Furnace filters are not the most talked about items, but they have a key role in your family’s health and your HVAC unit’s health. The right furnace filter eliminates particles and keeps everything running perfectly.
These particles can have a negative effect on your health, mainly if you are allergic, but they also destroy your HVAC unit. This explains why choosing the best furnace filter or replacing it often is essential.
A furnace filter is a filter that is stationed between the air intake and the heating coil. The MERV rating system was established in 1986, and you should know about the different rating systems to buy the best filter.
MERV stands for minimum efficiency reporting value, varying significantly from one filter to another. Below we discuss the most common discount furnace filters in 2023.
Fibreglass Filters
Fibreglass filters are the cheapest options today and are made using spun fibreglass. These filters provide minimal air resistance and have a MERV rating of 2-3. These filters are perfect if your home is not dirty and you do not need the best air quality.
However, fibreglass filters are unsuitable for you if you have pets, have dust issues, or are concerned about air quality.
Pleated Filters
These filters are made using pleats that help with filtration, thanks to their surface area. These filters are constructed using cotton or polyester and have a MERV rating of 6-13, depending on how tight you wove them.
Pleated filters are more expensive than the latter but are ideal for air cleaning. Some pleated filters are designed for people with allergies or pets and have a high MERV rating. As stated above, these filters are more expensive upfront but undergo maintenance after every three months.
Electrostatic Filters
Electrostatic filters are disposable and washable. These filters are mainly pleated and made using polypropylene, a type of plastic. These filters are also made using polyester or cotton and charged dust particles. Remember, washable filters have different layers that must be separated and cleaned.
However, you are advised against using a high-pressure washer, as it could damage the filter. The washable filters are thicker than normal, which might strain your HVAC unit due to reduced airflow.
Carbon Filters
Carbon filters use charcoal or carbon to filter air. Remember, carbon is quite efficient in trapping gases, and the molecules stick to the carbon through adsorption. The main con of these filters is you will hardly know when to replace them.
Carbon filters are ideal for filtering out certain pollutants. These filters are suitable for eliminating certain pollutants but are less effective than others. These filters eliminate cigarette smoke and fumes from car exhausts.
However, they are not ideal for eliminating pet dander or dust.
Final Thoughts
Furnace filters are important yet highly ignored components of your HVAC unit. These items play a key role in indoor air quality, and the above article has discussed the best filter types in 2023.
Kindly reach out for more information on the same.
