You already know how important it is to change the air filter in your home, but are you doing it often enough? Most homeowners should replace their AC filter at least three times a year.
Whether you're prepping for the cool air in summer or the warmth during winter, the air filter plays a major role in your home's air quality. But before you pick up the cheapest air filter on the shelf, there are a few things you should consider first.
When it comes to maintaining your home’s air conditioning or heating system, the type of filter you choose is essential. The most commonly used option, the fiberglass filter, is a throw-away filter that allows maximum air flow, which is important for keeping your air conditioner or HVAC system running smoothly. These filters are affordable and easy to replace but, unfortunately, they don’t do much to remove the harmful indoor air pollutants in your home, such as dust, allergens, or other fine particles.
On the other hand, pleated filters are more effective at capturing particles because of their design. A pleated filter has a larger surface area due to its pleats, which allows it to trap more pollutants. However, this type of filter can sometimes restrict airflow. When airflow is blocked, your air handler and other parts of your system must work harder, which can lead to reduced performance, higher energy bills, and even system failure.
Choosing the right HVAC filters is crucial for maintaining good air quality and ensuring your system runs efficiently. Here are some advantages of filters that give the best air flow:
There are various types of HVAC filters available, each offering different levels of filtration and airflow. So you need to choose the right filter according to your priorities, like it’s cost, air quality, or ease of maintenance. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of HVAC filters and explore their pros and cons.
These filters are made from strands of spun glass and are reinforced with a metal grate. Commonly referred to as flat-paneled filters, they are one of the most affordable options available.
While spun glass filters are economical, they are not the best choice for improving indoor air quality. With a MERV rating of just five, they can filter only about 20% of particles sized between 3.0 and 10.0 microns, which includes dust, carpet fibers, and pollen.
Electrostatic filters use a mix of cotton and paper fibers to create static electricity, which acts like a magnet to trap pollutants. These filters are especially beneficial for allergy sufferers, as they help prevent allergens from circulating in your home. Many electrostatic filters include a carbon filter, which can be either pleated or flat, to enhance efficiency. They come in both washable and disposable styles.
Pleated filters are crafted from polyester or cotton fabric arranged in folds to increase the surface area. Although they are slightly more expensive than fiberglass filters, the larger surface area allows them to capture more contaminants like pet dander and pollen. Pleated filters can also be reusable or disposable.
HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are among the most efficient HVAC filters available. They can eliminate up to 99.97% of airborne contaminants, including dust, pollen, mold, smoke particles, pet dander, and bacteria. HEPA filters are especially beneficial for individuals with allergies or respiratory issues.
UV air filters utilize germicidal radiation from short-wave UV light to eliminate viruses and bacteria as air passes through. While they effectively kill harmful microorganisms, they are less efficient at capturing pollutants like dust. For optimal filtration, UV filters are often paired with HEPA filters. It’s worth noting that these filters can sometimes convert oxygen molecules into ozone, which may pose minor health risks like respiratory issues.
Washable filters are environmentally friendly since they don't need to be replaced. They can come in flat-paneled or pleated designs. Maintenance involves vacuuming or rinsing the filters to remove dirt, and they should be completely dried before reinstallation to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
Media filters are made of a paper-like material folded into pleats and housed in a metal cabinet. While they are typically no more than six inches wide, the pleated material can expand to cover up to 75 square feet. This increased surface area makes them highly effective.
When it comes to finding which HVAC filters give the best air flow, fiberglass filters usually come out on top because they have the least resistance. Their loose, minimal construction allows air to pass through easily, which keeps your HVAC system running efficiently. However, while they allow for the best airflow, they don’t do a great job at filtering smaller particles and contaminants. Pleated filters, though slightly more restrictive, offer a better balance between airflow and filtration. Washable filters also provide decent airflow, but they require frequent cleaning to maintain efficiency. If you are looking for both excellent filtration and good airflow, media filters can be a solid choice because they maintain high filtration without overly restricting air movement. So overall, the filter you choose will depend on you're prioritize, airflow or indoor air quality.
When selecting a filter, consider the following factors:
The best type of HVAC filter for maximum air flow typically includes pleated filters or filters with a low MERV rating. Pleated filters have a larger surface area, allowing them to trap more particles while maintaining good air flow.
Not necessarily. While higher MERV ratings indicate better filtration, they can also restrict air flow if the HVAC system is not designed to handle them. It’s important to balance filtration efficiency with air flow capacity.
Yes, electrostatic filters can provide good air flow while effectively trapping particles. They often have a design that allows for better air circulation compared to some higher MERV filters.
Using two filters can improve air filtration, but it might restrict air flow depending on their MERV ratings and thickness. Always consult your HVAC system's specifications before adding multiple filters.
Keep your home's air fresh and clean with EMG Air's professional maintenance and cleaning services. Don't let dirty filters affect your comfort—schedule a service with us today! Visit EMG Air for reliable HVAC maintenance and expert cleaning. Your indoor air quality matters, and we're here to help!
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