Air Filter Services
Air Filter Installation & Indoor Air Quality Services in Northeast Ohio
A clean, properly sized air filter protects your HVAC equipment, improves indoor air quality (IAQ), and helps your system run efficiently. Upgrading from a basic fiberglass filter to a high-efficiency pleated media filter can:
- Capture more allergens (dust, pollen, pet dander, lint, mold spores)
- Reduce dust on surfaces and inside ductwork
- Help maintain steady airflow so your system doesn’t overwork
- Support lower energy costs and fewer repairs over time
Not sure what to pick? Our technicians match your system with the best MERV rating for your home, balancing filtration and airflow so you get cleaner air without straining your equipment.
❓ How Do Air Filters Work?
Your furnace or air handler pulls air through a filter before conditioning and circulating it through your home. Filters are rated by MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value):
- MERV 1–4: Basic dust protection
- MERV 8–11: Great everyday choice for most homes; captures common allergens
- MERV 13: Higher capture rate for smaller particles; popular for households with allergies or asthma
- Media cabinets (4–5″ filters) & whole-home air cleaners: Longer life, lower pressure drop, better performance than thin 1″ filters
Our team checks your equipment specs and ductwork to recommend the ideal setup—whether that’s a standard pleated filter, a 4–5″ media filter cabinet, or an electronic/whole-home air cleaner.
🔥 Will a Higher MERV Make My Home Warmer or Colder?
A higher MERV doesn’t change temperature by itself—but a clogged or overly restrictive filter can reduce airflow, making rooms feel uneven and forcing your system to work harder. We’ll help you choose a filter that fits your system and lifestyle so you get clean air and comfortable rooms.
🔧 Air Filter Installation & Replacement
Our certified specialists make it simple:
- In-home assessment – We confirm filter size, location (return grille or furnace/air handler), and airflow needs.
- Right-fit recommendation – You’ll get options by MERV rating and thickness (1″ vs 4–5″ media), including whole-home air cleaner upgrades.
- Upfront estimate & timeline – Clear pricing with no surprises.
- Professional installation – We verify fit, seals, and airflow—no gaps, no bypass air.
- Reminders & plans – Add filter changes to your Maintenance Agreement and get on an easy replacement schedule.
Ask about our convenient financing options on IAQ upgrades and media cabinets.
🚨 Signs You Need a New Filter Now
- Dust builds up quickly on furniture or vents
- Rooms feel stuffy or airflow is weak
- More sneezing or allergy flare-ups indoors
- HVAC runs longer, cycles frequently, or sounds strained
- Filter looks gray or clogged when inspected
If you notice any of these, give us a call—our Rittman air quality team is happy to help.
📅 Suggested Replacement Schedule
(General guidance—your home and filter type may vary.)
- 1″ pleated filters: every 1–3 months
- 2″ pleated filters: every 2–4 months
- 4–5″ media filters: every 6–12 months
- Homes with pets, smokers, construction dust, or allergies: change more often
We’ll tailor a schedule for your space and set up reminders so you never forget.
🐶Allergy & Pet Owner Facts – Why Filtration Matters
- Pet dander is a microscopic allergen that lingers in air and clings to soft surfaces.
- MERV 11+ filters can capture pet dander, pollen, mold spores, and dust mites.
- Media filters offer more surface area, making them ideal for homes with multiple pets or allergy sufferers.
- Poor IAQ from pets can worsen symptoms of asthma, sinusitis, and seasonal allergies.
- Cats and dogs can bring in outdoor allergens on their fur (grass, mold, dust), which circulate in your HVAC system.
- Pairing a high-MERV filter with a whole-home air purifier gives the best protection from airborne triggers.
❓ FAQs – Air Filters for Allergies & Pets
🐾 Which air filter is best for pet owners?
Filters with MERV 11–13 ratings are ideal for capturing pet dander, hair, and other fine particles. We also recommend 4–5″ media filters for longer life and better performance.
🌬️ Will better air filtration help with allergies?
Yes. Upgrading your air filter can reduce airborne allergens like dust, pollen, mold spores, and dander. It’s especially helpful for people with seasonal allergies, asthma, or respiratory issues.
🧼 How often should I change my air filter with pets?
Homes with pets should change filters every 1–2 months, depending on shedding and filter type. Media filters (4–5″) may last up to 6 months but should be checked regularly.
🐕 Can pet hair damage my HVAC system?
Yes. Pet hair and dander can clog filters, reduce airflow, and lead to system strain or premature failure. Routine filter replacement and vacuuming help reduce the risk.
❓ Is a media filter cabinet better than a 1″ filter?
Absolutely. Media filter cabinets use deeper filters that offer more surface area, capture smaller particles, and last longer—ideal for households with pets or allergy sensitivities.
🏠 Do you install whole-home air cleaners?
Yes! We offer electronic air cleaners, UV purification, and HEPA solutions that integrate with your existing system for whole-home allergy relief.
Call Your Local HVAC Experts Today
Our team of certified experts at Schar Heating & Cooling can take care of all your home heating and cooling needs. Call our Rittman or Akron, OH, today.