As an HVAC professional with years of experience, I have seen many homeowners opt for cheap air filters in an attempt to save money. And while it may seem like a good idea at first, the truth is that using cheap air filters can actually end up costing you more in the long run. Let's start with the basics. If no one in your household has allergies and you don't have pets or major air quality problems, an inexpensive filter can still be effective. However, the main drawback of cheaper filters is that you'll have to replace them more often.
This means that while you may save money upfront, you'll end up spending more over time. When it comes to furnace filters, the general rule for many HVAC professionals is "the cheaper, the better". This is because cheap filters are made with larger fabric that can only trap larger particles. This means that smaller particles, which can still affect the operation of your HVAC system and your health, will continue to circulate in your home. This is especially problematic for large families with pets in the home. With more people and pets in the house, the air filter will need to be changed more frequently, resulting in higher costs.
On the other hand, investing in a washable air filter may seem like a good idea as it can last for years. However, this option also has its drawbacks such as a lower MERV rating (which measures the efficiency of an air filter), frequent maintenance requirements, and the possibility of attracting mold to the air unit. So what's the solution? My recommendation is to look for online retailers that offer discounts for setting up periodic shipments of air filters. This way, you can save money while ensuring that you always have a fresh, clean air filter in your home. Additionally, when buying air filters online, look for places that allow you to customize the quantity to get exactly what you need. If you have asthma or allergies, it's especially important to choose an air filter with a high MERV rating so you can remove as many harmful particles from the air as possible.
The cheapest filters are typically made of spun fiberglass, which filters air very poorly compared to materials such as paper, cotton, or polyester. Another factor to consider is the number of folds or layers in an air filter. Cheaper filters often have fewer folds, which significantly reduces their surface area for trapping impurities. This is especially problematic for older HVAC units that were not built to accommodate thicker air filters. While pleated filters may clean air better than fiberglass filters, there are better options available that can efficiently clean the air without adding stress to your system. One of these options is an air filter with a higher MERV score.
This means that it has a larger surface area for filtering particles, providing better protection for your HVAC system and improving indoor air quality. Now, you may be wondering why cheap air filters are even an option if they are less efficient and can end up costing you more in the long run. The truth is that they are made with lower quality materials such as cardboard and paper, which do not last as long as more expensive options. Additionally, a 1-inch filter may make it difficult to effectively filter the air while also ensuring optimal airflow and equipment performance. By now, it should be clear that investing in a higher-quality air filter is the best option for your home and your wallet. Not only do they last longer and provide better protection for your HVAC system, but they also help prevent mold and mildew growth by reducing moisture in the air.
