7 Types of Air Filters Explained for Your Home

If you’re in the market to replace the air conditioner’s filters You’ll be amazed to discover the variety of types of air filters are out there!

The process can be intimidating, especially if unfamiliar with HVAC systems. But fret not! This guide will explain all you need to learn about various kinds of AC filters you will need for your home.

If you are searching for an Air conditioning service near me, you will get piles of names but the most trusted and Reliable AC Filter Replacement Company is AC Repair Techs to meet your needs. Signs of AC filter that need to be replaced include:

• Laboring to deliver cool air
• Reduced energy-efficiency
• Poor indoor air quality

Let’s get started with the basics.

What does the Air Filter in your Heating and Air Conditioning System?

The principal purpose for HVAC air filtering is to filter dangerous particles of air when it moves across the unit. This filtering ensures that the home’s air quality remains on the standards. Therefore, they are an essential part of your air conditioning.

What is the MERV Rating?

To assess the effectiveness in filters, specialists employ filters’ efficiency, experts use the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV). The MERV chart ranks filters according to their ability to collect particles. The ratings range between 1 and 16 with 16 being given to air filters that have the highest filtering capacity. It is important to note that MERV ratings for various types of filters differ based on the quality of the filter and its the manufacturer. The information is always on the label.

However, choosing the most MERV-rated filter isn’t always the best choice. The cost of these filters is high and more filtering could result in a higher resistance to airflow. This strains the HVAC unit, which will reduce efficiency in the long run.

The majority of residential HVAC systems come with the MERV 8 filter by default. Upgrade to the MERV 13 filter can remove viruses and other contaminants. This will result in better the quality of indoor air. However, as mentioned above it is recommended to consult with an HVAC expert to determine if your system is able to handle the MERV 13 filter . Or not.

7 Air Filter Types of Main Air

The most significant distinction between different types of air filters is their capacity to filter the airborne pollutants that are present within your home. The ability to do this depends on the layout and type of the material used. For instance, tightly weaved layers of material is more efficient at filtering than a thinner material.

In order to select the best HVAC filter to your house, it is important be aware of how each kind of filter material can perform.

There are seven fundamental kinds of AC filters. Each has its pros and drawbacks. Below is a listing of all types and their respective MERV ratings:

1. Spun Glass and Fiberglass Air Filters

Also called flat-paneled filter They are fibers of glass that are spun and then reinforced with a steel grates. The glass fibers are mainly made of fiberglass. These filters are among the most popular HVAC air filters because of the cost.

Despite their popularity, the filters can’t improve the indoor air quality. They are able to filter only about 20 percent of particles about 3.0 to 10.0 microns . These particles comprise dust, carpet fibers and pollen.

• Benefits Glass filters made of spun are least expensive alternative. They’re ideal for people who want to keep only debris out of their houses including lint or dust.
• Pros:Since these filters can’t take in smaller particles, they’re not efficient in purifying the air. They also can become easily blocked and require periodic maintenance as well as replacement.

2. Pleated Filters

Pleated filters are made up of the material from cotton or polyester. The fabric is arranged into pleats to increase the area that the filters. Thus, filters with more pleats work better than those that have fewer pleats.

These filters are a little more expensive than fiberglass filters. They are, however, more efficient against pollutants. They also capture smaller air pollutants like pets dander, pollen or mold spores. Pleated filters come in reused and disposable versions.

• BenefitsThe pleats provide more space to the filters and make them better. They last for longer and can be recycled.
• Pros:These filters are more costly than other types that are AC filters. Filters with pleats that are larger could also hinder airflow.

3. HEPA Filters

The High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters can be among the most effective HVAC filters available. They are able to remove 99.97 percent of airborne allergens and pollutants that can be found in your home, such as pollen, dust, mold and pet dander. They also remove smoke particles, viruses and even bacteria.

Because of the efficiency the filters provide they are very popular with those who suffer from air conditioner allergy, or any other respiratory issues. They are however much more costly than pleated and fiberglass filters.

