Common Types of Air Filters for Your Furnace

As you transition into the colder months, your dependence on our home furnaces significantly increases. But how often do you pay attention to the unsung heroes of our heating systems, the air filters? These key components not only filter out debris and dust, enhancing indoor air quality but also influence the efficiency of your furnace.

Understanding the different types of air filters available and their respective benefits could significantly impact your health, comfort, and energy bills. Let's delve into some of the most common types of air filters for your furnace to help you optimize your home heating systems.

Pleated Filters

Pleated filters are a common air filter featuring pleats that give a larger surface area for screening. These filters are usually crafted from tightly woven cotton or polyester to capture microscopic particles like viruses and germs. Because of this, they are more effective than filters made of fiberglass or synthetic materials.

The accordion-like look of these filters results from the material's folds. Their enhanced effectiveness against airborne particles is another reason they are a popular choice for home HVAC systems.

The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) grade of pleated filters varies with their degree of weaving density. The greater the MERV rating, the better the filter captures airborne contaminants. But the filter must work harder with higher ratings, so you must change it more often. Like other disposable filters, these filters must be changed approximately once every three months.

Fiberglass or Synthetic Filters

Filters constructed from fiberglass consist of multiple layers of the material adhered to a metal framework. They are your best bet if you are looking for a cheap air filter. While they may not be the best option, they can offer some protection by capturing a considerable number of particulates between three and ten microns in size and the majority of particulates 50 microns or larger.

One of the primary advantages of fiberglass filters is that they may protect your HVAC system's components from dust and grime buildup. However, their MERV rating is insufficient to exclude particles with a finer particle size. Because of this, airborne allergens and pollutants, even at smaller sizes, may still be able to circulate and impact your air quality in the home.

Also, fiberglass filters do not last as long compared to other solutions and are not extremely sturdy. Replacing them more frequently can be annoying and expensive, so this is something to keep in mind.

On top of that, not everyone can use fiberglass filters. It is possible that these filters will not do enough to enhance the air quality within your home for those who suffer from allergies or respiratory sensitivities. In this situation, getting an air filter with a higher MERV value would be wise.

HEPA Filters

One efficient method of enhancing indoor air quality is to install a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. Highly effective at removing airborne contaminants, these filters can catch as much as 99% of particulates 0.3 microns or bigger.

Their interwoven glass fibers are so closely woven that they may effectively sieve, impact, intercept, or diffuse particles. Families coping with respiratory illnesses, allergies, or asthma will find them particularly helpful because of this.

Nevertheless, their exceptional filtration capabilities may not be without a cost. Due to their high filtration nature, they offer a substantial decrease in the system's airflow might lead to increased energy consumption.

Additionally, they can be more costly than other filter alternatives due to their intricate design and high level of filtering. Consequently, before installing HEPA filters, it is crucial to consider the home's budget and characteristics.

Ready to improve the air quality in your home while also boosting your furnace's efficiency? Reach out to our team of experts today at Haining Home Services for personalized advice and services for your furnace and other heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.