air so you can breathe easily. The filter is made with electrostatically charged synthetic media for superior performance and offers an extended life span. Additionally, the pleated design allows for maximum airflow, so your HVAC system runs smoothly and efficiently. It is meant to eliminate odors and will provide better indoor air quality while catching dirt and particles that other standard filters cannot, thanks to the higher media rating of MERV 12. The filter is also very easy to install; no tools or additional parts are needed. The pleated design even adds to the ease of installation. If you want clean air in your home at an affordable price, this option is ideal for you!
A: The frequency with which your furnace filter should be replaced varies on a variety of factors, such as the type of filter you are using, the level of air quality you desire, and the environment that you live in. Generally, it is recommended that you replace your furnace filter every 3 months to ensure optimal air quality.
A: The best type of furnace filter to buy is dependent upon your individual needs. There is a wide range of filter types available, including disposable, pleated, electrostatic, and washable filters. Before selecting a filter type, consider factors such as the MERV rating, size, and cost.
A: The cost of purchasing a new furnace filter will depend on various factors, such as size and type. Generally, most disposable filters will cost around $7-$20 for basic models and up to $50 for high-efficiency models.
A: The primary difference between reusable and disposable filters is their lifespan; reusable filters can be washed and reused multiple times, while disposable filters can only be replaced after their lifespan has expired (usually around 3 months). Additionally, reusable filters are typically more expensive than their disposable counterparts due to the fact that they can be used over a longer period of time.
A: It is important to select a MERV rating based on your individual needs; higher ratings will provide better filtration but may require more frequent changes, while lower ratings won’t offer as much protection but may last longer between changes. Additionally, consult with your local HVAC dealer, as they should know what specific rating is best suited for your needs and home environment.