According to studies conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air can be 100 times more polluted than outside air. You can improve your air quality by equipping your system with air filters and changing them in accordance with the manufacturer's guidance. Dirty or blocked filters diminish airflow, which cause your air conditioning system to work harder. The right filter helps your system operate more efficiently, ensures optimal filtration and reduces utility bills. There are several types of air conditioner filters on the market. Consult your owner's manual for the correct size and type of filter required for your system. After you determine the correct size air conditioner filter, the next step is to choose the type that you want to use.
4 Types of Air Conditioning Filters
- Fiberglass A/C Filters– The most popular and least expensive option is a conventional disposable fiberglass filter. This accessory has an adhesive coating, which collects large dust and dirt particles, but small particulates can slip through the loosely woven material. The fiberglass can also pose a health hazard if inhaled. These filters usually last about one month and do not require cleaning. When the filter becomes dirty, simply discard it in the trash and install another filter.
- Pleated Air Conditioning Filters – The next higher grade air conditioner filter has pleats. The filter has tightly woven fabric, which provides with an extra layer of protection. It can remove approximately 50 percent of airborne particles. The pleated fabric provides a broader surface for collecting particulates than its conventional fiberglass counterpart. Although they are slightly more expensive, some brands can last up to 3 months.
- Electrostatic Filters – These filters use static electricity to collect dust, allergens and other airborne contaminants. They can also remove odors associated with pets and smoking as well as microscopic mold spores due to their ability to filter minute particles from the air. These filters are available in various thicknesses and levels of filtration. Electrostatic filters can cleanse the air up to six months before they require cleaning. When used properly, they may also reduce the level of bacterial growth within the home.
- HEPA Filters – High Efficiency Particulate Arrestance, or HEPA, filters can remove 99.97 percent of particles circulating in the air that are larger than 0.3 microns. These filters trap allergens, such as dirt, dust mites, pet dander, pollen, mold and smoke. Due to their expense, these filters are generally recommended for homes where residents have respiratory ailments, such as asthma and allergies. Some Tampa FL HVAC systems can accommodate carbon filters, which absorb pet, smoke and cooking odors. Electronic filters create a static charge, which trap pathogens like mold, bacteria and viruses as well as smoke, pollen and other particulates on negatively charged plates.
Regardless of the filter that you choose, it must be the correct size, properly installed and changed or cleaned regularly to provide your family maximum protection. If you are uncertain of the type of filter to use in your Tampa FL HVAC system, contact Senica Air Conditioning, Inc.. Our highly trained staff can help you select the best filter for your system and lifestyle.