So I take it that you believe the fiberglass filters don't really protect the internal workings of a furnace/AC from anything smaller than a bug? For personal assistance with your air filter needs, please contact us now onlineor call us at(855) 237-1673and we will do our very best to assist you in selecting the right filter for your individual needs. With so many air filter options, it can be confusing to figure out which air filter to choose. The fiberglass media of non-restrictive filters is very porous and does not restrict airflow. When Is a Tankless Hot Water Heater the Best Choice. Despite the fact that pleated air filters are not the cheapest option, they provide better air filtration than fiberglass panel filters. Washable filters need to be maintained well to ensure they work as they should. If you have any questions about what type of air filter is right for your home please clickHEREor call one of City Heat and Airs trained professionals at 865-938-1005 today! A MERV rating between 6-13 is recommended for residential use and 5-16 MERV for commercial environments. Air Filters, Inc. is committed to providing a "one-stop shop" for all of your air filtration requirements. THEY DO CATCH A LOT MORE SMALL PARTICLES IN THE AIR AND ARE RECOMMENDED FOR PEOPLE WITH CHILDREN AND/OR PETS, OR THAT ARE SMOKERS. The MERV rating of these units is much broader, so you can get one that traps smaller particles, as well as the main contaminants responsible for irritating any respiratory system. This type of filter has self-charging cotton or paper fibers that create a positive charge which attracts air impurities such as dust, dirt, and allergies as air passes through it. When determining which filter is right for you and your needs you might consider price, changeout frequency, air flow/restriction, construction quality, and MERV rating/efficiency. LET US HELP YOU REMEMBER SO YOU DON'T HAVE TO! We are dedicated to providing professional assistance that improves your indoor air quality. Making Your Addition a Haven of Comfort with Ductless. As a result, we cannot show you the price in catalog or the product page. However, they are not as durable as pleated filters and if they are not replaced frequently, they run the risk of falling apart and damaging your HVAC unit. Those who live with allergies or other respiratory issues may benefit from HEPA filters the most. Pleated filters also have a longer service life (up to 90 days) and have a higher dust holding capacity. An added bonus for electrostatic filters is they are available as disposable as well as reusable. Of thedifferent types of AC filtersavailable, spun glass is one of the most effective. THEY ARE PREMIUM-PRICED AND CAN ONLY BE INSTALLED IN CERTAIN HOMES BECAUSE OF THEIR THICK SIZE. The main argument with users of the fiberglass filters is that it will save you money, but keep in mind that youll have to replace these filters monthly (if not more frequently depending on how highly trafficked your environment is) and youll get what you pay for. I've noticed my house is significantly less dusty now that I'm using the Flanders filters. FIBERGLASS FILTERS HAVE VERY LITTLE EFFECT ON ACTUALLY CLEANING THE AIR. Which one is better? Buy them in a 3 pack at Home Depot. I've been doing ALOT of reading and research on this subject and can't find a definitive impartial opinion on which filter to use.My situation : 2 year old Goodman 95% furnace and a/c unit. For some years I used the fiberglass filters. With the temperatures cooling here in the Fort Worth area, many residents are choosing to get their HVAC systems ready for the fall and winter months ahead. Watch helpful videos from AFI. How to Maintain Your Air Purifier for Maximum Performance? THE HIGH-EFFICIENCY PLEATED FILTERS ARE HIGHLY RECOMMENDED TO THOSE WHO HAVE RESPIRATORY PROBLEMS OR AN AUTO-IMMUNE DISEASE. She's planning her own renovation and daydreaming about what to include. These filters do need to be adjusted by a contractor to fit your specific HVAC system. Worked well with my dog in the house. Here is a link that might be useful: Here is a 4. Therefore, they dont have many options in terms of more efficient filters for smaller particles. Filters with more pleats will provide better filtering than those with fewer pleats, trapping even difficult allergens and pollutants, like pet dander and mold spores. You must have JavaScript enabled in your browser to utilize the functionality of this website. creek_side.whats the brand you are referring too?.thx, I am asking about using a 3M pleated dust reduction filter. We will do our best to make and ship your order as soon as possible! I have sealed my duct system and used brush on mastic but I know it is still not sealed perfect enough to justify a 1400 filter. Receive our full product catalog via email.
