Your air filter is an important part of you HVAC system. It keeps your system free of debris that can damage the sensitive interior parts. The filter also catches the particulates that float around in our air that we would otherwise breathe in. Maintaining and choosing the right air filter for your air conditioner is not difficult. The professionals at Bartlett Heating and Air want you to know this simple step will lead to better performance in your air conditioner and lower energy costs. The filter’s MERV rating is important but there are other key values to notice as well. A filter’s resistance, also known as pressure drop, makes an impact on your system’s air flow. You want to make sure you choose one with a low pressure value. This will increase the air flow making your system run more efficiently saving you money on your energy bill. Another factor is the filter’s dust holding capacity. The better the filter holds, the better your air will be. The pressure drop efficiency will change when you have excess dust in the filter so make sure you change it every six weeks. MERV ratings go anywhere from 2 to 3 for typical residential filters to 20 which are the kind found in clean rooms. Higher MERV ratings trap more allergens and dirt but can restrict the air flow in your HVAC system so be careful about using them. Choosing the right filter will contribute to better performance in your air conditioner as well as lower energy costs. Regular clean and checks should be done by the professionals at Bartlett Heating and Air as well! Call Bartlett Heating and Air today to let us help you choose the best filter for your home needs!