Different types of filters and schedules for different lifestyles
Heating and air filters come in a wide variety so you can get the best indoor air quality available. Secondly, filters protect your heating and cooling components from debris which can cause breakdowns and mechanical failures.
Removal of these contaminants helps your heating and air unit perform efficiently. It also improves your indoor air, creating a healthy environment for you and your loved ones.
The Right Filter for You and Your Heating and Air System
Not every heating and air system uses the same filter, which means you need to know the difference between filters and which your manufacturer recommends. Different types of filters include:
Fiberglass/Synthetic Filters
These filters are the cheapest option for your heating and air needs. They are great at filtering out larger contaminants but do not trap harmful pollutants before they enter your ductwork.
Fiberglass/synthetic filters prevent dirt and dust from accumulating on the major components inside your heating and air unit. Even with minimum protection, your system maintains maximum airflow.
Pleated Heating and Air Filters
These filters offer high-efficiency filtration by trapping particulates as small as 0.3 microns in size, including various bacteria and viruses. Pleated filters last longer compared to disposable fiberglass/synthetic filters and are more efficient. You will experience greater airflow and healthier indoor air with a pleated filter.
Polyester Filters
Polyester filters trap and kill between 80 to 95 percent of particulates 5 microns or larger. They are median-sized and made of the highest quality materials available. They cost more than disposable filters, and they provide more protection against contaminants which compromise your indoor air quality.
Electrostatic Heating and Air Filters
These filters use self-charging fibers to extract pollutants from your air. You can purchase disposable electrostatic filters or washable ones. Washable electrostatic filters have MERV ratings between 4 and 10 and last longer than other filters. Wash the filter using soap and water and air-dry the filter before reinstalling into your heating and air unit.
HEPA Filters
High-efficiency particulate air filters, also known as HEPA filters, deliver filtration which traps and eliminates up to 99% of particulates sized 0.3 microns or larger. HEPA filters keep indoor air clean and create a healthy environment. Unfortunately, the drawback of HEPA filters is they reduce the airflow of your heating and air unit.
Reduced airflow puts unnecessary strain on your system and costs you more money on future HVAC repairs and increased energy bills. Check with your Estes HVAC technician during a service visit. He or she can tell you if the filter you’ve purchased in the past is appropriate.
Know When to Change Your Heating and Air Filter
The average disposable filter needs to be replaced once every 2 to 3 months. Homeowners with pets need to change their filters more often than homes without pets. The same goes for homeowners who smoke inside. If you aren’t sure when your filter needs to be changed, contact Estes Services. Our technicians will check your filter, replace it, and let you know how often it needs to be changed in the future.
Changing your filter often keeps your home’s indoor air quality high and keeps your loved ones healthy throughout the year. Contact Estes Services today and schedule service to help you determine what filter is best for your heating and air system.
