He recommended these filters. The Filtrete 1000 MPR Micro allergen reduction filter is said to capture airborne dust, pollen, dust-mite debris, lint, mold spores, pet dander, smoke, smog, and bacteria electrostatically. The furnace seemed to like it and the flow from the vents seem unimpeded so we are happy with it.

If you have a carbon pre-filter screen to capture larger particles like pet dander and dust, that should be removed and rinsed gently with water each month.

We recommend changing your filter when the display reaches 0%. You can also opt-in to receive notifications on your phone when it's time to change your filter through the Filtrete™ Smart App. Our filter lasts up to 6 months*. *Based on 12 hours of operation per day and common use conditions.

Your filter's MPR (Microparticle Performance Rating) indicates its ability to capture tiny particles between 0.3 and 1 micron in size. The higher the MPR, the more microparticles - such as pollen, pet dander, smoke, bacteria and viruses - your filter will capture from the air passing through it.

HEPA Filter HVAC replacement companies typically recommend HEPA filters because they can provide the highest protection level when it comes to airborne particles. This filter is capable of capturing small microns, and has a MERV rating between 17 and 20, meaning it can trap tobacco smoke and bacteria.

The best HVAC filters: Reviews & Recommendations

• Best overall: Aerostar 20x25x1 MERV 13 Pleated Air Filter.
• Best for pets: Colorfil 20x25x1 MERV 8 Air Filter.
• Best for odors: Flanders 16x16x1 NaturalAire with Baking Soda.
• Best for allergies: AIRx Filters Allergy 20x25x1 MERV 11 Pleated Air Filter.

A dirty filter can cause allergens to build up in your duct system, and they'll linger there for months. Whenever you have a forced-air system running, those allergens will be released into the air you breathe. You might even end up with a mold problem in the ducts.

Yes, some kinds of filters are washable! That means that instead of getting rid of your air filter when its three months are up, you can wash the dust and debris off and place the filter back into your HVAC system. Not all filters are reusable, so make sure you have a washable filter before running it underwater.

How do you know it's time for an air filter replacement?

1. Your allergy or asthma symptoms worsen.
2. The airflow from your machine doesn't seem as powerful.
3. You notice unpleasant, musty, or moldy odors in the air.
4. Your home or office is looking dustier than usual.
5. You see more pet dander moving around.

If you don't change your air filter, it can quickly become clogged with dust and debris, preventing proper air filtration. This leads to a variety of issues for your HVAC system including system inefficiency, higher energy bills, inadequate air quality, and ultimately failure.

MERV Rating 8-13 Filters with a MERV rating of 8-13 are usually higher-end filters for home use or high-quality commercial filters. These filters are typically the right choice for use in homes and many businesses.

MERV 11 and 13 MERV 11 and 13 Air Filters - Air filters with a Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating of 11 and 13 can remove smoke particles from the air. Anything below that may not be sufficient for any type of smoke.