When it comes to air filters, pleated air filters are often the better choice. They can capture the smallest particles, making them ideal for people with allergies or sensitivities. They are also less likely to clog up quickly and can last up to 90 days. Plus, they are recyclable in most communities, making them a great option for those who are environmentally conscious.
Fiberglass air filters are a traditional and affordable option that provides basic protection. However, they can create a lot of waste since they contain materials that cannot be recycled. On the other hand, pleated air filters are made of cloth and cardboard, which can be easily recycled. Pleated air filters have an accordion-like design that allows for a larger surface area and more effective filtration.
This design doubles the surface area of traditional fiberglass air filters without any creases. It's important to change your air filter regularly so that your system continues to operate at peak efficiency. The stiffness of pleated air filters is also beneficial because it prevents them from bending or warping while the boiler or air conditioner is running. Air filters are rated on a MERV scale of 1 to 20, with higher numbers indicating finer particles that can be filtered out of the air.
It's important to consider all factors before choosing the most appropriate air filter for your needs. Pleated air filters have more surface area, allowing them to capture more airborne contaminants and allergens, such as pollen, pet dander and mold spores. When handling a dirty pleated filter, dust will be trapped in the filter material and will not fall off easily. Creating an effective filter has been a challenge because usually the more efficient a filter is at filtering, the worse its airflow will be.
You must consider several factors before selecting the type of air filter that meets the requirements of your HVAC system. This is where pleated air filters excel and fiberglass air filters fail miserably. While some older HVAC systems may experience reduced airflow when using pleated filters, most modern systems have been improved so that pleated filters don't affect performance. When it comes to ease of use, pleated air filters are a great choice since they need to be changed frequently. The primary purpose of an air cleaner is to remove contaminants from inside your home as they enter the HVAC system.
By using synthetic media in these filters, you can trap and block smaller particles in your environment for longer than with fiberglass filters.
