Your HVAC air filter, although arguably one of the simplest parts of your HVAC system, is also one of the most important. Its primary function is to keep the HVAC system clean and free of damage, but it also plays a part in your indoor air quality.
Here’s why your air filter is so important and why you shouldn’t go without one.
Air Filters Protect Your HVAC System
The air brought in by your HVAC system is not clean. There are varying levels of dust and other debris, not to mention mold, bacteria, and other allergens. Without an effective removal process, dust and debris will get stuck in your system and cause damage. Therefore, a filter helps to remove particles from the air flowing through your system, keeping it clean and efficient.
Similarly, a clogged filter will reduce airflow in your system and make it work harder to get to the right temperature. Having a clean filter keeps the dust and debris out of the air you breathe and away from the components of your HVAC system.
Make sure to keep extra filters in stock at home in case you discover yours needs to be changed. If you have a reusable filter, it may be a good idea to keep an extra one on hand to use when you’re cleaning the other.
Air Filters Improve Your Home’s Indoor Air Quality
Air filters are designed to provide clean air, which also means they are great at removing allergens from your home as well as dust and other particulate matter in the air you breathe. As air cycles through your home, the filter collects the particles that could cause allergic reactions or harm to your health. If you have a clean filter but still feel like your home’s air could be cleaner, you may benefit from a whole-home air purifying system. Air purifiers can work in conjunction with your HVAC system’s air filters to eliminate airborne and surface particles commonly found in the home. If you’re interested in purchasing an air purification system for your Dallas area home, contact our Carrollton indoor air quality specialists today to learn more.
Different Types of Air Filters
HEPA Filter
The greatest potential advantage of HEPA filters may be for those who suffer from allergies or other respiratory ailments. These filters have a higher MERV rating (minimum efficiency reporting value) and must be modified by a specialist to match your particular HVAC system. HEPA filters are great at removing bigger particles from the air like pollen and pet dander, but are also extremely effective at removing smaller particles like smoke and bacteria. They are affordable and simply require replacement every few years. These filters’ ability to effectively cleanse the air is by far their biggest advantage.
UV Filter
Short-wave ultraviolet radiation is used by UV filters to destroy viruses and bacteria. With their germicidal radiation, UV lights sterilize the air as it circulates through the HVAC system. These are fantastic for eliminating germs like mold spores that may be hazardous to your health. Strong contaminants may be eliminated by these filters, providing you with better indoor air quality.
Fiberglass Filter
Some of the most popular types of air filters are made of fiberglass. They are composed of spun glass, which collects large air pollution particles from the air. Because they are intended to only last for around 30 days before needing to be discarded and replaced, fiberglass filters are sometimes referred to as disposable filters.
Spunglass Filter
Spun glass filters, one of the most popular kinds of HVAC filters, are created by spinning together fiberglass strands. Spun glass filters are among the best filter kinds since they are disposable, cost-effective, and protect furnaces and air conditioners from dirt and debris. Due to their limited ability to collect all dust and allergens, these filters are not well recognized for improving air quality. Spun glass filters are therefore not advised for individuals with respiratory issues who require a filter to enhance air quality.
Pleated Filter
Polyester and cotton folds are the common materials used to create pleated filters. These filters, available in reusable and disposable variations, can effectively trap excessive dust and other airborne contaminants such as pet dander and mold spores. The more pleats on the HVAC filter, the better job it does at filtering out contaminants. However, pleated filters are less resistant to air flow and offer low air filtration.
Electrostatic Filter
Electrostatic filters are among the most economical filter options available, and they are excellent for enhancing the quality of indoor air. Small cotton and paper fibers are used in electrostatic filters to generate static electricity, which works as a magnet for dust and other airborne particles. They are one of the most effective options for people who require an allergen-fighting filter since the magnetism is powerful enough to prevent these particles from spreading throughout your house.
Washable Filter
Washable air filters are economical and good for the environment. These air filters for HVAC systems typically cost a lot up front, but you should think of them as an investment that will endure for many years. Given that you can just wash and reuse the filters again rather than purchasing new ones every few months, the initial cost is probably all you’ll have to pay. Although these filters have a low MERV rating, for individuals who don’t have a particular filter type preference or who don’t require specialized filters, they are a fantastic long-term investment.
Media Filter
Media filters are excellent for removing germs and other small airborne contaminants and are extremely simple to maintain. Filtered dirt is contained inside the filter, preventing it from being circulated back into your house. Media filters are reliable and reasonably priced and only once or twice a year do they need to be replaced.
Popular media filters are known for requiring little upkeep. Due to their larger surface area, they are also excellent filters and collect pollutants rather than releasing them back into the atmosphere. However, they probably require expert installation, and they are ineffective at screening strong odors.
Turn To a Carrollton HVAC Technician at Lex Air for Heating and Cooling Service You Can Trust
Air filters are essential for providing cleaner air and enhancing the performance of your HVAC system. That’s why it’s important to have a decent understanding of what they do and how they work.
For top-to-bottom HVAC maintenance and heating and cooling system repair services, turn to the team that Texans have trusted for 30 years, Lex Air Conditioning and Heating. Contact our Carrollton HVAC technicians today at (972) 217-8955 to learn more about what kind of air filter you need and how we can help keep your home comfortable.
