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Air Quality Myth: The Furnace/AC Filter Isn’t for Cleaning Your Air!


We put a lot of focus on reminding our customers about regularly changing their HVAC system’s air filter. This filter is usually located at the point where the return air duct connects to the HVAC system cabinet near the blower. When the blower runs in connection with either the furnace or the AC (or heat pump if you use one), the filter stops contaminants that come in through the return air vents along with the air. This protects that interior of HVAC system and helps it obtain a long service life.

However… and this is a misunderstanding we often encounter… this filter is not designed to improve the quality of a home’s air! The filter is not created to remove contaminants that might move through the rest of the house. Yes, it can have a minor effect on this, but if your home has significant issues with air contaminants, the furnace/AC filter isn’t going to do you any good.

How can I improve the air quality?

There are many methods, starting with an air filtration system. These are the specialized filters that will actually benefit your air quality. They’re designed not only to trap contaminants moving through them, but it actually draws them to the various fibers. These filters must be professionally installed because their filtering efficiency (measured as MERV rating) has to be matched to the HVAC system, or else the filter’s thickness can impede air flow.

Air filters are not always sufficient, however. There may be other contaminants, such as volatile organic compounds, gases, smoke, and bacteria that can get through the filters—and going for a more powerful filter isn’t always a choice. In these cases, you can pair the filter with an electronic air cleaner. For example, there’s the Lennox PureAir™ Purification System that we offer. There are other choices, and you only have to contact us to find the best way to solve your air quality issues.

Raleigh Heating & Air, Inc. is here to handle your indoor air quality needs in Apex, NC. Serving Wake County and the Surrounding Areas for Over 20 years.

Raleigh Heating & Air