Choosing the Right Air Filter: Health, Savings, and Comfort

You breathe it in every day. The air in your home or business is invisible, but its quality impacts your health, comfort, and even your wallet. At Briggs Heating, we know that choosing the right HVAC air filter isn’t just about keeping dust at bay—it’s about protecting your lungs, your energy bill, and your peace of mind.

If you’re searching for “AC Repair near you” or need 24/7 emergency hvac help, you already know something’s off. But before problems get worse, let’s talk about a simple fix: your air filter.

What Are MERV Ratings? Understand the Numbers

Think of MERV ratings as the “strength score” for air filters—like SPF for sunscreen, but for your lungs.

• MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value.
• Numbers range from 1 to 20.
• The higher the number, the smaller the particles it traps.

What do MERV ratings mean for you? 😷

• MERV 1–4: Basic protection. Captures large dust and lint. Like a chain-link fence keeping out beach balls.
• MERV 5–8: Standard for most homes. Blocks mold spores, pet dander, pollen. Think window screens for bugs.
• MERV 9–12: Better for allergies or pets. Traps finer dust, smoke, bacteria. Like a sieve catching sand.
• MERV 13–16: Recommended for hospitals or high-need buildings. Stops viruses, smoke, fine allergens. Heavy-duty stuff.

But—higher isn’t always better for every system. Your HVAC might struggle if you go too high, like putting thick mud tires on a city bike. Always check your system’s specs or ask a professional.

Ref: American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) guidelines.

Types of Air Filters & What They’re Best For

Not all filters are created equal. Here’s your quick guide:

Fiberglass Filters

• Cheapest.
• Good for: Catching big dust bunnies.
• Not great for: Allergy relief or fine particles.

Pleated Filters

• Made of polyester or cotton folds.
• Good for: Homes with pets, pollen issues, or mild allergies.
• Last longer, trap more.

HEPA Filters

• The gold standard for trapping 99.97% of particles.
• Good for: Those with asthma, severe allergies, or medical needs.
• But: Not always compatible with standard home HVAC systems—may need system upgrades.

Washable (Reusable) Filters

• Eco-friendly.
• Rinse, dry, and reuse.
• Good for: Reducing waste.
• But: Can harbor mold if not dried properly.

Electrostatic Filters

• Use static electricity to grab particles.
• Good for: Homes with pets or smokers.
• Some are washable.

Choosing for Special Needs

• Pets: Go pleated or higher MERV.
• Allergies: HEPA or MERV 11+ (if your system allows).
• Commercial spaces: Often need higher MERV for code compliance.
• Construction dust or wildfire smoke: Go up a MERV level, check more often.

How Filters Impact Indoor Air Quality & System Efficiency

A clean filter is like fresh lungs for your HVAC. Dirty filters choke your system. That means:

• Lower air quality: More dust, pollen, and germs escape into your space.
• Reduced efficiency: System works harder, costs you more.
• Shorter equipment life: Fans and motors wear out quicker.

Health Matters

EPA studies show indoor air can be 2–5 times dirtier than outdoors. Poor filters let allergens, bacteria, and even viruses circulate. If you or your family have allergies, asthma, or immune issues, upgrading your filter really does make a difference.

Energy Savings

• A clogged filter = higher bills.
• Swapping a dirty filter for a clean one can cut your energy use by up to 15%. Over a year, that’s real money back in your pocket.

Ref: EnergyStar, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

How Often Should You Change Your Air Filter? ⏰

Here’s the million-dollar question. The answer depends on your filter type, system, and lifestyle.

• Fiberglass: Every 30 days.
• Pleated: Every 60–90 days.
• HEPA: Every 6–12 months (if compatible).
• Washable: Clean monthly.

Special situations? Change more often if:

• Pets shed a lot.
• Someone smokes inside.
• Construction, wildfire, or pollen season hits your area.
• Commercial kitchens or high-traffic businesses.

Pro tip: Can’t remember the last time you changed it? Change it now.

Allergy Relief: Real Advice from Briggs Heating

Sneezing more lately? Itchy eyes? Your air filter could be the culprit.

