Types of Furnace Air Filters & How to Choose the Right One
Maintaining good indoor air quality and optimizing your furnace’s performance both depend on one key component: the air filter. But with so many types of furnace air filters on the market, choosing the right one for your home can feel overwhelming. In this blog, we’ll break down the most common types of furnace filters, how they work, and what to consider when selecting one.
1. Why Furnace Filters Matter
Furnace filters do more than just trap dust—they protect your HVAC system from dirt buildup, improve energy efficiency, and reduce airborne allergens and pollutants. A clean and efficient filter can also extend the lifespan of your system.
2. Common Types of Furnace Air Filters
Fiberglass Filters Pros: Inexpensive, disposable, basic dust protection.
Cons: Low filtration efficiency (low MERV rating), not suitable for allergy sufferers.
Pleated Filters Pros: Better filtration than fiberglass, affordable, disposable.
Cons: Need replacement every 1-3 months. Electrostatic
Filters Pros: Use static electricity to capture particles, available in disposable and washable versions.
Cons: Initial cost may be higher. HEPA Filters (High Efficiency Particulate Air)
Pros: Capture up to 99.97% of particles, excellent for allergies/asthma.
Cons: May require system modifications, more expensive.
UV Filters Pros: Use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria, mold, and viruses.
Cons: Often used alongside another filter; don’t capture dust or particles.
3. Understanding MERV Ratings
The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rates a filter’s ability to capture particles.
MERV 1–4: Basic filtration (fiberglass filters) MERV 5–8: Standard residential use (pleated filters)
MERV 9–12: Better filtration for pet dander, smoke, and mold
MERV 13–16: Hospital-level filtration (some pleated or HEPA filters)
Note: Higher MERV isn’t always better. Your system must be compatible with highefficiency filters.
4. How to Choose the Right Filter
When selecting a furnace filter, consider:
Allergies or asthma: Go for HEPA or high-MERV pleated filters.
Pets: Look for filters that trap dander and hair.
Budget: Disposable fiberglass or pleated filters are affordable.
Maintenance: Washable filters save money over time but require regular cleaning.
System Compatibility: Always check your HVAC manual or ask a professional.
If you’re looking for expert furnace filter services, including installation, repair, or maintenance, Belcarra Mechanical has you covered. Learn more about our furnace filter services here.
5. Still Not Sure?
Choosing the right furnace air filter can improve your home’s air quality and extend your HVAC system’s lifespan. If you’re unsure which filter suits your needs, our team at Belcarra Mechanical is here to help.Contact us today for professional advice, filter installation, or regular HVAC maintenance in Burnaby, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, and nearby areas.
