Types of HVAC Filters and the Best Option for You

HVAC filters are the linchpin in any heating or cooling unit. They distinguish between air filled with pollutants and clean, healthy air. The various filter options can be challenging, especially if you are new to the HVAC world.

Here’s a simple guide outlining six types of filters to help you determine the best one for your HVAC in Rancho Cucamonga.

Kinds of HVAC Filters

Air filters primarily differ in their ability to filter various airborne pollutants. In turn, this depends on the type and layout of the material used in the filters. Here are six popular types of air filters.

Fiberglass or Spun Glass Filters

They have thin strands of glass spun together, reinforced by a metal grate. They are the most common type but can only filter debris like lint, dust, and other particles of 3.0 to 10.0 microns.

  • Pros: An inexpensive option. They can remove pollen and dust.
  • Cons: Cannot purify indoor air. They become easily clogged and require regular HVAC maintenance in Rancho Cucamonga.

Pleated Filters

These contain a polyester or cotton medium arranged into folds to enhance the surface area of the filter. Filters with more pleats are more effective at catching small pollutants like pet dander and mold spores.

  • Pros: They are more effective and last longer than fiberglass filters.
  • Cons: More expensive than fiberglass. HVAC repair in Rancho Cucamonga advise that filters with too many pleats may restrict airflow.

UV Light Filters

These HVAC filters in Rancho Cucamonga use a UV lamp that emits germicidal radiation that rids your space of bacteria, viruses, and mold spores. However, they can potentially convert oxygen into ozone, leading to minor health concerns like chest pain and coughing. They also do not keep out air pollutants.

  • Pros: Thoroughly remove disease-causing organisms from your home.
  • Cons: They are ineffective against pollutants and allergens.

High-efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) Filters

They are one of the most effective HVAC filters and can remove 99.97% of airborne pollutants and allergens. They are specifically popular among people with allergies and respiratory problems. You may need an expert to fit this filter into your unit to avoid unnecessary HVAC repair in Rancho Cucamonga.

  • Pros: They are effective against small and large pollutants. They are more cost-effective in the long run as they last for a few years.
  • Cons: They cannot filter minute particles of fumes, smoke, or other gasses.

Electrostatic Filters

These filters feature a mix of cotton and paper fibers that create static electricity. It acts as a magnet that traps pollutants in the filter screen, preventing allergens from spreading in your home. They often come with an additional carbon filter for better efficiency.

  • Pros: They are affordable and come in washable and disposable forms.
  • Cons: They fail to trap large particles like dust or mold spores.

Media Filters

Media filters contain a paper-like material pleated inside a metal cabinet. They offer a high level of filtration without any airflow restriction. The enhanced surface area of this filter makes it more effective than standard air filters and gives it an extended lifespan.

  • Pros: They can last up to two years and require minimal maintenance. They trap pollutants in their folds.
  • Cons: You’ll need an HVAC repair professional in Rancho Cucamonga to install them. They are ineffective against odors.

Choosing the Best Air Filter

Apart from the materials, air filters are also distinguished based on the Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV). The rating ranged from 1-16, with 16 being the most effective. Heating replacement in Rancho Cucamonga suggest that filters with a higher MERV rating best suit people with allergies, asthma, and other respiratory issues.

However, not all systems are compatible with every HVAC system. Installing a filter with an excessive MERV rating can lower your unit’s lifespan, leading to an early cooling or heating system replacement in Rancho Cucamonga.

AC & Heat Services can help you check the unit and filter compatibility beforehand. Call us at 909-487-2734 or email us today to get the improved indoor air quality you deserve.

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