When it comes to air quality, the effectiveness of air filters is measured using the MERV rating table. The cheapest disposable air filters are usually between one and four on this scale, while microparticle air filters can exceed 14. Unfortunately, reusable air filters don't work better than low-quality products, which measure less than four on the MERV scale. Washable or reusable filters can be rinsed with water or vacuumed to remove any build-up of particles. These filters are usually made of woven polypropylene and are electrostatically charged to capture more particles.
Washable air filters are more expensive than disposable air filters, but they don't need to be replaced as often. Disposable air filters are less expensive, but it is recommended to replace them at least twice a year. To better understand what type of air conditioner filter is best for your home, you'll need to understand the different types of air filter technology, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each type. Disposable pleated HVAC air filters are single-use air filters, like their fiberglass counterparts, but they are built differently. It's easy to find high-efficiency disposable HVAC filters with a MERV rating of between 9 and 12 that are capable of removing microscopic particles such as dust, emissions, and even bacteria from your home air supply. If you're one of the many homeowners who use disposable filters, you might wonder if it's beneficial to switch to a washable air filter.
As long as a little dirt and dust doesn't scare you, it's as easy as rinsing the filter with water and then spraying it with a specialized filter cleaner, which you can buy online. A washable HVAC air filter in good condition can last 5 to 10 years before needing to be replaced. On the other hand, there are other air conditioning professionals who claim that the quality of air filters is, to a large extent, a myth. Whole house filters, air filters, and oven filters are designed to capture the debris found in most homes, but no matter how clean the washable filter seems, there's no guarantee that it will be completely free of debris. There are a variety of eco-friendly air filters on the market, and many are made from recycled and recyclable materials. Ultimately, the decision to switch to a reusable filter depends on what you need for air quality.
Types of Air Filters
The two main types of air filters are disposable and reusable.Disposable air filters are made from fiberglass or paper and must be replaced every few months. Reusable air filters are made from woven polypropylene and can be washed or vacuumed clean. Both types of air filters have their advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of Disposable Air Filters
Disposable air filters are generally cheaper than reusable ones and they don't require any maintenance. They also come in a variety of sizes and MERV ratings so you can find one that fits your needs.Disposable air filters also have a higher MERV rating than reusable ones so they can capture more particles.
Advantages of Reusable Air Filters
Reusable air filters are more expensive than disposable ones but they last much longer. They also don't need to be replaced as often so they save money in the long run. Reusable air filters also have a lower MERV rating than disposable ones so they don't need to be changed as often.Conclusion
When it comes to choosing an air filter for your home, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The type of filter you choose will depend on your budget, your needs for air quality, and how often you want to replace your filter.Disposable pleated HVAC air filters offer high efficiency at an affordable price while reusable HVAC air filters offer long-term savings but may not be as effective at capturing particles.
