You know that all HVAC systems need filters, but did you know there are several kinds available? In fact, the type of HVAC filter you choose can have significant impacts on your system’s performance. For maximum comfort and wellness, make sure you’re using the filter that’s right for your Gatlinburg, TN, home.
Fiberglass HVAC Filters
Also known as flat panel filters, fiberglass air filters are the most inexpensive option for most HVAC systems. As the name suggests, they’re simply flat, disposable panels composed of fiberglass. The fibrous material is quite porous, allowing air to pass through freely while trapping larger particles. However, fiberglass filters struggle to remove many smaller contaminants and are unlikely to improve your indoor air quality.
Pleated Media Filters
If you’re looking for a compromise between price and performance, you might consider a pleated filter. Pleated filters typically use less porous filtration media, which makes them better at snagging small particles. In addition, the media is folded like an accordion to significantly increase its total surface area. As a result, pleated filters offer reasonable protection against airborne particulates without sharply restricting airflow. These filters are also typically of higher quality and can go longer without requiring routine maintenance.
HEPA Filters
When it comes to indoor air quality, it’s hard to beat a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. To meet HEPA standards, a filter must remove at least 99.97% of particles of typical size. This includes dust, pollen, aerosols and even many airborne pathogens. Thanks to their superior filtration performance, HEPA filters are especially recommended for allergy sufferers and people with respiratory illnesses. However, HEPA filters can also constrict airflow to some extent, so it’s important to make sure your system can support them.
The right HVAC filters can help both you and your climate control system breathe more easily. To explore all your filtration options, talk to your local indoor air quality professionals at LB Chase Mechanical.
