The First Mistake Is Buying Too Many Air Filters

All air filters become more effective as they gradually become "loaded" with dust. Trying to get better cleaning efficiency with frequent changes works contrary to the desired results, and just increases your operating cost.

Air filters should be changed according to the manufacturer's recommended maximum resistance to air flow, which can easily be determined from an inexpensive filter gauge.

Not Considering Your Actual Labor Or Installation Cost

Some air filters do last longer than others because of their ability to hold more dust. This is due to the type of filtering material, effective media area, quality of construction, etc.

Of course, longer lasting air filters do have a higher initial cost; but because of less frequent replacements, your maintenance budget will show a substantial savings.

Buying The Wrong Efficiency Air Filter

Air filters are rated by The American Society of Heating Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers on their ability to remove a percentage of the "staining" properties of normal atmospheric impurities such as cigarette smoke. This atmospheric efficiency rating can be near zero or as high as 99%. Cost will be an increasing factor with efficiency.

Many times your efficiency choices are limited because of mechanical equipment design or industry regulations. Always try to get the most efficiency for your dollars.

Forgetting That Total Energy Costs Are Directly Related To Your Air Filtration Choice

Dirt build up within HVAC equipment reduces the system's heating or cooling capacity and adversely affects the units ability to produce the correct air volumes required for the building. The direct results are higher energy bills, costly maintenance and perhaps the ultimate replacement of equipment.

For pennies per month, proper air filtration will produce optimum functioning equipment, as designed, at the lowest operating cost.

Accepting Unacceptable Long Range Results

Take your air filtration program seriously. Are you cleaning coils often, repainting or washing supply air diffusers? Then you can't be pleased with your air filter choice. The average service call costs about $90.00 and is more often the direct result of poor air filtration than any other single cause.

Review your air filtration requirements with a qualified sales representative; and become familiar with new products that are designed to make your life easier.

Not Specifying Exactly What You Want

How much does an air filter cost? Well, it depends on the atmospheric efficiency, expected service life and the quality of construction. Don't forget to add in the labor cost, coil cleaning, stocking, etc.

There's a lot you can do to reduce these costs, but it does not necessarily start with the reduction in the initial cost of air filters. Find out what your needs are and be specific when you purchase.