Are All HVAC Filters the Same?
Your heat pump, furnace, or mini-split no doubt comes with a filter, which keeps particulate matter from harming the components. There are different types of filters, though, with a different capacity for doing the job they were made for.
Some Filters Have More Surface Area
First of all, you should know the difference between the two types of disposable filters: fiberglass and pleated. The pleated kind has a greater surface area than the fiberglass kind thanks to their pleats, or folds, and can last up to 90 days. Fiberglass filters, by contrast, need replacing after 30 days.
Some Filter Out Finer Particles
The most critical difference lies in what sort of particles a filter can capture. The differences are reflected well in the MERV rating that the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers established. MERV, which stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, uses a scale that goes from one to 16 with one being the least effective.
MERV one to four filters, which include fiberglass filters, can capture large particles of dust, dust mites, and lint, among other things. MERV five to eight filters, under which pleated filters fall, can catch dust mite droppings, mold spores, and pet dander. The average homeowner won’t require anything above a MERV eight filter; the higher ratings are for commercial buildings, hospitals, and laboratories.
Some Are Washable and Reusable
Besides disposable filters, homeowners have the ability to choose washable electrostatic filters. Though the up-front cost is higher, these ideally don’t ever need to be replaced. These filters use an electrostatic charge to attract and hold onto pollutants, and their MERV rating usually falls within the desired five to eight range.
Hire Our NATE-Certified Technicians
Serving the people of Doniphan, NE, since 1992, Kayl Heating & Air is particularly known for its maintenance work. Let us replace or clean your filters as part of our biannual tune-ups. We’re proud to be a Carrier Factory Authorized Dealer and a winner of the Carrier President’s Award in 2018, and we can handle your heating, cooling, and duct-cleaning needs. Call today to ask any questions.
