Filtration Class From Mast Heating & Cooling is now in Session

“Class, class, pay attention now. This is the most important thing you will learn today: Changing filters regularly is the single most important thing you can do to make sure your HVAC systems in Holland, MI function efficiently and last as long as possible.” Your friends at Mast Heating & Cooling are very serious about the lesson we’re trying to teach and we’re certainly not alone. During the peak of the cooling and heating seasons, Energy Star recommends changing your air filter every month. At the very least, change your filters every three months.

Now back to class: “Jimmy in the back row, you have a question?” “Yes, why is changing a filter so important?” Thank you Jimmy and we’re glad you asked. A dirty filter is the most common reason a heating and air conditioning system breaks down. A dirty filter means more resistance to air flow, making the fan motor work harder wasting, energy and reducing heating and cooling efficiency. Changing filters on a regular schedule can cut your utility bills by 5 to 15 percent. Dirt also means more wear and tear, causing failures, requiring A/C repairs on your home in Holland, MI and reducing the life of the systems.

“Carol, it looks like you have a question as well.” “Yes, how do I know which filter is best for my system? There are so many different sizes and types it’s confusing.” Mast Heating & Cooling completely understands. First and most importantly, the filter has to be the exact size the manufacturer requires. Any sort of gap, even a half-inch, allows unfiltered or dirty air to bypass the filter, defeating the entire purpose. When shopping, look at the MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) number, which ranges from 1 to 16. The higher the number, the denser the filter is, meaning it will filter smaller particles.

“What was that Carl, I didn’t hear what you said?” “Well then shouldn’t I always buy the highest rated filter because it’s going to be better right?” Unfortunately, it’s not quite that simple. The filter has to be matched to your heating and cooling systems. Some don’t have the power to move air through the highest rated filters. If the filter is too dense, it restricts airflow so much that your system has to work harder just like it does when the filter is dirty. As a general rule, Mast Heating & Cooling recommends filters with a MERV rating from 7 to 12. Anything higher than that is generally designed for commercial or medical systems. If you have any doubts, call us and we’ll tell you what filter we recommend for your specific system, and handle any other air conditioning maintenance in Holland, MI or the surrounding area.

“Class, any more questions? Well then thank you so much for listening and remember filtration, filtration, filtration. It’s the key to HVAC efficiency and long-life for your heating and cooling systems. Consider this class from Mast Heating & Cooling dismissed!”