The basic function of an air conditioning filter is to clean the air that is circulating throughout your home. These filters, just like any other, will begin to accumulate dust, dirt, and debris. This is normal, but it is important that you, as a homeowner, keep up with your air conditioning and regularly replace the filter to prevent dirt and debris from being recycled throughout your home. When replacing your filter, you might come across several kinds. You have options to choose from, but what does each kind of filter offer, and what makes them different? We discuss the seven kinds of air filters to help you understand your options.
Fiberglass
These filters are the most common in residential HVAC units. They actually help HVAC units work less because they pick up large particles out of your system, ultimately allowing more air to flow. Because they are the standard air filters, they do not promise as much of a job when it comes to filtering out smaller particles. If you or any of your family members suffer from allergies, you might want to consider other options.
Pleated Air Filters
These filters are also common. They are made out of cotton and/or polyester folds. Although they are slightly more expensive than the standard fiberglass filters, they do a more promising job of filtering smaller particles such as dust, pollen, mold spores and growth, and pet dander. Pleated air filters almost always help keep these smaller particles from being circulated throughout your home. If you are looking for more effective filtering, pleated air filters are your best choice.
HEPA
HEPA filters, also known as high-efficiency particulate air filters, are highly recommended for those who have respiratory problems. These filters are more expensive than fiberglass filters and pleated filters and that is because they work even harder to prevent even smaller particles from flowing in and out of your home’s air conditioning unit. These filters are found to pick up 99.97% of pet dander, dust, pollen, viruses, bacteria, and other small irritants or allergens.
UV Filters
UV filters are perfect for combatting the small allergens and pollutants that you cannot easily see such as bacteria, viruses, and many other kinds of microorganisms that may be passing through your air conditioning unit. Because these filters focus more on killing bacteria and microorganisms with ultraviolet light they do not promise as good of a job when it comes to catching bigger particles. If you do not regularly find big particles in your filter, then this filter can be just right for you.
Washable Filters
When it comes to filters, some people look for the most cost-effective solution. If you’re looking to cut costs, washable filters are the way to go. These filters are both reusable and disposable. Although you might spend more money the first time you buy them, they will help you save more money in the years to come considering you won’t have to regularly buy filters as you would with pleated or fiberglass filters. All you have to do is wash them regularly and replace them a few times a year.
Electrostatic Air Filters
These filters utilize a mixture of several fibers to create static electricity, which ultimately intends on attracting particles and dust. This is also a great choice for those who find themselves combatting allergens. Just like washable filters, they can be washed and reused until they have been worn out. These filters pick up most particles so you don’t have to worry too much about how effective and promising they are.
Media Filters
Media filters are made to meet the MERV rating of your HVAC unit. The MERV rating stands for minimum efficiency reporting values, so the filter works to meet the rating to make sure it does not overwork your air conditioning unit. Even better, these filters do not have to use pressure and they do not affect static airflow. These filters provide more surface area, meaning they can pick up as many particles as possible. Easy to maintain, these filters seal contaminants that they do not go back out into the air conditioning unit.
Get the Highest Quality of Air with Custom Cooling and Heating, Inc.
Considering that there is so much to choose from, it can be hard to make the best choice for your air conditioning unit. If you need help, you can contact the professionals at Custom Cooling and Heating! We’re here for all of your HVAC needs.