(Don't try it when the filter is inside the system). FIBERGLASS FILTERS ARE ALMOST WORTHLESS.HVAC PEOPLE RECOMMEND THEM BECAUSE OF LOW AIR RESISTANCE.PLEATED FILTERS ARE MUCH BETTER BUT STAY AWAY FROM ANYTHING WITH A MERV RATING HIGHER THAN 8. While these filters have a low MERV rating, they are a great long-term investment for someone who doesnt have strong preferences about HVAC filter types and doesnt need any specialty filters. All rights reserved. The right window treatments can provide privacy, light control and safety or just better style, Its ecofriendly, low-maintenance design leaves a family with more time to relax and enjoy the weekend home, Bumps and thumps might be driving you crazy, but they also might mean big trouble. With more than 65 years of experience in the home heating and cooling industry, we provide quality products and services that just cant be beat. In todays blog, well review four of the more common filter types and explore the pros and cons of each one to make the replacement process easier. Fiberglass air filters? Fiberglass air filters have media that is loosely woven with a low MERV rating, which means many air pollutants pass through the filter sending the allergens and particulates back into the circulating air. We even offer a five-year warrantyon labor. Pleated AC/furnace filtersare available in an 8-13 MERV rating and can last up to 90 days without requiring a filter changeout. Oil companies with good techs warn to use fiberglass filters on HVAC systems and use separate HEPA machine(s) for air quality throughout house. At Home Climates, we provide everything from plumbing services to water treatment, and we service all brands of equipment. All air filters have a MERV rating that vary between 1-20. The filtered dirt is sealed into the filter, preventing it from being expelled back into your home. No filter is universal, so its important to make sure the filter you purchase is the correct size to fit in your HVAC system. We give you the lowdown and which pro to call for help, From the banal to the downright bizarre, these uncovered artifacts may get you wondering what may be hidden in your own home, Halloween horror got nothing on your basement, attic or closet? Fiberglass is great for capturing dust and lint. Indoor air quality is an important part of maintaining your health, and Home Climates is dedicated to offering over-the-top service for reasonable prices to ensure your home stays comfortable. Our price is lower than the manufacturer's "minimum advertised price." Manufactured using a premium pleated synthetic fiber media, these filters allow for an increased surface area to capture more airborne pollutants. Cons: While they are inexpensive, they are a bare bones filter. Because fiberglass filters are panel filters, they have a low dust holding capacity and are not able to filter fine air pollutants like dust, pet dander, pollen, mold spores, bacteria, and viruses. Cons: If your furnace requires a custom sized filter, these can be expensive. When it comes time to replace the air filter on your furnace, there are a lot of options to choose from.
