What Are the Different Types of HVAC Filters?
As with many things in life, your HVAC system has many filter options to choose from. Knowing the different types of filters and how they work helps you choose the right filter for you. Here are some of the options that you’ll find at the store.
Fiberglass Air Filters
These filters use fiberglass screening that filters the air going through the ductwork. These filters are great for filtering out dirt and larger particles. They don’t filter out everything. This can include bacteria, pet dander, and pollen. If you have allergies, you should consider a higher quality filter. Fiberglass filters tend to be the cheapest filter on the market.
Pleated Filters
These tend to use cotton folds or polyester fabrics. The pleated fashion of this filter allows it to filter dust and smaller pollutants. For those with respiratory problems, this filter works best. It filters out pollen, pet dander, and bacteria that’s in the air in your home. Pleated filters cost more than fiberglass filters but they filter out more particles.
Washable Air Filters
You use most HVAC filters once and throw them out when they become dirty. With washable air filters, you clean them when they become full . This way, you can reuse them again and again. These can be convenient in the sense because you do not have to pay for a new HVAC filter every two to three months. You have to be careful that your filter is often cleaned and dries out before reinstalling it. Any water left in these filters can cause bacterial buildup and mold in your system.
HEPA Filters
At the top end of HVAC filters come in the HEPA filter. This filters out 99.97% of contaminants in the air circulating throughout your home or office. This type of filter is best for those who have severe allergies and respiratory problems. HEPA filters are the most expensive HVAC filters on the market. This is because they provide the highest filtering possible for your HVAC system.
Call Us Today
Our experienced technicians are available to answer all your HVAC and filter questions. If you’re not sure which filter to get or you’re not sure how to install it, our technicians can help. Call Cahill Heating, Cooling, Electric, Plumbing & Sewer, Air Conditioning, and Electric. We’ll help you get the best indoor air quality inside your home or office building.