The air filter in your HVAC system is an important part of keeping the air in your home healthy and clean. Choosing the right air filters can help you maintain good indoor air quality throughout the heating and cooling seasons. Should you go with disposable filters or permanent ones? Find out more about the pros and cons of each.

Disposable Filters

Disposable filters are ones that you need to replace from time to time. These filters are less expensive, but you’ll need to buy them on a regular basis. Disposable filters should be replaced every month or every few months depending on certain factors, such as whether or not you have pets or anyone in your home has asthma. Otherwise, these air filters can become covered with dust, dander, and other particles that lower the air quality in your home.

In terms of energy efficiency, disposable filters tend to have higher minimum efficiency reporting value ratings, or MERV ratings. These ratings indicate how efficient these filters are. Disposable filters usually have MERV ratings that fall between four and 12. Disposable filters also usually catch more particles than permanent filters, resulting in healthier air in your home.

Washable or Permanent Filters

Washable or permanent filters are ones that you can use over and over again. You usually don’t need to replace these until you’ve had them for at least a few years or more as long as you maintain them. Maintenance for these filters involves removing and cleaning them off. You’ll need to let them dry before putting them back in, so that mold or mildew won’t grow on them. Permanent air filters cost more upfront, but you won’t need to spend money on them frequently.

When it comes to energy efficiency, permanent filters tend to have a lower MERV rating compared to disposable filters. The MERV ratings on permanent filters typically ranges between one and four.

If you need more information on disposable and permanent air filters for your Peachtree City home, contact Powers Heating and Air.