Tag Archives: filters

Air Purifiers: The Importance of Filters

HVAC, Uncategorized, , ,

When it comes to purchasing an air purifier, many individuals are concerned with the cost.  While it is important to find a product that you can afford, you need to think about more than the price. In fact, it is important to examine not only the air purifier as a whole but also its parts as well. When it comes to air purifier parts, you should focus on the filters used.

Most air purifiers use filters, but not all do. There are a number of air purifiers on the market that are filterless. This type of air purifier uses a collection grid instead of a filter, and it just needs to be wiped off to clean it. If you are looking for a low maintenance air purifier, you might want to think about purchasing an air purifier that is filterless. Despite being easier to maintain, they are usually more expensive; however,  you may find that it is worth the price in the long run.

If you choose to purchase an air purifier that uses a filter, it is important to examine the type of filter it uses. Hepa filters are one of the better types of filters available. Why are HEPA filters better? The manufacturers who make HEPA filters must abide by a number of different rules and regulations which are imposed by the Department of Energy. Because of these strict rules and regulations,  Hepa filters are almost twice as effective as most other filters when it comes to trapping bacteria or harmful air particles. Despite being more expensive than other types of filters, they will prove to be worth the extra cost.

There are a number of air purifiers on the market today that have filters which only need to be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner, but the majority of air purifier filters need to be replaced, so it is wise to know which type you have and whether you need to replace it or simply clean it with your vacuum cleaner. Replacement filters usually need to be changed about once a year, but some filters will last as long as three years; some last only a few months. Since replacement parts impact the cost of owning an air purifier, it is important that you determine the ongoing maintenance costs before making your air purifier purchase.

By keeping the above mentioned points in mind you should not only be able to purchase a quality air purifier but one that is affordable.

Understanding Our HVAC Filters

HVAC, , ,

Today, filters are a very important part of our lives. We use filters in our water systems to help filter the water we use. There are filters in our cars and trucks to help them perform efficiently. Your HVAC filter is a very important part of your heating and air conditioning unit’s performance; it helps to ensure that your family breaths clean air, reducing allergies that may be triggered by particles in the air. A clean HVAC filter will also save you money by improving the energy efficiency of your unit. There are three classifications of air conditioning filters based on the materials they are made of as well as the operations they perform. The three classifications are mechanical, electronic, and pleated air filters; we will take a look at each type.

Mechanical Air Filters

This is the most common air conditioning filter used in homes today. The mechanical filter uses synthetic fibers to catch small particles and debris. Mechanical filters are also available as a charcoal filter. Disposable fiberglass filters are available in various sizes to accommodate any HVAC air exchanger. A disposable fiberglass filter is the most economical but also the least effective. Disposable fiberglass filters will need to be thrown away and replaced by a new filter after use.

Pleated Air Filters

A pleated air filter will remove around 35 to 40 percent of the air pollutants found in your home. They are more effective than a mechanical filter because of the denser construction. They contain more fibers per square inch than a mechanical filter. Naturally the denser the fibers, the more particles they will absorb and remove from the air. These filters are more expensive, but you get what you pay for.

Electronic Air Filter

The electronic filter is the most expensive of the three types; it is also the most effective. It will trap the smallest of dust particles and debris. An electronic filter will also filter smaller molecules such as smoke, mold, and pet odors. These filters will have a longer life—lasting up to 6 months in some cases. Electronic filters are also marketed as allergy-free filters.

Air conditioning filters are classified into categories according to their MERV rating. Filters belonging to the MERV 7 category will remove larger particles and provide standard protection. MERV 8 filters will provide higher protection against pet odors, dust, and pollen particles. The best filters are found in the MERV 11 category. These filters will provide the best protection from allergies and asthma illnesses. If you have any question about which type of filter would be best for you and your family, check with your HVAC contractor to help you with your decision.

           

          Â