When was the last time you changed the air filter in your furnace or HVAC unit? Depending upon the filter and type, if you can't remember, then it is probably time to do something.

Here are a few facts about air filters:

• Spun glass filters only stop about 10% of the dirt and need to be changed every 30 days! What happens to the rest of the dirt? Check your coils and ductwork! Can we say Yeech?
• Dirty air filters of any type can greatly reduce the efficiency of your system. It has to work harder to either heat or cool your home, wasting energy and also can reduce the life of the unit. Dirty air filters can also lead to cracked heat exchangers in gas-fired units.
• Washable type media is OK if the media opening is sized appropriately. Some washable medias such as the one in the background are too restrictive when clean much less dirty. If you are using such a media, consider replacing.
• Paper medias which can be purchased in most home improvement stores, in my opinion is the best. Depending upon the type and manufacturer, these medias need to be replaced every 30-90days.
• The BEST type of media is the 4" thick media. The initial cost is higher, but these can last about 9 months to a year depending upon size and application. Search for Honeywell Return Air Media using your search engine browser.
• MERV ratings are important. The higher the MERV rating the better the filter is at trapping dirt and and other air-borne contaminants. The minimum MERV rating I suggest is 8.

If you find this information helpful, feel free to pass it on to a friend or colleague.

This posting and the continents written here are the intellectual property of Michael Thornton of Complete Home Inspections, Inc. providing Nashville home inspections for Brentwood and the Davidson and Williamson Counties of Middle Tennessee. The views and opinions expressed are just that - views and opinions of Michael Thornton and those who comment.  This post is part of the ActiveRain Real Estate Network, which is a social network highlighting the best of Web 2.0.  Information is provided with the intent of educating and assisting home owners, home sellers, home buyers, real estate investors, and real estate professionals with information the can be used to make better real estate decisions. 

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