Pleated filters are made using a premium synthetic fiber media that effectively traps fine dust, pollen, pet dander, dust mites, bacteria and more. UV filters are excellent for killing microorganisms that could be hazardous to your health, including mold spores. Check your inbox or spam folder to confirm your subscription. The frame is made of heavy-duty beverage board that ensures the filters integrity even in high humidity environments. Fiberglass filters are worthless. Click the link.. Copyright 2016 - Arthur Hagar Air Conditioning & Heating, Arthur Hagar Air Conditioning and Heating, Protecting Your HVAC System After a Storm. How to Get Hot Water Faster, 8 Ways to Increase Your Homes Humidity in Winter. fiberglass filters are next to worthless for dust. This type of filter will provide minimal air cleaning benefits and may not be the best choice for those who have allergies or breathing disorders. Generally, filters will have a thickness of 1 inch for common systems and a thickness of 5 inches for larger HVAC systems. Since they dont have a lot of surface area, they dont filter out smaller items such as pollen, bacteria, or viruses. SIGN UP NOW TO SET UP A REMINDER TO CHANGE YOUR AIR FILTERS! If the filter(s) are not right at the furnace/air handler and are behind the return vent putting a high merv on these systems pull even more air through unsealed nooks and crannies and in some systems it is gaping holes. While they can effectively filter dust and other airborne pollutants, they provide low air filtration and are less resistant to airflow. Non starter, since once things overheat it can take up to 48 hours to get everything cool again in a heat wave. The problem appears when you get their micro allergen reduction series and above. MERV stands for minimum efficiency reporting value, and this is a means of rating the effectiveness of air filters. Some of the filterete filters don't really have that much air resistance. Pleated air filters are made from cotton, paper, or polyester sheets that are folded into pleats, increasing their surface area. PLEASE NOTE: Manufacturing and shipping times may be extended. If a person can run a 4" filter its unbelievable about the amount of actual filter media and surface area for air to flow in comparison to a 1" filter. Fiberglass filters cost just a few dollars. As the name suggests, this type of filter has a pleated body and is also disposable like its fiberglass counterpart. Plumbing Inspections & Water Leak Detection, Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV), Tips for Controlling Your Homes Humidity, How to Add Another Bathroom to Your House: Tips for a Low-Cost, Easy Upgrade, Why Does It Take So Long to Get Hot Water? Haven't had to clean a coil yet, after 15 years. difference between pleated and fiberglass air filters, How to Maximize the Performance of Your Dehumidifier. Much less restrictive than the 3M filters, and they're sturdy enough that they don't make crinkling noises when the blower kicks on. There are standard sizes, but the exact filter size will depend on your HVAC system and its specifications. The synthetic media is reinforced with an expanded metal backing and is housed in a heavy-duty die-cut beverage board frame. MAKE SURE THE PLEATED FILTERS YOU BUY HAVE AT LEAST 15 PLEATS PER FOOT. Contact your local authorities for more information. DISPOSABLE PLEATED FILTERS DO A BETTER JOB OF REMOVING SOME SMALL PARTICLES FROM THE AIR, ARE STILL RELATIVELY INEXPENSIVE, AND YOU MAY BE ABLE TO FIND SOME MADE FROM GREEN MATERIALS. Part of this important seasonal task is replacing the home air filter on your furnace, and if youve ever stood in the filter aisle at your local home improvement store, you know that the options can be a little overwhelming. Need to know how to install your filters? Want to work for Air Filters Inc.? Yes, fiberglass filters are safe. High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are recommended by the U.S. Department of Health because they are able toremove at least 99.97%of airborne allergens and pollutantsincluding mold spores and dust that are as small as 0.3 microns. Lets take a look in detail. With pleated synthetic fiber media, these filters provide a large surface area for capturing more airborne pollutants. The magnetism is strong enough that it keeps these particles from spreading throughout your home, making them one of the best choices for those who need a filter that can combat allergens. Even the slightest bit of moisture left can lead to mold and mildew developing on the filter and being expelled into the air you breathe. Cons: Although these filters are relatively inexpensive and can be great for improving indoor air quality, they can cause more resistance for the airflow in your furnace, which can increase operating expenses. Manufactured using a premium pleated synthetic fiber media, these filters allow for an increased surface area to capture more airborne pollutants. An efficient home air filter is essential for ensuring the indoor air quality in your home is as pure as possible. Nevertheless, fiberglass filters should typically be replaced every 30 days in order to prevent the filter from becoming fully loaded with debris and pollutants, preventing air from passing through easily.
