College Of Filter Knowledge

Different filter types and constructions filter out different types of particles, including dust, smoke, smells, even microparticles that bacteria and viruses can attach to.

Filtration performance is measured by MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value), a standardized scale that runs from 1-16, with 16 being the highest.

For most home and light commercial systems a MERV rating of 8 provides good filtration without impeding air flow. (Air flow is very important. Read the next tab.)

The second part of the performance puzzle is air flow. To work, your HVAC or ventilation system has to move air. If the filter slows down the air too much, the system works too hard, wears out faster, and uses more energy than necessary. 

So a high MERV filter doesn’t always mean better—it may be worse because not enough air circulates.

Air flow is determined by resistance, called the “Water Gauge” measurement.

Our Infinite Gold MERV 8 filter has one of the best air flow factors in the industry. The Water Gauge measurement is .14, compared to .22 for other MERV 8 filters—36% better air flow with the same filtering ability as comparable filters.

Air flow also contributes to the energy efficiency of the system. If your system is working harder than necessary to move air, it uses more energy. It can also wear out faster, or even fail.

So good air flow is critical. If a filter impedes air flow too much, it creates pressure drop within the system, and the energy demand goes way up. These energy spikes can be very costly—in fact, in some areas, if your energy usage spikes over a certain level during peak periods, you actually pay a higher rate. So your filter has to filter—and flow.

Most disposable filters have to be replaced after 90 days. But washable, reusable filters can be used many times before they have to be replaced.

That saves money, and it keeps material out of the landfill, so it’s a greener solution.

Our washable filters maintain their performance even have multiple cleanings. So you don’t lose efficiency. You just save money.

Golden Filters offers both disposable and washable filter options that provide excellent performance.