DIY home maintenance is quite fulfilling, and as you mark your checklist, one of the items that can be a bit confusing is the air filters. What’s the right option considering your unique needs, like controlling allergens, and does size really matter? Such questions can make your shopping quests tricky, but for most homeowners, the 18x18x4 air filter MERV 8 marks the boxes. That’s because the MERV 8 rating means the filter captures small particles. This includes elements like pet dander, pollen, and dust. Such capacity makes it ideal for those with mild allergies or who have pets. Moreover, the 18x18x4 size is a common standard for residential HVAC systems. But does size really matter, and if yes, why is it so? Here are the top four reasons you should pay more attention to size as you shop for residential air filters.
- It impacts airflow
Air filters don’t just capture particles. They also impact how the air flows through the HVAC system, which impacts air conditioning. This means that a small filter could quickly get clogged, limiting the airflow, which would force the HVAC system to work harder to deliver. On the other hand, an oversized filter could easily allow particles to enter the system, which means the air quality won’t be as good as you’d want when investing in the air filter. Using the correct size ensures efficient airflow, resulting in quality indoor air without straining the HVAC system.
- Cost-effectiveness
Imagine having to frequently change the air filter because you can’t seem to keep the allergens away. That could easily be the case if you invest in the wrong size, especially a larger air filter. Such a filter leaves huge gaps that can easily let debris enter the system, which means the output is characterized by polluted air, forcing you to change the filter more often while still experiencing poor indoor air quality. Even worse, the debris that enters the system can cause damage to the HVAC, such as the blower, which may force you to do some repair work. Frequent replacement and HVAC repair expenses add up quickly, which can prove costly in the long run.
- Energy consumption
You may’ve noticed a spike in your energy bills, and despite your best efforts, you still fail to find the main culprit. The HVAC system could be the reason, and the air filter could be behind the skyrocketing energy consumption. The wrong air filter size can force the HVAC system to overwork to push the air through, which means higher energy consumption. With the correct size, the filter facilitates better airflow, which means the HVAC system doesn’t have to work harder. Such energy efficiency can help lower the bills, with the bonus of contributing towards a greener world by minimizing energy consumption.
- Better indoor air quality
The main reason for investing in the air filter is to improve indoor air quality, which won’t be possible without the right fit, which allergens are likely to bypass easily. A filter that fits the system helps effectively trap contaminants, ensuring the indoor air is free from common allergens. You’ll enjoy cleaner and healthier indoor air, which makes the air filter worth the investment.
You can easily overlook the air filter size as you pay more attention to the MERV rating. While the rating is an essential check, the size also matters, as the four aspects highlighted above show. As you consider the options, the 18x18x4 air filter MERV 8 often wins. It is an ideal option for most residential properties and light commercial spaces, offering the capacity to capture pollutants while facilitating optimal airflow.
