Getting to Know More About Furnace Filters
Having the best furnace filter in your home and replacing it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations is one of the easiest ways to improve indoor air quality and cut down on operating costs. However, you may not know which filter is the best one for your home and your furnace. The simple answer is that the best one for you is the filter that does what you need it to do.
Fiberglass Filters
The least costly and easiest to find is the fiberglass filter. In our experience, these filters catch large things, such as hair and dust bunnies, but allow a significant amount of dust to pass through into the HVAC system. We do not recommend these for any of our customers
Pleated Filters
This type of filter is one step up from the fiberglass filter. They are made of cotton fibers and polyester. They do a better job of trapping small impurities like mites, dust, and spores. If your objective is improving indoor air quality, pleated filters will make a noticeable difference. These are the types of filters that should be used when your filter is in the return air grill of your HVAC system. They should also be changed once a month.
Electrostatic Filters
With this type of filter, cotton fibers are combined with electrostatic paper. They automatically charge themselves as air passes through them. In addition to removing particles that pleated filters do, they also are effective at removing smoke or pet dander from the air. These filters come in the permanent variety that will last up to 10 years or disposable ones that last about two months.
Activated Carbon Filters
These filters are typically larger and infused with activated carbon to help trap odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs are the chemicals found in many home building materials, personal care and household products. These chemicals are released into the air we breathe and can have adverse effects on the health of anyone. Those with asthma or heightened sensitivity to chemicals will likely experience even greater health problems from this exposure.
PCO Filters
One of the products we offer—the Lennox® PureAir™—combines a large, pleated Merv 16 filter with the photocatalytic oxidation (PCO) process to eliminate airborne particles, germs and bacteria, and VOCs. The PCO technology uses ultraviolet light rays to neutralize airborne contaminants which helps to prevent the spread of viruses and other infectious bacteria.
HEPA Bypass Filter
Typically coupled with another filter in your HVAC system, the high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter traps 99.97% of particles in the air that are .3 microns. It uses a sealed design to prevent airborne particles from recirculating throughout your home. It also provides strong filtration while not putting a strain on your system’s airflow—the ultimate in air filtration.
Consult the Professionals
You can take the guesswork out of your home’s furnace filter needs with the help of Metal Masters. We have locations in both Medford and Klamath Falls. We specialize in home heating, air conditioning, and air quality. Our trained professionals work with you from installation to regular maintenance to repair work. In addition, we offer the finest commercial heating and air services. Contact us and learn more about our company and great team.