Your indoor air quality needs, which depend on the number of pollutants in your house, help you determine the best type of air filter for your home. There are several types of air filters you can choose from. Let’s assist you in making a wiser selection by filling you in on the important details about different types of air filters.
Fiberglass Filters
These are the most common types of air filters available. They’re made from fiberglass strands spun together. Fiberglass filters are very cheap. While they trap larger airborne particles like dust, they don’t capture small irritants like pollen and mold. These filters won’t be your best option if you have a family member who has allergies.
Pleated Filters
These are similar to fiberglass air filters, but they cost more and are better at trapping dust than fiberglass filters. They also trap allergens like dust mites and pet dander.
If you decide to purchase a pleated air filter, you’ll want to choose one with a lot of pleats. The more pleats the filter has, the easier it will be for air to pass through the filter. A pleated filter with a MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating of between 6 and 8 will remove many pollutants from the air without burdening your HVAC system.
Electrostatic Filters
Electrostatic filters generate a static charge to attract airborne particles. They filter allergens better than pleated filters. They’re more expensive, but they have a longer life span than pleated and fiberglass filters.
These filters trap a wide variety of particles, including pollen and mold. They may be the most effective type of filter for smokers and people with asthma or allergies. However, they can overburden your HVAC system if it can’t work with limited airflow.
Washable Filters
These filters comprise washable material. You’ll only need to replace them every three to five years. They can break, warp, or bend during washing. Therefore, you should clean them carefully.
You’ll need to wash these filters regularly and dry them thoroughly to maximize their effectiveness. Reinstalling washable filters when they’re not fully dry will allow bacteria and mold to grow on them and circulate throughout your home.
For further guidance on choosing the best types of air filters for your HVAC system and your home, you can contact an HVAC technician. Contact Hansberger Refrigeration and Electric Company for the best HVAC and air-filtration solutions in the Yuma area.
