Indoor air quality is a crucial element for any homeowner, especially if their household members have respiratory problems. The right HVAC filters can make the difference between congested air full of contaminants and clean air that's healthy and easy to breathe. Understanding the different types of air filters for homes is the first step to getting the improved indoor air quality you deserve. Each of these filters has its own advantages and disadvantages, which vary depending on your purpose for your home.
Some people need filters for the air conditioning system to keep the air free of allergens and other contaminants, while others only need a basic filter to do the job. In general, high-efficiency filters that are also cost-effective are best for homes, but other considerations should include whether there are pets in the home, whether mold or mildew pose a threat, and how often filters should be changed. When it comes to air filters for home use, there are several types available. The most common type is a disposable air filter made up of layered fiberglass fibers placed on top of each other to form the filter medium and usually reinforced with a metal mesh that supports the fiberglass to prevent it from breaking.
Other types include HEPA filters, UV filters, electrostatic filters, washable filters, and media filters.
HEPA
filters are great for those living with allergies or other respiratory problems as they must be adjusted by a contractor to fit your specific HVAC system.UV
filters use shortwave UV light to kill bacteria and viruses, making them great for eliminating microorganisms that could be hazardous to health, including mold spores. However, they can transform oxygen into ozone which can be hazardous to health.Electrostatic filters use tiny cotton and paper fibers to create static that acts like a magnet for dust and other particles suspended in the air. Washable filters are an environmentally friendly way to save money as they can be washed and reused over and over instead of buying a new one every few months. Media filters provide the same level of filtration as a high-MERV filter but without the negative consequences of airflow or static pressure. It's wise to talk to an HVAC professional before making any decisions about air filters as each type has its own advantages and disadvantages that vary depending on your purpose for your home. To help you gather information and evaluate your options, you can compare the basic advantages and disadvantages of each type of filter.
When it's time to change the filters, you can decide whether to wash and reuse them or throw them away and buy new ones. When choosing an air filter for your home, it's important to consider factors such as cost, whether there are pets in the home, whether mold or mildew pose a threat, and how often filters should be changed. It's also important to ensure that any washable filter is completely dry before putting it back in as even the smallest amount of moisture that remains can cause mold and mildew to form on the filter and expel it into the air you breathe. Overall, disposable air filters are one of the most common types of HVAC filters because they're cost-effective, disposable, and protect air conditioners and ovens from dirt.
HEPA
filters are great for those living with allergies or other respiratory problems while UV filters are great at eliminating bacteria and viruses but not as efficient when it comes to protecting against contaminants such as dust. Electrostatic filters create static that acts like a magnet for dust and other particles suspended in the air while washable filters are an environmentally friendly way to save money as they can be washed and reused over and over instead of buying a new one every few months.Media filters provide the same level of filtration as a high-MERV filter but without the negative consequences of airflow or static pressure. When selecting an air filter for your home, it's important to consider all factors such as cost, pet presence in your home, potential mold or mildew threats, how often you need to change your filter, etc. It's also essential that you make sure any washable filter is completely dry before putting it back in order to avoid mold or mildew formation on the filter. In conclusion, there are several types of air filters available for homes including disposable air filters made up of layered fiberglass fibers reinforced with metal mesh; HEPA filters; UV filters; electrostatic filters; washable filters; and media filters. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages that vary depending on your purpose for your home so it's important to talk to an HVAC professional before making any decisions about air filters.
