Most Commonly Used Air Filters That Work Best for Your Home

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air pollutants can be around five times outdoor concentrations. Therefore, using the appropriate air filter for your home’s cooling and heating system is very critical.

Types of Air Conditioning Systems Filters

The following are the different types of air filters for your home.

FIBERGLASS FILTERS

This type of filter is made using fiberglass strands.

Advantages

• This filter is among the cheapest options available. 
• They are highly effective at protecting your HVAC system from dirt and debris. 

Disadvantages

• These filers are not ideal for trapping smaller particles. Thus, they do little to clean your air.
•  These types of air conditioning systems filters can easily clog with dirt, dust and other debris. 

PLEATED AIR FILTERS

These filters are made with polyester or cotton fabrics folded to create pleats.

Advantages

• These filters have greater surface area allowing for enhanced filtration — the more pleats, the greater the filter’s efficiency. 
• These filters come in disposable and reusable options. Though the reusable ones are more expensive, you do not have to keep buying new ones.
• They are superior in dust-stopping ability. 

Disadvantages

• Pleated filters are costly.
• Your HVAC system needs to work harder to force air through the unit. Eventually, the home’s air conditioning system becomes less efficient.

 HEPA FILTERS

High-Efficiency Particulate Air filters have a MERV rating of at least 16. Most homes do not require this kind of protection.

Advantages

• HEPA filters are ideal for cleaning the air inside your house. They attract incredibly tiny particles, ensuring clean air to breathe.
• They are durable, making them cost-effective in the long run.

Disadvantages

• They have to be adjusted to your HVAC system. You have to hire a professional contractor to adjust it precisely to your system. 
• Even though they are durable, HEPA filters are more costly than most filters.

UV FILTERS

These filters use UV light to kill viruses and bacteria.

Advantages 

• UV filters are ideal for killing microorganisms that might harm your health.

Disadvantages 

• These filters are expensive to install since they require a professional installer.
• They are not effective against larger particles. 

MEDIA FILTERS

These filters are more beneficial than standard high MERV-rated ones. They offer similar filtration levels as higher-rated MERV filters.

Advantages 

• Less maintenance since they require replacement at most twice a year.
• Provides excellent filtration.

Disadvantages 

• These filters need to be installed by a professional.
• They are less effective against odors.

ELECTROSTATIC FILTERS

These filters use a combination of fibers to produce static electricity, which assists in attracting dirt and dust particles. 

Advantages 

• Cost-effective because reusable options are available. 
• They can filter most pollutants from the air.

Disadvantages 

• May struggle with large particles. They aren’t as effective when it comes to dust and mold spores. This is a bad option for people with breathing problems.

WASHABLE FILTERS

These types of air conditioning systems filters not only cut costs but are also environmentally friendly. Though you will use more money initially, they are cost-effective since they can last many years. 

Advantages 

• You can use a single filter during your HVAC system’s life with the appropriate care and upkeep.
• Environmentally friendly. Fewer filters mean less waste. 

Disadvantages

• This is not an ideal option for people who are usually affected by allergens. If the filter is not fully dry, it can attract allergens.
• It’s not effective against odors.

Categorised in: Air Conditioning Tips

This post was written by admin