Pleated filters are an advanced type of air filter that are made from a flexible material such as polyester, cotton, or paper. This material is folded in an accordion-like fashion and then housed in a cardboard frame. The pleats give the filter a larger surface area, allowing it to capture more particles in the air. This type of filter is designed to trap dust, dirt, pet and human hair, and other particles that could otherwise damage the fan of an oven or clog the coils of an air conditioner.
Additionally, pleated air filters can improve the indoor air quality of a home. Pleated air filters are more efficient than standard filters provided by manufacturers. While some older HVAC systems may be overwhelmed by pleated filters and have less air flow, most modern HVAC systems have been improved so that pleated filters do not affect performance. The average efficiency of a pleated air filter is between 25-30%, but can reach up to 45% when active carbon materials are incorporated into the surface.
Unlike other filters that experience a high pressure drop due to their high MERV rating and thus impede air flow, pleated filters do not interfere with air flow. When it comes to purchasing new air filters for an HVAC system, homeowners must consider both cost and air quality. Pleated filters can trap contaminants as small as 0.3 microns, including some viruses and bacteria. We offer pleated air filters with MERV 8, MERV 11, and MERV 13 ratings in various sizes and quantities. Fiberglass oven filters may be cheaper than pleated filters, but they must be replaced monthly.
Ultimately, you get what you pay for. If you want long-term savings and high-quality filters that need to be changed frequently, pleated air filters are the best choice.
