Changing the furnace filter is an HVAC maintenance task that you can do yourself. But when you go to the store to get replacement furnace filters, you have to decide how much air filtration your Bath, Pennsylvania, home needs.
Fiberglass Filters
The cheapest and least-effective furnace filters are fiberglass. While they’re better than no filter at all or an old dirty filter, fiberglass filters don’t offer much in the way of air filtration. They’re made of spun fiberglass that’s about an inch thick, really inexpensive, and always disposable.
Pleated Filters
Your next option in disposable filters is the pleated variety. They’re a little more expensive than fiberglass, but that’s because they work better. They’re usually made of cotton or polyester and are pretty good about trapping particles like mold spores and dust mites. You have to change them relatively frequently (every month or two) because when they get dirty, they make it harder for your HVAC system to push air through them.
Electrostatic Filters
When you go for electrostatic furnace filters, you can invest in disposable ones you need to change as often as the pleated variety or you can get permanent filters. Both options are self-charging to attract and trap particulates. They filter better than pleated filters but are more expensive. The permanent type are washable, but they’re less effective and many homeowners find taking care of them to be inconvenient.
High-Efficiency Filters
High-efficiency filters, sometimes called HEPA filters, are the best when it comes to trapping particulates. They’re a prime resource for improving indoor air quality if you suffer from asthma or severe allergies. Be warned: using HEPA filters in a furnace or an HVAC system that isn’t rated for them can damage your entire system. HEPA filters are most often used in commercial settings, such as hospitals where large commercial HVAC systems are able to accommodate their tight filtering capabilities.
If you have questions about your furnace filters or need HVAC maintenance of any kind, Sullivan Oil & Propane is here for you. Call us today at (610) 810-3992.
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