02 Oct The Importance of Choosing the Correct Furnace Filter

Even though some furnace filters may look the same, there are important and distinct differences among them. It is essential that homeowners are informed of what type of filter is required for their particular type of heating and cooling system. When purchasing a filter, be certain that you select one that is properly sized and has an appropriate MERV rating. The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers has created an efficiency rating system for furnace filters—the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value or MERV.

For residential filters, the system runs from 1-16, with the higher-rated filters removing smaller (and more) airborne particles. In general, you want the highest rated filter your furnace can handle safely, while being mindful that the highest MERV filters are often too tightly woven for many applications and tend to impede system airflow. Many times, an incorrect filter can be the reason your furnace will shut down. This can be more damaging to your heating and cooling system than an inefficient furnace filter is. Just because a filter looks the same doesn’t mean it is the same. The best option is to use the manufacturer recommended filter instead of an off-brand. Though an off-brand may be less expensive, it is not necessarily the best choice.

At Cliff Bergin & Associates, we stock a wide variety of manufacturer appropriate furnace filters at all times. For our customers’ convenience, our office is open Monday thru Friday 7am–5pm and Saturdays from 8 a.m.– 12 p.m. You may stop in to purchase a filter during these hours. If you have a uniquely sized filter that is custom-made, we can handle this for you as well. Just give us a call with your sizing and specifications, and we can have it made.