What is an air filter? According to the Washington Post, At its most basic function, an air filter removes impurities such as dust, pet dander or even bacteria from the air flowing through the system. Not only does this improve the air quality within your home, but it also protects your HVAC system from damage. There are a variety of makes and models which can make it difficult to know what fits your system. Below, we list the different types of filters and how you can determine which is best for your HVAC system.
HEPA Filter
HEPA stands for High Efficiency Particulate Air Filter. This model contains a cartridge that captures particles as air passes through it. The term HEPA is often bandied as a marketing ploy. Products that are labeled “True HEPA” will ensure the best filtering technology. The HEPA filters meet standards set by the U.S. Dept. of Energy to capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. If your goal is to reduce the amount of dust and dander floating around your home, this filter will do just that!
Unlike the HEPA filter, the air ionizer does not contain airborne particles. Instead, the filter produces protective particles which latch onto unwanted particles such as dust, dander, pollen, bacteria, and smoke. Once the particles are neutralized, they drop to the floor and furniture, doing no harm. Though this filter helps maintain healthy indoor air quality, utilizing this filter will cause frequent dusting.
Electrostatic Filter
With similar technology as the Air Ionizer and HEPA filter, this electrostatic filter removes wanted particles from the air and captures them within the filter. Making use of this type will prevent you from having to dust so much.
Activated Carbon Filter
This filter is mainly used to eliminate unpleasant odors roaming your home. Through chemical absorption, this unit contains a bed powdered charcoal which traps the impurities. For example, common household chemicals, and VOC’s.
UV Light filters are usually attached to your HVAC system. As air passes through the system, a small lamp will infiltrate the air with germicidal UV rays, purifying the contaminates. This filter is especially helpful when eliminating mold, which thrives in dark, damp areas such as your ducts.
Every home is different and your needs can vary. Anyone of these filters could be the answer to healthier indoor air quality. Still not sure on what filter is best for you? As your local duct cleaners, Amber’s Air Duct Cleaning is here to answer any questions you may have. Though these filters do a mighty good job at eliminating dust, the best way to maintain good indoor air quality is to have your ducts professionally cleaned. Call (517) 885-3000 to learn more on what filter you should use and when you should have a duct cleaning.
By aaron84lee|2021-11-02T18:20:19+00:00November 2nd, 2021|Cleaning Blog|Comments Off on Air Filters