What Filters to Use for Your Central Heat Pump? A Practical Guide for Purified Air

Effective Filtration: The Key to Optimal Air Quality in Your HVAC System

At AirGreen, we know that the performance of your central heat pump isn't only dependent on its energy efficiency or BTU power. One often overlooked, yet crucial component is the filter used in your HVAC system. This seemingly minor part plays a vital role in indoor air quality, equipment longevity, and your respiratory well-being, especially in densely populated areas like Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, the North Shore, and the South Shore.

In this article, we guide you through the recommended filter types, their maintenance frequency, the specific benefits of each model, as well as the best practices to follow based on your environment. You’ll also find real-life examples from our fieldwork, where choosing the right filters made all the difference.

Why Is Filter Choice So Critical for Your Central Heat Pump?

A filter acts as a barrier between the outside air (which carries dust, allergens, pollutants, mold) and the air you breathe in your home or business. It also prevents these particles from clogging the internal components of your system, which could reduce its lifespan and hinder its performance.

Choosing the wrong filter or having a clogged filter can lead to:

• Reduced energy efficiency

• Decreased airflow

• Unusual noises

• Premature motor wear

• Poor indoor air quality, leading to headaches, allergies, or general discomfort

Types of Filters for Central Heat Pumps: Comparison and Recommendations

We distinguish several types of filters, each with different functions, costs, and efficiencies. Here are the most commonly used ones during our installations or replacements in Montreal, Laval, and the surrounding areas.

Fiberglass Filters (Disposable)

• Advantages: Economical, easy to find, protects basic equipment from large particles

• Disadvantages: Low efficiency against allergens, needs frequent replacement

• Recommended for: Homes with low dust or allergen exposure

Pleated Filters (MERV 7 to 13)

• Advantages: Excellent at trapping dust, mold spores, pet dander, and pollen

• Efficiency: Depends on the MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating

• Disadvantages: Higher air resistance (check compatibility with your unit)

• Recommended for: Homes with children, elderly residents, or those suffering from asthma

Electrostatic Filters (Washable or Disposable)

• Advantages: Capture particles using electrostatic charge, some are reusable

• Disadvantages: Requires careful maintenance to maintain efficiency

• Recommended for: Urban environments like central Montreal, or near busy roadways

HEPA Filters (High-Efficiency Particulate Air)

• Advantages: Capture up to 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns

• Disadvantages: Not compatible with all standard HVAC systems without adaptation

• Recommended for: Medical settings, or homes highly sensitive to allergies (custom installation possible by AirGreen)

MERV Rating: A Key Indicator

Each filter has a MERV rating, ranging from 1 to 16, which evaluates its ability to trap different types of particles. Here’s a simplified overview:

AirGreen generally recommends MERV 11 to 13 filters, as they offer an excellent balance between filtration and airflow for the central heat pumps we install (Fujitsu, Bosch, Goodman, Lennox, etc.)

Real Examples: The Impact of a Good Filter in Our Montreal Area Projects

Laval – Bosch BOVA Installation

In a recent residential project in Chomedey, we installed a Bosch BOVA 36,000 BTU central heat pump in a two-story home. The client had complained about frequent congestion. We recommended a MERV 13 pleated filter compatible with the Bosch airflow system. Two months later, the client contacted us to thank us: air quality had significantly improved, and the symptoms had disappeared.

Longueuil – Pet-Friendly Home

In Longueuil, a family with two large dogs was facing odor and allergy issues. During the maintenance of their Goodman system, we replaced their old fiberglass filter with a high-efficiency electrostatic washable filter. The result: eliminated odors, fewer pet hairs in the ducts, and a quieter system.

How Often Should You Change Your Filter?

An neglected filter is just as harmful as a bad filter. Here are the general recommendations:

• Fiberglass filters: every 30 days

• Pleated MERV 7–13 filters: every 60 to 90 days

• Washable electrostatic filters: monthly cleaning

• HEPA or custom filters: according to the maintenance schedule set with AirGreen

AirGreen Tip: In regions with more dust, pets, or pollen, like certain areas of North Shore or South Shore, check your filter every month, even if you have a long-lasting model.

Mistakes to Avoid at All Costs

• Ignoring the manufacturer’s specifications for the heat pump

• Buying overly restrictive filters that hinder good airflow

• Cleaning washable filters with harsh products

• Neglecting to replace the filter during peak heating or cooling seasons

At AirGreen, our technicians always inspect your filters during maintenance visits or new installations and provide tailored solutions based on your environment and budget.

AirGreen: Your Reference for Indoor Air Quality and HVAC Maintenance in Montreal and Surrounding Areas

We believe that healthy indoor air begins with simple, tailored actions: a good filter, a well-maintained system, and personalized advice from qualified professionals. Every day, we help families, building managers, and businesses in Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, North Shore, and South Shore, improve their indoor air quality.

For any questions about filter choices or to schedule a maintenance visit for your HVAC system, contact our team. Our experts are ready to guide you with transparency, expertise, and precision.