I come from the land of the worst air quality in the country, so this post — brought to you and contributed by an outside writer — hits close to home. Some things are worth investing in if they’re quality, and air filters are one of those things.

Good indoor air quality is a concern for many homeowners. AC filters remove harmful particulates from the indoor air, improving the air quality. Filters also help boost the AC system’s performance. There are several types of AC filters, each with pros and cons. High-quality AC filters typically have a high MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating. While high-quality AC filters can be expensive, they offer many benefits. Here is why you should invest in quality AC filters.

Benefits of a High-Quality AC Filter

High-quality AC filters use innovative technology and are made from high-quality materials for maximum AC performance and filtration. As a result, they do a better job of capturing all types of airborne contaminants—including dust, debris, pollen, mold, hair, pet dander, and bacteria. Benefits of high-quality AC filters include:

Prevent Frequent Breakdowns and Repairs

Flat-paneled air filters are typically the standard AC filters found in residential settings. These filters do not have a lot of surface area, so they get clogged quickly. When an AC filter gets clogged, it increases the strain on other parts of the HVAC system, causing them to work hard to reach the required efficiency level. This can lead to frequent repairs and eventually cause the HVAC system to break down. Using a high-quality AC filter can help minimize the need for frequent replacement or maintenance service and help prevent problems that require repairs.

Improve Indoor Air Quality

All types of AC filters can catch dust and debris circulating in the air, but those are not the only types of harmful particles present in the air. High-quality AC filters can filter out even the smallest particles, such as pollen, mold spores, and other allergens. This would improve indoor air quality, making it comfortable for everyone—especially people sensitive to air quality.

TIP: If you want a filter that catches viruses (like COVID,) look for one that can remove particles as small as 0.1-1 um.

Cost Effectiveness

Standard AC filters require a replacement every one to three months. Still, high-quality AC filters have increased surface area, which allows them to remain effective for several months, helping you save money on replacement costs. High-quality AC filters can also improve the energy efficiency of the AC unit, allowing you to save money on utility bills.

Choosing a Quality AC Filter

There are many types of AC filters, all having different capabilities. For example, there are washable air filters that can save you money on replacement costs because they are reusable. But these filters can be susceptible to mold growth and may be less effective at removing certain pollutants. Washable filters must be dried thoroughly before reinstallation, and even the slightest amount of moisture in these filters can foster mold growth which can also spread to the ductwork.

HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are generally regarded as one of the most high-quality AC filters due to their capability of filtering out 80% to 90% of particles in the air. These filters are thicker than other options but may not be the best choice for most residential homes as the thickness of the filter can obstruct airflow. To view various types of air filters and learn which is right for you, visit FilterKing.