Cheap vs. Expensive Air Filters: Why Price Matters

Did you just check your HVAC air filter to discover it’s clogged with dust and dirt? You should replace it to improve airflow and reduce the strain on your heating and cooling equipment. As you browse the air filter replacement aisle at the store, you may encounter a vast difference in prices. So now you’re wondering, does more expensive mean better, or will a cheap air filter do the trick? Find out why an HVAC air filter is even necessary and what the price tells you about quality.

Why Do You Need an Air Filter?

Differences between Cheap and Expensive Air Filters

As tempting as those cheap filters are, they can’t match the performance and longevity of their costlier counterparts. Consider the primary differences between cheap and expensive air filters to help you understand why they could be worth the investment.

Cheap Filters Can’t Remove Fine Particles

Poor performance is the number one reason cheap air filters fall short. They may capture large dust particles that could damage your HVAC equipment, but smaller pollutants like pet dander and pollen slip through. And you can forget about the tiniest particles, like smoke and microorganisms, which only the highest-rated filters can trap.



A higher price tag means a higher minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV), equating to an enhanced ability to trap contaminants. The best air filters are pleated, which creates a larger surface area to capture more unwanted pollutants. The tighter weave also allows only the smallest particles to pass through. This increased effectiveness is particularly valuable for people who have allergies and asthma or in homes with pets.

Cheap Filters Don’t Last as Long

The initial low cost of a cheap air filter is tempting, but the long-term expense can sneak up on you. Made from less durable materials, these filters are prone to damage when exposed to moisture and heat. The need for more frequent replacements increases your maintenance efforts and makes cheap filters less economical than you thought.

While a more expensive air filter requires an investment, you’re paying for quality and longevity. Sturdy construction makes high-end filters less prone to damage, meaning they maintain their integrity and filtration capabilities longer, leading to less frequent air filter replacements.

Is a Cheap or Expensive Filter Right for You?

Deciding between a cheap and expensive air filter should not be taken lightly, as it affects your indoor air quality and the long-term financial investment in your home’s HVAC system.

For the budget-conscious homeowner, it’s tempting to choose the cheaper option. These filters do what they were intended to do—they stop dust from settling on delicate heating and cooling components. If your home doesn’t suffer from air quality issues and no one has respiratory problems like allergies or asthma, a less expensive air filter might suffice.

For homeowners who prioritize clean indoor air, investing in a more expensive air filter could be worthwhile. Higher-end filters with superior materials and higher MERV ratings are more effective at trapping contaminants and have the added benefit of longevity. Seriously consider this investment if you or anyone in your household has chronic respiratory conditions or if you share your home with furry animals.

Are You Searching for the Best Air Filter for Your Home?

Choosing the best air conditioner filter isn’t just a matter of price—it’s about finding the right fit for you. Ultimately, the best air filter replacement should align with your health needs and the specifications of your living space without taxing your finances or your HVAC system.

For additional guidance in choosing an air filter for your home, turn to Best Value A/C & Heating LLC. With over 20 years of experience, our veteran-owned family business recognizes the incredible importance of clean indoor air. We’re committed to helping you breathe easier with indoor air quality solutions like high-quality filters, air purifiers, air duct cleaning, and more. We’ll only recommend what you really need, with no high-pressure sales tactics in sight.

Ready to breathe easier? Contact us today at 386-677-6055 to request an air quality consultation in your Volusia or Flagler County home.