With our homes sealed tight against the cold, our heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems work overtime throughout winter. The air filter, a silent but vital component of this system, plays a critical role in ensuring that the warm air circulating inside our space is clean and healthy. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the best HVAC filter for the winter season?

Air filters: a hidden hero

Before we delve into advice on selecting the best HVAC filter for winter, it is crucial to understand the role of these components in maintaining a clean, safe and healthy interior space.

During winter, our homes are more closed up, reducing the ventilation and potentially affecting the quality of the indoor air. The air produced by your furnace circulates through the HVAC filter multiple times a day. In most homes, this translates to at least 2,000 cubic feet of air every minute. Therefore, the filter you use plays an essential role in removing airborne particles, ensuring system efficiency, and safeguarding your health.

When it comes to selecting an air filter that’s going to provide ultimate performance throughout the season, there’s a few key elements you should consider before arriving at a decision. To make that decision-making process as easy as possible, we’ve picked out 3 essentials.

Factor #1: filter quality

The HVAC filter is perhaps one of the most underrated components of your heating and cooling system. Here is a 3-point checklist to make sure you’re ready for winter:

1. Materials: Filters made of fiberglass are the most basic and are often the least expensive. While they can trap larger airborne particles, their primary purpose is to protect the HVAC system's components from debris. For improving indoor air quality, these might not be your best bet. Pleated filters made from polyester or cotton can trap smaller particles, making them more effective in cleaning the air.
2. Design: A deeper pleat can allow for better airflow while also providing more area to trap particles. Moreover, a tight weave or mesh ensures smaller particles are trapped, but balance is key; too tight, and it can impede airflow, leading to inefficiencies in the HVAC system.
3. Longevity: High-quality filters are generally more durable and can last longer than their inexpensive counterparts. This means fewer replacements, leading to cost savings in the long run.

Factor #2: think MERV

During the colder months, homes tend to be sealed tighter to conserve heat. While this can lead to warmer interiors, it can also mean less fresh air exchange, allowing contaminants to accumulate. A filter with an appropriate MERV rating can help reduce the concentration of these pollutants, ensuring the air you breathe is cleaner and healthier.

In the winter season, we recommend going for a rating of at least MERV 10 in your home. Here are some special winter considerations when it comes to MERV ratings:

1. Increased usage: With the furnace running more frequently in winter, filters can get dirty faster. This means filters, especially those with higher MERV ratings, might need more frequent checking and possibly changing.
2. Health concerns: Winter is also flu season. If there's concern about viruses and other pathogens, opting for a higher MERV-rated filter can offer added peace of mind.
3. Balancing efficiency with airflow: While higher MERV filters capture more particles, they can also restrict airflow. In winter, when the HVAC system works overtime, it's essential to ensure that the chosen filter doesn't strain the system or decrease its efficiency.

Factor #3: striking a balance

When considering air filtration, it's natural to assume that the highest MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating translates to the best air quality. While, in theory, a higher MERV rating captures more and smaller particles, it's essential to approach super high MERV ratings with caution. Here's why:
• Restricted airflow: Filters with extremely high MERV ratings are denser to trap the tiniest particles. While they do an excellent job at this, they also restrict airflow. Reduced airflow can strain your HVAC system, leading to decreased efficiency, higher energy bills, and potential long-term damage to the system.
• Increased energy consumption: When airflow is restricted, HVAC systems have to work harder, leading to more energy consumption. This is not only bad for the environment but can also spike your energy bills.
• System compatibility: Not all HVAC systems are designed to handle filters with super high MERV ratings. Using an incompatible filter can reduce the system's life and even void warranties in some cases.

Consult with the Professionals at Brookaire

Remember, the highest rating doesn't always equate to the best choice for every household. Assess your home's needs, consult with professionals, and find the MERV rating that provides both efficient filtration and optimal system performance. For a free consultation with your trusted HVAC partners, contact Brookaire today .