Different Types of HVAC Filters Explained

Properly caring for your furnace includes regularly changing the unit’s filter. A clean air filter helps your HVAC system to perform efficiently and keeps dust and other irritating particles from circulating throughout your home in your River Oaks, Texas. Whether you use a fiberglass, pleated or electrostatic HVAC filter house depends on your home’s indoor air quality needs.

Fiberglass Filters

Fiberglass filters are the most common type of HVAC air filter available. Crafted from strands of fiberglass spun together, this type of filter traps large airborne particles, including dust. Fiberglass air filters are normally used in both furnace units and air conditioners. These filters are disposable, inexpensive and effective, but they lack the air-purifying features of more high-tech filters.

Pleated Filters

A step up from fiberglass filters, pleated filters prevent dust from entering your HVAC system while trapping airborne particles and allergens such as pet dander and dust mites. Choose between a washable or disposable type for your HVAC system.

A pleated filter is tighter than a fiberglass filter. When you choose a pleated filter, your HVAC system will work harder to pull air through the unit. While your home’s air quality increases, your HVAC system will lose some efficiency. When you’re concerned about improving indoor air quality, pleated air filters are a reasonably priced choice.

Electrostatic Filters

Electrostatic filters are even better at filtering allergens compared to pleated filters. An electrostatic filter uses small cotton and paper fibers to generate a static charge when in use. This charge attracts the smallest airborne particles like a magnet, stopping them from circulating throughout your home. Electrostatic HVAC filters come in disposable or washable types. An electrostatic filter is a more expensive than a fiberglass or a pleated filter, but it’s your best choice when allergen removal is your top priority.

Filter More With the Infinity Air Purifier

For an even stronger level of protection, consider adding an air purifier to your home’s HVAC system. The Infinity Air Purifier is a whole-home air purification system that captures up to 95 percent of particles .30 to 1.0 microns in size. It kills or inactivates up to 99 percent of pollen, germs and microbial growth, and it’s effective against 13 common pathogens. If you’re looking to complement your HVAC system’s filter with an even tougher line of defense, an air purifier is worth serious consideration.

If you’d like to receive a free 4-inch media or electrostatic filter with the purchase of a new furnace* from Conditioned Air, contact us at (281) 561-6911. We’ve been serving Texas since 1962, and our service technicians can help you choose the right heating system and filter for your home.

*Offer valid on replacement of Performance or Infinity Furnace. Call for complete details.
This blog was originally published on November 20, 2016, and has since been updated.

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