Are cheap furnace filters ok?

Author: Carter Emard  |  Last update: Monday, September 8, 2025

A contractor knows cheap filters trap fewer particles floating in your air. A cheap furnace filter has a larger weaving for larger particles that affect your furnace operation. If you don't mind breathing smaller particles floating in your home then inspect the filter more often and replace when needed.

Are cheap furnace filters okay to use?

Short answer: It depends.

While cheap air filters can protect your furnace from large particles, they won't do much for your lungs and indoor air quality. If you're looking to improve the air you breathe, consider a higher-quality filter.

Is there a difference between cheap and expensive air filters?

Yes, more expensive air filters can make a difference, but the extent of that difference depends on several factors: Filtration Efficiency: Higher-priced filters often have better filtration ratings (like MERV ratings), which indicate their ability to capture smaller particles.

Is there a difference in the quality of furnace filters?

High-quality filters can remove very small airborne particles from your home's air, while others may barely remove dust. To keep your furnace running properly and to keep your air quality high, it is important to choose your furnace filter wisely.

Does it matter what air filter you use for furnace?

Choosing a Furnace Filter

It's also important to note that although a thicker filter will trap smaller particles, it will also decrease airflow. Slower airflow results in the unit having to work harder and therefore use more energy. This can reduce efficiency and lifespan, as well as increases your energy bill.

Should You Buy That More Expensive Air Filter?

Can I use any brand of furnace filter?

The brand of your air filter does matter.

These materials can include finer filter media that are more effective at capturing a wide range of airborne particles, including dust, pollen, pet dander, and allergens.

How often should I replace my furnace filter?

Our standard recommendation is as follows:
  1. For 1- to 2- inch filters, replace them every 1 to 3 months.
  2. For 3- to 4- inch filters, replace them every 6 to 9 months.
  3. For 5- to 6- inch filters, replace them every 9 to 12 months.

Do more expensive furnace filters last longer?

Expensive air filters are made from higher-quality materials, like fiberglass, that can last for up to 12 months. This not only saves you money, but it's also more convenient since you won't have to remember to replace your air filters as often.

Do air filter brands matter?

How Much Does Brand Matter? Different brands will offer different ranges of MERV ratings and filter sizes. More importantly, not all filters are built equal – the quality of the filter materials determines how long the product lasts and how consistent it is in performance.

Are 4 inch or 1 inch furnace filters better?

The four-inch-thick air filter has an advantage over the one-inch in terms of longevity, airflow and maximum filtering potential. If it fits your furnace, then a four-inch air filter will provide better air quality. The cost difference is often minimal.

How much should a good air filter cost?

Simply put, the higher the MERV rating for an air filter, the more you'll pay. Filters with a MERV rating of 1 to 7 typically cost between $5 and $20. Filters with ratings of 8 to 13 can cost anywhere from $20 to $150.

Why are Aprilaire filters so expensive?

Expensive air filters are made of better-quality materials than cheap air filters. They are often made of fiberglass, which is a porous material that can trap more dust and pollen than other materials like cardboard or paper. Fiberglass also resists moisture and does not tear as easily as other materials.

What MERV is best?

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.

Is it bad to not change your furnace filter?

Changing furnace filters is one critical task that is often skipped – to the detriment of your comfort and the performance of your home's heating and cooling equipment! With a dirty filter in place, you risk compromising your comfort, energy costs, and HVAC system.

Does MERV rating affect airflow?

Yes, higher MERV filters are more restrictive and reduce airflow. If you make adjustments to the HVAC system it can eventually handle the increased resistance.

Is a dirty furnace filter better than no filter?

NO. A furnace filter has a critical job to perform and a filter cannot be run without one. For a furnace to work properly, it should always be equipped with a clean, working filter. As we'll see, a dirty filter can cause problems, and so can having no filter at all.

Is it OK to buy cheap air filters?

If nobody in your home has allergies and you don't have pets or significant air quality concerns, for instance, an inexpensive filter can still be effective. The main drawback with cheaper filters is you'll need to replace them more often.

Do furnace filters really make a difference?

They have little to no impact on fine particulates like pollen and smoke, so they will not do much to ease respiratory issues. But even with their limitations, these filters aren't pointless. They prolong the life of your equipment and help keep it running efficiently in the heating and cooling seasons.

How often should I change my furnace filter 16x25x4?

As a result, it is important to change your 16x25x4 furnace filters at least every 3 months. You should also be aware of what types of 16x25x4 furnace filters are available and how often you need to change them based on their efficiency level.

Which type of air filter will last the longest?

Switch To Pleated Filters

Fiberglass air filters will get the job done, but in most cases, pleated air filters are much better. Pleated air filters capture smaller particles and are less likely to clog within a short period of time.

Are all furnace filters the same quality?

However, it's not just about changing the filter – it's about choosing the right filter for your specific HVAC system. Not all filters are created equal, and some high-efficiency filters – including HEPA filters – may actually do more harm than good for your system.

What happens if you haven't changed the furnace filter in a year?

Air filters that are overdue for a change are a common cause of HVAC system failure. Over time, dirt builds up in the heating and AC filters, causing components such as the motor to go into overdrive, which may eventually overheat your unit.

Can I clean my furnace air filter instead of replacing it?

Cleaning an air filter only has two additional steps from replacing one. Again, the first step is to turn off the HVAC system. Find the service panel, open the furnace, and then locate your filter and remove it from the furnace. From here, you'll want to place it dirty side up and gently vacuum the large debris.

How can I tell if my furnace filter needs changing?

Signs Your Furnace Filter Needs Changing
  1. There is noticeable discolouration on the filter.
  2. You can see the buildup of dirt and dust.
  3. You find your home needs dusting frequently.
  4. It seems your HVAC system is cycling longer.
  5. You realize it's been several months since you've replaced your filter.

Can I run my furnace without a filter for a few days?

Your furnace can, technically, run without a filter. However, we strongly recommend you don't run your furnace without a filter for any length of time. With air constantly moving through your furnace and your home, dust and debris can quickly build up, even in a matter of minutes.

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