HVAC Air Filters Do More Than Protect Equipment
Protect Your Health, Relieve Allergies
© 2016 by Kelly Smith; all rights reserved; content may not be copied, rewritten, or republished without written permission.
It is only common sense that regularly replacing HVAC air filters on a periodic basis will extend your system’s lifespan, lower your utility bills, and reduce maintenance, but air filters can do so much more than that.
With so many options available, it is critical to match your choice of filter with the comfort and health needs of you and your family.
Use HEPA Filters to Control Allergies
HEPA filters (High-Efficiency Particulate Absorption if you must know) are the best option for people suffering from allergies. They offer a high level of protection for areas that are high in pollen.
They also minimize problems from pet dander. If you are considering upgrading to HEPA air filters, consult with your HVAC service specialist to see if your system is a good candidate; they are so efficient that they can impede air flow, making your system work harder.
Foe example, a high-efficiency filter can actually freeze the condensing coils on your air conditioning unit. So ironically, this is a case where efficiency can work against you!
They are most commonly used in commercial environments such as hospitals but they are also available for residential use. When combined with an air purifier, even better results can be attained.
Washable Filters are an Economic Alternative
These filters, which are also called electrostatic filters, may be purchased in specific sizes or assembled from a kit. The main advantage is that they are reusable although they should be cleaned often for the best performance.
If you go this route, be sure to wash it out on a monthly basis and allow it to dry completely before reinstalling it. With proper care, this type of filter may be reused for 5 to 10 years and they will only set you back about about $20 each. Truly a frugal choice.
How do they work? By using electrostatically-charged fibers that attract and capture irritants such as pet dander, smoke, and household dust particles. These filters are also effective at capturing allergy irritants such as pollen, dust mite debris, and mold spores.
Pleated Air Filters Offer More Surface Area
This zig-zag looking larger surface area really gives you more bang for the buck. These is the most common type that you’ll see in the big box stores like Home Depot, Costco, and Lowe’s.
Their popularity is largely due to the fact that they strike a nice compromise between price, removing airborne particles, and long life due to the large surface area.
To learn more about which type of filter is right for your home, contact the best
local HVAC repairmen
.
