When it comes to air filters, not all are created equal. Choosing the right filter for your home depends on your needs and the cost of the filter. It's always best to consult an HVAC professional before making any decisions. To help you make an informed decision, let's compare the pros and cons of each type of filter.
You should expect to replace your filter every three to twelve months, depending on its size. Recent innovations in air filters allow for high MERV ratings (11 to 1) with a low pressure drop. It's important to never force a filter that is too large or let air circulate around a filter that is too small, as this can reduce efficiency. Household air filtration can be a matter of life or death for those with respiratory conditions, but even healthy people can benefit from cleaner air. We can control the extent to which each filter restricts air flow by using a differential pressure transducer installed in the air filter.
An independent test on the effects of MERV filters 8 to 13 on air flow and HVAC energy consumption concluded that, even with a high MERV content, the air flow and energy penalties are not likely to be serious until the filter is full of dirt. Some people need air conditioning system filters that keep the air free of allergens and other pollutants, while others just need a basic filter to do the job. When HVAC filters become dirty and clogged with debris, air can't flow freely through the ducts, making your home less comfortable and eventually causing damage to HVAC equipment. The cheapest disposable fiberglass filters only meet the minimum (or slightly better), around MERV 2 or 3, and are designed to protect the internal workings of the HVAC system, rather than to protect indoor air quality. While these filters have a low MERV rating, they are an excellent long-term investment for someone who doesn't have a strong preference for HVAC filter types and doesn't need any special filters.
Types of Air Filters
When it comes to choosing an air filter for your home, there are several types available. The most common types are disposable fiberglass filters, pleated filters, electrostatic filters, and HEPA filters.Disposable Fiberglass Filters
Disposable fiberglass filters are the most basic type of air filter available.They are made from spun glass fibers that trap dust particles as they pass through the filter. These filters are inexpensive and easy to install, but they don't offer much protection against allergens or other pollutants.
Pleated Filters
Pleated filters are more effective than disposable fiberglass filters at trapping dust particles and other allergens. They are made from a combination of synthetic fibers and paper that is pleated into a series of accordion-like folds. This design allows them to trap more particles than disposable fiberglass filters.Electrostatic Filters
Electrostatic filters use an electrical charge to attract dust particles and other allergens.They are made from synthetic fibers that have been treated with an electrical charge. This charge attracts dust particles as they pass through the filter.
HEPA Filters
HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are designed to trap 99.97% of all particles larger than 0.3 microns in size. This design allows them to trap more particles than disposable fiberglass or pleated filters.Conclusion
Choosing the right air filter for your home depends on your needs and budget. Disposable fiberglass filters are inexpensive and easy to install, but they don't offer much protection against allergens or other pollutants.Pleated filters offer more protection against dust particles and other allergens than disposable fiberglass filters, while electrostatic and HEPA filters offer even more protection against allergens and other pollutants.
