To maintain the air quality inside your home, the air filters of your HVAC system works as the first line of defense. The main task of the air filter is to trap or catch the pollens, germs, dirt, and dust particles before the air is blown throughout the house. It also protects the internal components of the HVAC system by keeping them clean and making them work smoothly.
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But, out of numerous air filters available out there, which ones best suit your particular HVAC system is often times not such an easy question to answer. Getting the "usual cheapest one" is not always a wise choice.
So, to make your task easier, we can assist you in selecting the air filter that best compliments the efficiency and performance of your HVAC system. So, let&#;s get started.
There are a variety of air filters available in the marketplace. Knowing the types of filters makes it easier to understand which one will be right for your individual HVAC system, helping you make an informed decision.
Pleated filters are a bit bent, just like an accordion shape, with the primary goal to fit in more surface area for trapping as many particles as possible. These filters are moderately thick and are usually made of a cotton-polyester blend or a special synthetic material. These types of filters are a good option for those who look to improve indoor air quality.
The pleated filters usually have a larger surface area than any other type of filter. These filters even come with a nice density which allows them to catch small dust particles and air contaminants like pollen, mold spores, pet dander, etc. Pleated filters are disposable ones and last long too.
Flat-panel filters are constructed on a flat cardboard frame, just like the name suggests. In their construction, fibrous materials such as polyester, fiberglass, or other types of efficient synthetic material are used. These filters are budget-friendly, but they are less efficient in comparison to pleated filters too. They target to trap the bigger debris and dirt particle.
The 1-inch disposable fiberglass filters are not productive in catching small, life-threatening contaminants. But, they come fitted in most of the HVAC filters. Compared to this one, the synthetic material air filters are a bit more efficient. They are thicker and better at improving the air quality. However, we recommend that if you find any of the flat panel filters in your HVAC system, it&#;s better to change it to an efficient one.
On the first look, washable filters seem like a good option as there will be no need to change them frequently. Choosing these custom air filters will be an ecological choice on your part, but they are less efficient and get dirty frequently. Continuous or daily washing may develop mildew and bacteria in it, and finally, you have to change it.
High-Efficiency Particulate Air Filters are such filters that have the capability to capture approximately 99.97% of particles of 0.3μm or larger. This means that even the minute contaminants like particles of smoke as well as several bacteria and viruses can easily be trapped by it.
Given its quality and capability, this filter may seem the most favorable choice, but it&#;s not always true. It does catch most of the air particulates, but in many cases, it also slows down the airflow due to its high density. As most of the home HVAC systems do not consist of any fan or motor powerful enough to force out the air, using a HEPA filter may damage the whole system.
So, depending on your HVAC system, you can decide or ask a professional whether the HEPA filter will be suitable for your home system or not.
Once you decide which type of air filter is suitable for your HVAC system, the next step is deciding the filter&#;s trapping efficiency. The best way to do so is by checking the MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating of the air filter. This rating reports the filter&#;s ability to trap the percentage of particles of different sizes.
MERV rating is assigned between the range of 1 to 20. A higher rating indicates higher efficiency.
Air filters between this range only offer a minimum level of filtration. Fiberglass filters usually come under this category. They clog quickly, and you need to change them every 1 to 3 months.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) usually considers air filters within the range of 7 to 13 equivalent to HEPA filters. But, if you are looking for a cost-efficient option that can get the work done, then MERV 7 and 8 filter is your sweet spot. They are better than low-efficiency filters and a budget-friendly option in the long run.
Pleated air filters made with synthetic material usually comes under this category. They can trap around 95% of particles and are suitable for people having respiratory issues. They can last up to 6 months.
Air filters falling under this range are the most efficient ones. But, picking up highly efficient air filters is not always a wise choice. These filters can reduce the performance of your HVAC by restricting airflow. So always consult a technician before finalizing these filters.
The manufacturers usually print the air filter care and change recommendations on the packaging. It mainly depends on the type of filter and your home conditions. The main factors that affect the filter&#;s ability and change cycle are:
Selecting the filters that are right for your home can be difficult and confusing at times. At US Home Filter we understand this, which is why we offer an experienced staff to help answer any questions you may have. For personal assistance with your air filter needs, please contact us now online or call us at (855) 237- and we will do our very best to assist you in selecting the right filter for your individual needs. We want to earn your business and we guarantee your satisfaction! Take advantage of our quality products, vast selection, low prices, and enjoy FREE SHIPPING on every air filter order within the Contiguous USA.
When it comes to choosing an air filter, it can sometimes feel overwhelming if you have too many options. After a bit of research, many consumers find themselves at a crossroads: should they go with fiberglass air filters or pleated air filters?
Want more information on Fiberglass Filtration System? Feel free to contact us.
Key Takeaways:
Fiberglass filters are made with spun glass that is encased in a cardboard frame. Often, the biggest selling point of fiberglass filters is that they are inexpensive, since the materials that they are made with are highly affordable.
Pleated air filters are made from sheets of cotton, paper or polyester that are folded into pleats, thus increasing their surface area. They tend to cost a bit more money&#;on the front end&#;than fiberglass air filters.
Above all else, the most important factors to consider are the cost of your air filters and the air quality they can provide.
For many people, they&#;ll want to have their air effectively controlled while not breaking the bank. Initially, fiberglass filters are the less expensive option, but choosing your filters based solely on the initial price does not guarantee quality air for your home.
You can get fiberglass air filters for as low as $1. But&#;to put it bluntly&#;you get what you pay for. Fiberglass filters need to be replaced more often. The surface area for these filters is small and cannot hold as many particles as pleated filters and need to be replaced every month. Because of this, fiberglass filters can actually be more expensive in the long run as you are buying more filters.
Unfortunately, the materials used to make fiberglass filters cannot be recycled and are not biodegradable. Pleated air filters, on the other hand, can be recycled upon their disposal, therefore making them the eco-friendlier choice.
We say: Pleated air filters, all the way. Fiberglass filters do not trap nearly as many particles as pleated air filters do. Instead, they only pick up larger pollutants that are common in the air of a home, such as lint or dust. This means that material like animal dander, smoke and bacteria are not filtered as effectively. On a 1-16 MERV rating scale, fiberglass air filters typically have a rating of 2-3.
Pleated air filters don&#;t need to be replaced as often (they typically last 90 days). Pleated air filters provide better overall air quality, with MERV ratings ranging from 7-13. Their increased surface area picks up more debris and pollutants than fiberglass filters, such as pollen and pet dander. And of course, they&#;ll still pick up dirt and dust and other larger allergen debris. This makes pleated filters perfect for those with allergies or respiratory problems.
All of this is to say that not only do pleated air filters work better, they are the smarter financial choice for those looking to the future.
When it comes to stocking up on Filterbuy&#;s air filters, it&#;s a great idea to buy in bulk. We highly recommend pleated air filters over fiberglass filters for use in homes or businesses. We offer pleated air filters in various sizes with MERV 8, MERV 11 and MERV 13 ratings&#;available in any quantity.
Yes, pleated air filters are better as they capture more particles and improve air quality.
Pleated filters are more expensive upfront and can slightly restrict airflow in some systems.
Pleated filters made of cotton, paper, or polyester are considered the best for effective filtration.
Slightly, but this is usually offset by their superior filtration, making them a good choice overall.
Fiberglass air filters typically last about 30 days before needing replacement.
Yes, they are safe, but they are less effective at filtering out smaller particles.
For more Industrial Fiberglass Filtrationinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.