Made of cotton or polyester, pleated filters are one of the most popular and efficient filter options. Its effectiveness, however, varies according to the folds per foot. For a pleated filter to have an efficiency rating of 10 to 13, it must have at least 18 folds per foot. Air filters play an important role in our indoor environment, protecting building occupants and equipment from the effects of poor indoor air quality, dust, particles and pollutants.
Just as important, they protect your HVAC system from unnecessary maintenance and malfunction. Installing inefficient air filters can cost you wasted energy, additional maintenance costs, damaged equipment, and unproductive workers.When it comes to air filters, many people only consider the starting price as a factor when buying one. However, the real cost is the long-term expense of using an air filter. To help you make an informed decision, here's a look at some of the most common high-efficiency air filters, their advantages and applications.
You'll also learn how you can determine the lifecycle of your filter for greater efficiency and long-term cost savings.
Filtrete Micro Allergen Defense Filter
The Filtrete Micro Allergen Defense filter is without a doubt one of the best there is. Filtrete is arguably the most popular filter brand out there, and for a very good reason. Filtrete 20x25x1 AC Oven Air Filter Filtrete 10x20x1 AC Oven Air Filter can capture most large particles in the air. It is compatible with most HVAC systems and comes in an affordable six-pack for whole-home protection.However, you may neglect that if you have purchased an AC filter that is prohibitively expensive.In addition, an oft-cited comprehensive independent test of the effects of MERV filters 8 to 13 on HVAC airflow and energy consumption (an indicator of how hard the equipment is working) concluded that even “if no adjustments are made for the increased pressure drop of high MERV filters, airflow and energy penalties are unlikely to be severe at least, not until the filter is loaded with dirt.
FilterBuy 16x25x1 Pleated AC HVAC Oven Air Filter
Replacing a filter takes a few seconds, while cleaning a reusable filter and letting it dry can take much longer. Due to its durability, the FilterBuy 16x25x1 Pleated AC HVAC Oven Air Filter can last three times longer than other filters. This oven air filter promises to last up to three months and outperform filters made of fiberglass.Nordic Pure MERV 12
Many people opt for medium-efficiency MERV filters such as the Nordic Pure MERV 12 as they can greatly reduce airborne dust, mold spores, pollen and even smoke. This can help alleviate respiratory ailments according to NIH review.However, these filters have some drawbacks: first, they usually cost significantly more than basic fiberglass filters.