• Choose a MERV 11 or higher (if your system allows) for best allergen removal.
• Vacuum vents and floors often—filters can’t catch everything.
• Consider adding an air scrubber or dehumidifier for extra help.

If allergies are severe, talk with your doctor about additional air quality steps.

Practical Filter Selection & Installation Tips

• Measure first. Filters come in many sizes. Write yours down!
• Insert with airflow arrow pointing toward the blower.
• Label change dates on the filter with a marker.
• Keep a spare filter handy for emergencies.

If you’re unsure, call an emergency hvac pro for guidance—better safe than sorry.

What Can Go Wrong? Signs You Need Help

• Odd smells, weak airflow, or dust build-up? Act fast.
• HVAC system shutting off or running constantly? Dirty filters may be to blame.
• Allergy symptoms getting worse indoors? Your filter could be overdue for a change.

Safety Checklist: Before You Change That Filter 🛑

• Turn off your HVAC system.
• Wear gloves if you’re sensitive to dust.
• Check for signs of mold or moisture—if found, call in a pro.
• Never force a filter that doesn’t fit.

DIY or Call the Pros?

Changing a filter is DIY-friendly for most. But call Briggs Heating if:

• You’re unsure about size or type.
• The filter is hard to access.
• There’s visible mold or damage.
• Your system needs a deep clean or repair.

For commercial spaces, let licensed technicians handle regular HVAC maintenance and IAQ testing for code compliance.

What We Do When You Call Briggs Heating

When you contact us for emergency hvac or routine filter help, we:

• Inspect your HVAC system and filter slot.
• Check for leaks, blockages, or mold.
• Recommend the right filter for your needs.
• Install and test airflow, ensuring everything’s running smooth.

If you need advanced solutions—like air scrubbers, duct cleaning, or IAQ testing—we’ll explain your options clearly.

Maintenance & Prevention: Keep It Simple

• Mark filter change dates on your calendar or phone.
• Ask about subscription delivery for filters.
• Schedule seasonal HVAC maintenance. We’ll inspect, clean, and test everything so your system runs like a dream.
• Keep vents and returns clear of obstructions.

A little attention now saves money—and headaches—later.

Costs & Time Factors

• Basic filter: $5–$20.
• High-MERV or HEPA: $20–$100+.
• Commercial filters: Higher, but needed less often.

DIY change: 5–10 minutes. Professional visit: Quick, but may include full inspection for best results.

Neglecting filter changes? Could cost hundreds in system repairs, or worse, require emergency hvac visits.

When It’s an Emergency

• No airflow, burning smells, or system shutdowns? That’s urgent.
• Allergies or asthma suddenly worse? Filter may be the issue—but call us if symptoms are severe.
• If you don’t know what’s wrong, don’t risk it. Emergency hvac help is just a call away.

We’re here for you 24/7, ready for AC Repair near you at any hour.

FAQ: Your Air Filter Questions Answered

How do I know which MERV rating my system can handle?

Check your system’s manual or ask a certified technician. Too high a rating can block airflow.

Do higher MERV filters last longer?

Not always. They trap more, so in dusty environments, they may need changing sooner.

Will a better filter help with pet odors?

It helps, but for strong smells, consider additional solutions like air scrubbers.

Should businesses change filters more often than homes?

Usually, yes—especially in high-traffic or code-regulated settings.

Seasonal & Local Factors

• Spring: Pollen spikes call for tighter filters and frequent changes.
• Summer & winter: System runs more often, so check filters monthly.
• Wildfire season: Upgrade to a finer filter, check every few weeks.
• Urban areas: Pollution and construction dust mean more maintenance.
• Humid climates: Watch for mold on filters—replace right away.

Clean Air, Real Comfort, Better Savings

Choosing the right air filter isn’t rocket science—but it does matter. Health, savings, and comfort start with clean air.

Ready to upgrade your filter or need emergency hvac service? Your air—your peace of mind—matters.

Call Briggs Heating now — or reach us anytime at  877-748-7966 .