When it comes to air conditioning, there are a variety of filter options available. From disposable fiberglass filters to washable electrostatic filters, it can be difficult to decide which type is best for your home. To help you make an informed decision, let's take a closer look at electrostatic air filters and how they compare to other types of filters. Washable or reusable electrostatic air filters are made of woven polypropylene and are charged with electricity to capture more particles than disposable fiberglass filters.
This makes them more effective, but also more expensive. However, since they are completely washable and reusable, you no longer need to keep a stack of disposable filters handy to replace them monthly. To clean them, you can simply rinse them with water or vacuum them to remove any build-up of particles. HEPA filters are another type of air filter technology that is commonly used in medical clinics, hospitals, and laboratories where extremely pure air is especially important.
These filters have a very high MERV rating, meaning they are very dense and require your air conditioning equipment to work harder to extract air through the filter. UV and HVAC air filters do not use fiberglass, cotton, plastic, or any other type of fiber to filter particulates from the air. Instead, they use ultraviolet light or other technologies to capture particles from the air. Regardless of the type of HVAC air filter you choose, some maintenance is necessary.
Disposable air filters should be replaced at least twice a year while washable air filters require special maintenance considerations. A heating and air conditioning contractor can evaluate your heater and air conditioner and recommend the best option for your home. Now that you know what an electrostatic filter is and how it compares to other types of filters, you can make an informed decision about which type is best for your home and your heating or air conditioning system. Washable electrostatic air filters may be more expensive than disposable fiberglass filters, but they are also more environmentally friendly and require less maintenance.
