Home Improvement

Why You Should Upgrade Your Air Filter

Whether you’re moving into a new home, or you are wondering how to improve the air quality of your existing space, it may be time to consider an upgrade to your residential air filter. Different filters offer benefits to your home that apply more to certain situations than others. Those with pets, for example, may opt for something to reduce odors or allergens. The right air filter depends on your circumstances, including how often you want to change your unit. Read on for tips on how to buy the right filter the first time.

Allergens and Particulates

Filtrete filters are designed to capture allergens using charged particles within its threading. These atoms attract particles with a negative charge. Other weaves help to block against pollen and other forms of allergens that seep in from the outside. Without these filters, you home would continue circulating allergens while you slept. That has huge effects on your waking life, the least of which being a bad case of the sneezes. Allergens can cause headaches, drowsiness and make it much more difficult to just get through your day.

Air Quality

The general air quality in your home includes moisture levels in addition to allergens. One of the things your HVAC unit does is dissipate moisture in the air and remove dust particles. The end result is an easier time breathing, which is directly connected to better sleep. If the filter is clogged, that also means your HVAC is working overtime to perform the same work. Cleaning or replacing your home air filter is a part of regular maintenance of the unit, usually performed three to four times per year.

Smells and Odors

Some filters are built with the purpose of blocking odors from circulating through the home. These units are most helpful to those who have pets, are smokers or have something else contributing to odors in the home. This is one of the reasons you have a vent above your stove, with a filter already inserted. These filters are common for dealing with strong cooking odors, but may need to be replaced more frequently than the average filter does.

Final Thoughts

You may see dust or debris on the filter, or notice some discoloration. These are sure signs that you are in need of a replacement. If you are a recent home owner, the air filter should be one of the first places you check when you move in. Don’t forget to turn the unit on before summer either, so you can check its status and perform your repairs before it gets too hot.