Pros: Electrostatic home air filters are available in most standard sizes and are a great option for homeowners with kids, pets, and smokers. I use a washable electrostatic filter - seems to allow decent airflow, has saved me a fortune on the expensive disposables. Turn On Your HVAC System and Say Bye-Bye To Seasonal Allergies, Buying Guide To Choose The Best HVAC System, How to Pick the Best Air Filter for Your HVAC. We replaced three sequincers. Proper HVAC filters can make the difference between stuffy air filled with pollutants and clean air thats healthyandeasyto breathe. As one of the main types of air filters, they come with maintenance instructions that should be followed. The fact the filter is pleated does not cause excessive restriction. Finally the they checked our filter only to be told that the pleated filter should not be used on our furnace. Another reason why people choose these filters is that they provide the least amount of airflow resistance for HVAC systems. While some older HVAC systems may be strained with pleated filters and experience less airflow, most modern HVAC systems have been improved so that pleated filters have no impact on performance. Boilers vs Water Heaters: Whats the Difference? Pleated AC/furnace filters have a MERV rating of 8-13 and can last up to 90 days without replacement. If you want your air filter to stop viruses then we recommend the REME Halo air purifier, which reliably purifies the air in your home to make it healthy for you and your family.

For this reason, these filters arent recommended for people who have respiratory problems and need a filter that will improve the indoor air quality. Home Depot and Lowes carry them. They are readily available for as little as $1.00 each.. Fiberglass filtersare often referred to as throwaway or disposable filters because they typically last no longer than 30 days. But if youre seeking an air purifier, a more high-tech option would be more suitable. Polyester fabrics or cotton folds are two HVAC filter materials used in pleated filters. Pleated filters have a MERV rating between 5 and 13. Most of these filters are permanent, but there are some disposable ones, and the accumulated impurities remain on the filter until it is washed or disposed of. The fibreglass one provides the support needed and the black filter does a superb job of filtering. A fiberglass filter is made of spun glass and protected with a cardboard frame. The higher the MERV rating, the finer the particles the filter can trap and block from recirculating back into the air. I have, however, had a problem with the Flanders filters.My system uses 20x20 filters, and that isn't a nominal measurement, that is an absolute. Our company carried exclusively name brand HVAC units, parts, and accessories while offering no-hassle annual inspections and more. These filters arent known for improving air quality since they are unable to strain very much and can only trap some dust and allergens. Indoor air quality is a crucial element for any homeowner, especially if members of your household have respiratory problems. If using the permanent filter, there is less waste generated because it is reusable. As their name suggests, UV filters use short-wave ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and viruses. I found the perfect remedy years ago. Fiberglass filters have a very low MERV rating between 2-3 efficiency. I have a deep filter tray with tabs for 1" filters or with the tabs folded up a 4" slides down in. THEY DO NEED TO BE CHANGED OUT A LOT MORE FREQUENTLY, AND CAN BE MORE DIFFICULT ON YOUR HVAC SYSTEM DUE TO THE FACT THEY RESTRICT AIR FLOW MORE THAN A FIBERGLASS FILTER. Theyre able to remove even the smallest microns or airborne particles, including tobacco and bacteria. If the filters are even a tiny bit oversized, they jam and I can't get them into the filter box. City Heating and Air, 2022. The UV light is invisible to the human eye, and the lightbulbs generally need to be replaced every year, depending on the make and model of the HVAC system. Media filters provide the same level of filtration as a high-MERV filter, but they do it without the negative consequences of airflow or static pressure. Flat Porous Media: Low dust holding capacity, Pleated Media: High dust holding capacity, MERV 8-13 (effectively stops and traps air containments from recirculating). I would not add additional filtering the the fiberglass filter without knowing how much added restriction is being added. Frozen coils in central air will ice over in summer when you need it most. THEY ARE TOO AIR RESTRICTIVE AND CAN CAUSE PROBLEMS WITH A/C COILS ICING UP OR HEAT EXCHANGERS BURNING UP. THEY CAN BE USED FOR UP TO 6-8 YEARS REDUCING OVERALL COSTS AND WASTE. When air passes through the HVAC unit, the UV lamps disinfect it with germicidal radiation. as far as air filtration goes for pollen/dust etcIll be using a 20" box fan with a 20x20 pleated air filter attached :=). If you have any questions about what type of air filter is right for your home please click. If you have a custom size, Pleated MERV8's are also available in a new 'reusable' format. If you have a standard size, MERV7 and MERV8 efficiency filters will work just fine. Pleated AC/furnace filters have a, Pleated air filters contain more surface area, so they capture more and smaller debris. Houzz Pro: One simple solution for contractors and design pros, Learn what exactly spray foam is, the pros and cons of using it and why you shouldnt mess around with installation, If you're itching to reduce allergy symptoms, this mini guide to reducing allergens around the house can help, You can't eliminate dust during construction, but there are ways to contain and remove as much of it as possible, Powered by sunshine and built with salvaged materials, this Canadian home is an experiment for green building practices. Browse a full list of industry terms to better choose your filters. They would stop some dust, but I think it was just luck.
