Are More Expensive HVAC Filters Actually Worth the Money?

When you’re at the home improvement store and looking to buy a new filter for your HVAC system, you’re likely to find a wide range of options. Some filters claim to filter dust, lint, and pet dander. Others add mold spores, bacteria, viruses, and even odors to the list of filtered particulate. You’ll find that to filter out each of these increasingly small particles, you’ll have to pay more for your filter—sometimes, 50 to 100% more than for a basic one.

So, are these fancier filters worth it? We think a filter of a certain quality, that can filter dust, bacteria, and mold spores is worth it. Above that, more expensive filters are only worth it if you have particular needs, such as the need to control allergens in your home due to particular allergies. Otherwise, you’re better off going with one of the cheaper options, and sticking to changing your filters more often. Most people are not great at sticking to the usual recommended schedule of changing the furnace filter every three months.

Another reason you might not want the absolute highest level filter is that the smaller pore size of the filter means that your HVAC system might have to work harder to get air through the filter. It should not be a big consideration for most systems, but if your HVAC system is a bit older, you may not want to put the extra strain on it.

Have a question about what kind of filter will work best with your HVAC system? We are happy to let you know our recommendation. Get in touch with us today!

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