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Filters 101

What is an air filter?

An air filter is an essential, low-effort device that is built as a frame and holds within it a screen of extremely small and tightly packed fibers. They are used in all heat and air conditioning systems and their primary purpose is to trap and

What heating or air conditioning (HVAC) systems are Windmill Filters for?

Windmill Filters are for central air HVAC systems or for any heat or air conditioning systems that support our sizes. Click here to see our list of sizes

Do I need an air filter?

All central air HVAC systems require an air filter to function. While cheaper, fiberglass filters only protect your HVAC from dust and debris, Windmill filters are also specialized in cleaning microscopic particles from the air you breathe at home

How does an air filter work?

Short Answer: When you turn on your AC, air is sucked in through your vents, and then passes through the air filter, which captures unwanted particles and contaminants. That now filtered air is then heated or cooled, and is then pushed back out of

What are the benefits of an air filter?

Air Filters have 3 primary benefits. Windmill Filters:. Air Filters have 3 primary benefits:. Health Benefits. Air filters clean the air you breathe at home, delivering many health benefits to you and your loved ones. Clean air isn't just good decrea

Why do I need to change my air filter?

Eventually, after about 2-3 months, the air filter will clog with so much gunk (after capturing so many particles and contaminants) that it must be replaced in order to maintain proper airflow in your HVAC unit. Just think about how hard it is to bre

When should I change my air filter?

While the general rule of thumb is to replace your filter every 2-3 months, every home is a sanctuary, and not all sanctuaries are alike. You may have pets, suffer from allergies, have kids kicking up dust, or cook like a pro chef! Because the life o

Where is the air filter in my home?

Short answer: If you have central air, your air filter is most commonly found in A) a wall OR ceiling behind a large grate/vent or B) next to your furnace or air handler, which is usually found in a basement, attic, or utility closet Long Answer: Air

Can I use a HEPA filter in my furnace?

We wouldn�t recommend it. HEPA filters are able to filter out even the very smallest particles. Because of that though, it�s hard for air to pass through HEPA filters, which doesn�t make them a good option for your whole-home HVAC system. By not

What is MERV? What about MFR and FPR?

Short Answer: MERV, MFR, and FPR, are reporting standards for filter efficiencies. Basically, the higher the rating, the more the device filters out. Just keep in mind that the more you try to filter, the harder it is for air to pass through the

How does where you live affect what air filter I should use?

When thinking about what air filter you should use, seasonal patterns (like allergies or wildfires) and your local AQI (or Air Quality Index) have a huge impact on how the air outside affects you at home. Additionally, according to the EPA

Why are there different size air filters?

Short answer: Actual sizes are the exact dimensions of the filter (i.e. if you were to measure it with a tape measure), while nominal sizes are the filter dimensions rounded-UP. Long answer: Just when you thought air filters weren�t confusing enough

How do I know my air filter size?

You can find your air filter size in three ways: Check the frame of your old filter (most common). The size should be printed on it. If there are two measurements, use the rounded up figures as your reference. Measure your old filter (with a tape

What is the difference between fiberglass and pleated air filters?

Short answer: Fiberglass filters serve only one purpose, and that is to protect your furnace or air conditioning system from particulate build up. Pleated filters not only also protect your system from this gunk, but they also significantly improve

What is the difference between an Air Filter and an Air Purifier?

Short answer: The key difference is that an air purifier is a separate device used to clean the air of a single, specific room, whereas an air filter is instead a necessary component of your HVAC system that is used to protect your unit and clean the