• AdvantagesHEPA filtering is highly efficient against small and large particles of pollution. Since they only require replacing every few years, they’re quite economical over the long term.
• Con:Smaller particles like smoke or fumes are still able to be able to pass by the filters. They are quite expensive in comparison to other kinds in air filters. Additionally, their superior capacity for filtering could limit the flow of air, causing you HVAC equipment’s performance to fall.

4. UV Light Filters

The UV filters destroy viruses and bacteria by using short-wave UV light. The germicidal light generated by the UV lamp that is contained in these filters cleans the air when it travels through. They are also excellent for getting rid of harmful microorganisms like mold and spores.

But, they can have some disadvantages. The first is that UV filters can possibly convert oxygen molecules into the ozone molecules. In tiny amounts Ozone may cause small health risks, such as chest pain and coughing. If it is in greater quantities it may make asthma and other respiratory ailments more severe.

Furthermore, although UV light filters are effective in removing viruses and bacteria from air, they have little to do against harmful substances like dust. Therefore, they are usually part of a higher-tech filtering system like HEPA filters.

• BenefitsUV filtering removes harmful germs and other pollutants that are present in your home.
• Pros:These filters are ineffective against allergens and pollutants like smoke, dust and the smells. They also cost a lot when compared to other types of air filters.

5. Electrostatic Filters

These filters produce static electricity through the combination of paper fibers and cotton. The static acts as magnets and traps contaminants inside the filter’s screen. As this stops allergens from circulating in your home Electrostatic filters are a great choice for those suffering from allergies.

Electrostatic filters often include a carbon filter to ensure greater efficiency. This type of AC filter is pleated or flat-paneled. They also come in washable and disposable models.

• AdvantagesElectrostatic filtering is affordable. They’re available in reusable versions, which could lower costs further.
• Con:While these filters are efficient against small particles, they do not capture larger particles, such as dust, mold spores, or mold.

6. Washable Filters

Air filters that can be cleaned come in pleated and flat paneled types. They are more expensive than disposable filters, however they will save you money in the longer term. Additionally, they are greener than disposable filters.

To clean the filters, it is necessary to either vacuum or wash them to eliminate any dirt and impurities. It is important to make sure that the filters are dry prior to reinstalling them. Filters that are damp can cause mold and bacterial accumulation, which can bring down the indoor air quality.

• AdvantagesWashable filters can be a economical option that’s also beneficial for the environment.
• Con: These filters need regular maintenance to keep their efficiency. They don’t provide protection against smells, and are only effective for dust and other pollutants.

7. Media Filters

Media filters are composed of a similar material to paper that is that is folded into pleats within an aluminum cabinet. Although the filter’s size isn’t larger than six inches in width however, pleated materials can encompass the area of 75 square feet when folded. The larger surface area allows media filters to be seven times more efficient than air filters that are standard.

The large surface area contributes to the long-lasting nature of filters made from media. The filters can last two years or more, dependent on the conditions. Experts suggest that those living who work in areas with weak immune systems choose media filters instead of other kinds of AC filters.

• AdvantagesMedia filters can be described as low-maintenance since you just need to replace them every once or twice per year. They’re highly efficient and can keep most contaminants inside their folds.
• Pros: These filters need the expertise of a professional for installation which is why they’re not an DIY option similar to other AC filters. They aren’t able to eliminate smells.

If your air conditioner ductwork is old, damaged, or not functioning properly, it can affect your comfort and energy bill. At AC Repair Los Angeles we provide Efficient Air Conditioning Duct Repair Services by experienced and trained HVAC professionals. The team AC Repair Techs provides high-level services for every one of our clients while treating them honestly and respectfully. If you hire our HVAC Contractor team, you can rest assured that the job will be done right the first time and with a 100% guarantee. With our team handling your air conditioner duct issues, you can rest assured that the job will be done right the first time.