HVAC 101: Types Of Filters

Looking for the right air filter can be a daunting task. Whether you’re looking to improve indoor air quality or simply want less maintenance for your system over time, your filter is a vital part of your HVAC system’s health. Looking into new and different forms can increase efficiency, save power and even filter out key allergens from your air.

Here at Heblon Heating & Air Conditioning in Meridian, Mississippi, we know how important good air quality is for our customers. When looking at the many different options for filters, know those other materials will drastically affect your machine’s maintenance, cost and energy efficiency.

UV Filters

The UV (ultraviolet) filter is one of the unique filters in professional AC maintenance. Using ultraviolet light, this filter purifies by stopping the reproduction of bacteria. This makes it perfect for removing bacteria and viruses that can cause illness and odors but makes it incredibly inefficient against dust, dirt and other allergens such as pet dander.

These filters have a unique form of operation but generally aren’t used by themselves. Using a UV filter in tandem with a filter that captures particles can significantly increase air quality. However, this cost can add up quickly as UV filters need replacement monthly, on top of your second filter’s maintenance.

Fiberglass Filters

Fiberglass filters are made of a thick blue material that catches larger particles. It’s a product that can reduce the dust and dirt going through your systems, but it doesn’t work efficiently in catching small contaminates such as bacteria and viruses. Fiberglass filters aren’t generally popular, but they are one of the less expensive options at only a few dollars apiece.

These filters are available at most hardware stores but decrease the efficiency of your heating and cooling system. This can be detrimental to the lifespan of older models and can increase your energy costs over time. This, combined with the fact that these filters don’t eliminate the most common allergens, makes them the least effective option for some air purification issues.

Pleated Filters

Pleated filters are made with a wire-backed structure and made of pliable material. These generally include copper, paper or cotton. They catch particles much smaller than average, down to 0.3 microns. These capture many allergens, including pet dander.

Many types of pleated filters are available, and finding the right one is often a tradeoff between cost and longevity. If you’re willing to pay a higher upfront cost for more use, you may want to invest in a HEPA filter. If you’re going to pay less upfront, you can opt for a non-pleated alternative or less protection for pet dander and other common allergens.

HEPA Filters

When looking for professional air purification, HEPA filters are the most efficient. This type of pleated filter is energy efficient and lasts for quite an extended amount of time. HEPA stands for “high-efficiency particulate air,” which is the specialty of the filter. They eliminate allergens and particles through four methods, being direct impaction, sieving, interception and diffusing.

HEPA filters catch 99.97% dust, dirt, pollen and other allergens. Many specifications are tailored to your filter needs, including odor control, pet fortification and more. While they cost more than other filters, they last about 90 days between changes. HEPA filters have proven to increase indoor air quality while not bogging down your machine.

Call Now For Better Meridian Indoor Air Quality!

Trying to learn about the different available filters can be difficult, but finding great indoor air quality doesn’t have to be! We believe that every HVAC unit has a perfect filter at Heblon Heating & Air Conditioning in Meridian, Mississippi. If you’re wondering how to increase your air conditioning and heating efficiency, call today!