filtrete The initial price of thisair filter type for HVAC systems is high, but it should be viewed as an investment that will last for many years. P.S. Media filters are very easy to maintain and great for filtering bacteria and other small airborne pollutants. This is why they are often part of a larger filtration mechanism, which includes HEPA air filters. My 4" thick filters have 12 FEET of filter media on a 20x25x4". While there are various air filters available, most shoppers end up choosing between pleated and fiberglass furnace filters. Pleated air filters? DISPOSABLE FIBERGLASS FILTERS: THESE FILTERS ARE VERY INEXPENSIVE AND ARE SUFFICIENT FOR PEOPLE WITH NO ALLERGIES OR ASTHMA. I have seen 1400merv filters which is crazy. That we should use the fiberglass filter. Site Managed and Created by Smarketing, LLC. Its wise to speak to an HVAC professional before making any decisions about air filters. However, with this ease of airflow comes lower quality air filtration. While not the cheapest option, pleated air filters provide superior air filtration to fiberglass panel filters. Well perform an inspection of your entire HVAC system to ensure its ready for the changing temperatures ahead. Using small cotton and paper fibers, electrostatic filters create static that acts as a magnet for dust and other airborne particles. Lets begin with fiberglass panel filters. How Long Does It Take A New AC System To Cool, Sweating on top of handler located in an HVAC closet. Take advantage of our quality products, vast selection, low prices, and enjoy FREE SHIPPING on every air filter order within the Contiguous USA. Goodman GSX140301KB air comes on but not cool enough. The pleats in these filters give them an advantage over non-pleated options because they increase the filters surface area for better filtering. I cover the fibreglass filter with the black filter material they use on window AC units. To help gather information and weigh your options, you can compare the basic pros and cons of each filter type. When you have so many air-filter options to choose from, it can be overwhelming sometimes. Depending on where you live, pleated air filters may be recyclable. Below, weve listed four of the most common residential filters available along with the advantages and disadvantages of each one. When you have so many air-filter options to choose from, it can be overwhelming sometimes. plain and simple fiberglass filters are just above worthless.
electrostatic I use a Honeywell 4" MERV10 pleated filter FC40R1078 which has a lip and fits into many return ducts designed for standard 1" filters. With a MERV rating nearing 16, HEPA filters provide the highest protection for your home. The MERV scale ranges from 1 to 20, and the higher the MERV rating, the more efficient the filter will be in trapping airborne particles. The type of air filter you choose the next time you need a filter change can make all the difference in the quality of air in your home. While fiberglass filters work, pleated filters do an overall better job at filtering and trapping common small airborne pollutants and contaminates. It makes for one of the best AC filter types because it is cost-effective, disposable and it protects air conditioners and furnaces from debris. Some people need HVAC system filters that will keep the air free of allergens and other pollutants, while others just need a basic filter to get the job done. Lets take a look at each filter type and its characteristics to narrow down the types that may be a good fit for your home. Why is Air Conditioning Maintenance So Important? Does Your HVAC Improve Indoor Air Quality? I'm getting a full year's use out of them in So. Lets begin with fiberglass panel filters. If you have any questions about which air filter is best for your home and HVAC system (or any other questions about AC, custom air filters, Whole House filters or Grille filters), we have an experienced staff ready to help answer any questions you may have. Additionally, these filters are reinforced with an expanded metal backing and heavy-duty frame. Understanding the different air filter types for homes is the first step to getting the improved indoor air quality you deserve.