# Just How Efficiently Can A Furnace Filter Function?

> Being locked inside our Massachusetts homes during summer heat and frigid winter temperatures means we're also locked up with indoor contaminants. Furnace filters can help to keep indoor air quality a...

Being locked inside our Massachusetts homes during summer heat and frigid winter temperatures means we're also locked up with indoor contaminants. Furnace filters can help to keep indoor air quality at acceptable levels, and it also keeps the furnace clean. To select an efficient furnace filter, you should know what efficiency ratings to look for:

- **MERV:** This is the best method for rating the filtration quality of any furnace filter. MERV, or *Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value,* rates a filter's ability to trap particles. Most particles are so small that the human eye cannot see them, and they are measured via microns.
- **Pressure Drop:** This rating shows how well a filter maintains airflow. When a filter is dirty (or full), the pressure drop increases and the furnace's efficiency decreases. When a filter is clean, the pressure drop decreases and the furnace's efficiency increases. Therefore, you'll want to select a filter with the lowest pressure drop rating possible.
- **Dust Holding Capacity:** This metric reveals the filter's capacity to hold dust within a particular pressure drop. Don't compare filters with different dust holding capacity pressure drops, as you'll be comparing their efficiency at different airflow levels.
- **Initial and Sustained Efficiency:** A filter is rated in its "initial" state to show how well it works before used; then, a filter's sustained rating shows its efficiency over its lifetime of use (generally a month or two).
 

How will understanding these ratings help you select a filter? It's all about airflow and particles:

Choosing a filter that is very dense means it can trap the tiniest particles, but it will restrict airflow. Your equipment needs to "breathe." If it doesn't, you are (a) overworking your furnace, (b) reducing your equipment's efficiency and, (c) not cleaning the air effectively. Therefore, a furnace filter has to walk a fine line between density and airflow, and you can use these ratings (and your system's manufacturer's guide) to select the right furnace filter.

If you need help with finding the proper filter for your equipment, [contact Rodenhiser](http://www.rodenhiser.com/call-rodenhiser.html). It's our business to know how your home comfort equipment should operate for maximum efficiency.

***Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about* *furnace filters **and other HVAC topics, download our free [Home Comfort Solutions Guide](https://bc.rodenhiser.com/download-the-home-comfort-solutions-guide.html).*****

***Rodenhiser Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning serves the Route 495/128 area of Massachusetts. [Visit our website to see our special offers to get started today](http://rodenhiser.com/)!***

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## 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.

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