Furnace Filter Choices

Did you check your furnace filter before turning on the heat for the season? If not, you may want to do it now. Ordinary fiberglass furnace filters should be changed at least every 30 days, say the heating and air conditioning contractors who are members of the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) Upstate New York Chapter. High efficiency and other premium filters should be changed according to manufacturers’ directions. Filters that get excessive use should be changed more often.

It doesn’t take long to tire of changing filters every 30 days. When you total the cost at the end of the year, it probably equals of exceeds the cost of a high efficiency filter element.

There are many filter choices available today, according to ACCA Chapter Chair Paul Maier. Maier says the most popular alternative to ordinary filters is the “pleated media” filter. Pleating a special paper media provides more surface area to trap dirt and dust. While some pleated media filters fit the standard filter opening in the ductwork, the most popular requires a special opening because it is thicker than standard. Many of these filters only need changing about once a year.

Electronic air cleaners apply an electrical current to special filter media to attract and trap dirt and dust, thereby cleaning the air. Some filter media are impregnated with carbon to remove impurities and clean the air as it passes through. For the cleanest, most microbe-free air, a ultra-violet (UV) light can be added to the system to remove still more allergens and pollutants from the air.

For those who don’t want to worry about changing filters, a new company has developed a filter that has media on a roll. At periodic, pre-set intervals, it automatically advances with the dirty media being taken up into a take-up reel. A roll of media can last for up to two years.

As you can see, your choice of furnace filters is endless. Maier reminds us, however, that any filter is only effective when it is clean and the right amount of air can get through it. He also suggests asking an ACCA member contractor for cost and benefit information on the various types of filter before making a decision on upgrading your filter.

ACCA membership is your heating and air conditioning contractor’s symbol of quality. For even greater confidence, ask if your contractor employs technicians who are NATE certified in the services you need. For more information, visit www.accaupstateny.org.

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