Filters and their Rating

AC maintenance in Sarasota includes regularly changing the AC filter; but changing it with what? This article will discuss the different "filter ratings", who determines them and how valid are they and in conclusion provide easy guidance.

MERV Rating

The major and most accepted standard for comparing filters is the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, or MERV. The industry accepts the MERV rating as one of the standard by which filters are rated for performance. Some of the points that are considered in rating a filter are airflow which is critical to system performance and ability to catch large and small particles.

MPR Rating

This is a rating system that was developed by 3M and stands for Micro- particle Performance Rating and is based on the filters ability to capture the smallest airborne particles from the air passing through the filter. The higher the MPR the better the filter's ability to capture these particles, but the more likely to restrict airflow.

Electrostatic Filters

The short term effectiveness of electrostatically charged filters is well known in the industry. This filter's capture rate does work well- for about a week or two. This because the electrostatic charge attracts and holds particles but as the surface of the filter becomes covered by particles the electrostatic benefit is gone.

Cleanable Generic Filters

<p>Sold under many names this filter consists of a light fame of metal or plastic with a foam core. These types of filters do not usually bear a rating but have an inherent problem in the core over time builds up particles that both reduce filtering efficiencies and airflow.</p>

Filters Are Easy!

In conclusion rely on the proven testing standards accepted industry wide like MERV or the recommendation of a certified air conditioning technician. The most important aspect of this article is to use the correct filter and change it on a regular basis for the health and well-being of tour system and your pocketbook.

If you would like additional information about air conditioning filters or need information about commercial or residential air conditioning service or installation, you are invited to call D & W Heating and Air Conditioning at (941) 202-0420 or visit them on the web at theairspecialist.com.