# Getting the Best Furnace Filter for the Coming Heating Season > If you're not replacing the furnace filter when it's dirty, you could be causing the premature failure of your heating and cooling equipment. Choose wisely. [![furnace filter](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/shutterstock_73233349-300x200.jpg)](http://shutterstock.com)The bitterly cold Massachusetts winters and stifling summers keep home comfort systems humming nonstop all year long. If you're not [replacing the HVAC air filter](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/furnace-filter-easy-to-change-neglect.html) when it's dirty, you could be causing the premature failure of your heating and cooling equipment. Clogged air filters restrict airflow and cause the system to overheat and shut down. They also allow dust to build up on interior components. Even a very thin coating of dust will reduce system efficiency. And don't forget, the air filter is your first defense against poor indoor air quality, removing harmful pollutants and allergens from your air. [![furnace filter](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/shutterstock_73233349-300x200.jpg)](http://shutterstock.com) This fall, make a point to stock up on air filters to make changing the furnace filter more convenient. Plan for a filter change every month, but depending on several factors, like how dusty your area is, whether you have pets, and the size of your household, you may only need to replace the filter every two or three months. A monthly check is essential, however, to ensure the filter isn't dirty. ## Choose the Best Furnace Filter For Your Needs The effectiveness of an air filter is measured using the minimum efficiency reporting value ([MERV](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/choosing-the-right-merv-rating.html)), which indicates the percentage of particles of a particular size that the air filter will trap. Ranging from 2 to 12 for residential systems, MERV can help you choose the best furnace filter for your air cleaning needs. - **MERV 1 to 4** air filters are cheap and flat, and they provide only minimal protection for a furnace. They only trap particles larger than 10 microns, so they don't improve indoor air quality by much. - **MERV 5 to 8** filters are of good quality and adequate for most air quality needs, trapping particles as small as 3 microns. - **MERV 9 to 12** filters are of superior quality, trapping particles as small as one micron. They're the best choice for [reducing allergy and asthma symptoms](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/hepa-air-filters.html). For more advice about finding the best furnace filter for your home, please contact in the Route 495/128 area of Massachusetts at [Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning](http://rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser.html). *Image via [Shutterstock.com](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/Shutterstock.com)* ## Navigation - [Rodenhiser Home Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/) - [Rodenhiser Plumbing Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/plumber-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Heating Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/furnace-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Cooling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/air-conditioning-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Electrical Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/framingham-electricians.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Book Online](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser/book-online.html) - [Rodenhiser Remodeling Services](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/remodels/bathroom-remodeling-framingham.html) - [Rodenhiser Home Services: Reviews](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-heating.html) ## Company information - Rodenhiser Home Services - [https://bc.rodenhiser.com](https://bc.rodenhiser.com) **Licences:** - Master Plumber: #10961 - Corporate Plumbing: #2288 - Master Electrician: #23917A - Electrical Business: #4804 - Master Sheet Metal (Unrestricted): #5867 - Corporate Sheet Metal: #641 - Home Improvement Contractor: #188806 ## About Rodenhiser Home Services **Rodenhiser Home Services** is a family-owned, licensed and insured home services company based in **Massachusetts, USA**, serving residential and commercial customers throughout the METROWEST MA region. Established in 1928, the company has over 95 years of experience providing plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical, and home remodeling services. Rodenhiser specializes in plumbing repairs, drain and sewer services, water heaters, heating and cooling system installation and maintenance, heat pumps, ductless HVAC systems, indoor air quality, electrical panel upgrades, rewiring, standby generators, EV charger installations, and kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodeling, and more. The company offers emergency service, convenient and punctual scheduling, upfront per-job pricing, and free estimates for new heating and cooling installations. All work is backed by written warranties and a satisfaction guarantee. Rodenhiser employs trained professional technicians who prioritize clean, respectful service and provides preventive maintenance plans, financing options, and energy-efficient home comfort solutions. Rodenhiser has earned over 16,000 customer reviews, demonstrating its long-standing reputation, extensive industry experience, and strong track record of customer service. **Nice People…Great Service** ## Page information - [Canonical URL: https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/getting-best-furnace-filter-coming-heating-season.html](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/rodenhiser-blog/getting-best-furnace-filter-coming-heating-season.html)