All filters have value, but some products are more valuable than others. If you need help navigating the landscape, here’s everything that you’ll need to know about the latest filters on the market.
Pleated Filters and Fiberglass Filters
Pleated filters and fiberglass filters are very economical. If you’re on a strict budget, start your journey with fiberglass filters. These fibers are not hard to find, and they’re efficient, durable, and reasonably priced. However, they do not have a long shelf life, so if you purchase these filters, you will have to replace them often. Filters with pleated surfaces will cost a bit more because they can capture more particles.
Washable Filters and Disposable Filters
These filters fall in the middle of the pack. However, in a head-to-head battle, only one product takes the crown. The winner is the disposable variety.
To understand what makes a disposable filter better than a washable filter, you must understand the purpose of each product. A washable filter can only capture large particles. It cannot trap small particles. This is not the case for a disposable filter. It can trap bacteria, smoke, and pet dander. Although you can reuse a washable filter over and over again, a disposable filter is a much better value because it has better performance capabilities.
HEPA Filters
HEPA filters are the best of the best. They’re most commonly used in industrial environments, but residential options also exist. They can capture up to 97 percent of allergens, smoke, and dust.
MERV Strategies
Every air filter has a MERV rating. If you don’t know which filter is best for your household, use this guide as a roadmap.
MERV Rating One to Six
A filter that falls in this category is fit for commercial settings. It will have no problems trapping small particles like pollen and dust.
MERV Rating Eight to 13
Filters that have this rating are fit for commercial and residential use. They can trap dust mites, mold, and carpet fibers.
MERV Rating 14 to 20
These filters can trap microscopic particles like bacteria and virus. Some filters in this category can even filter radioactive and carcinogenic materials.
Choose Climate Mechanics
Maintaining the ideal climate inside your house or business doesn’t have to be difficult. All it requires is working with the right HVAC contractors who are committed to doing the best job each time.
Climate Mechanics LLC is a family-owned-and-operated heating and cooling services company. Our NATE-certified technicians are not only excellent mechanics, but they’re also trained in customer service and can answer all your questions.
We have over 25 years in the industry, and we work with all makes and models of heating and cooling equipment. We have earned a reputation for doing heating and air conditioning repair right the first time.
