Did you know that the air indoors can be up to 2-5 times more polluted than the air outside? Pollutants like pet dander, mold, cigarette smoke, and dust mites can wreak havoc on our lungs, especially when we spend much of our time inside.
Fortunately, that’s where a good air filter comes in! The right air filter can help protect your household from the worst airborne contaminants without extra effort on your part.
Of course, if you’ve been wondering “Which AC filter should I get?” we’ve got you covered! Let’s take a quick look at the different types of AC filters to help you understand which option may be right for your home.
Fiberglass Filters
These are among the most common AC filters. Single-use only, most fiberglass filters are flat-paneled sheets of fiberglass, and many popular AC filter brands make them.
Though they cause less of a strain on your AC when drawing in air, they also have a low MERV rating, meaning that they are not very effective at reducing the contaminants in your air.
Pleated Filters
Unlike flat-paneled fiberglass filters, these filters increase their surface area with folds in the fabric. This allows them to trap more household pollutants.
Often made with cotton or polyester, they have a higher MERV rating than fiberglass filters and tend to be disposable. If you’re not sure when you’ll need a replacement, the experts at kandsac.com can help.
Reusable Filters
Reusable filters are a great option for homeowners hoping to save on the cost of replacement filters, or for anyone looking for a less wasteful and more eco-friendly option. As the name suggests, these filters are designed for reuse, meaning that you’ll simply pull them out, clean them, and replace them.
However, it’s worth noting that these filters often have low MERV ratings, and you’ll still have to replace them after a few years.
HEPA Filters
As the best AC filter for households with allergies and respiratory conditions, this type of AC filter can remove up to 99.97% of all airborne pollutants. In addition, most HEPA filters have among the highest MERV ratings. As a result, these pleated filters tend to be more costly.
Electrostatic Filters
These filters use static electricity to collect airborne particles, keeping them from circulating around your home. This makes them a good choice for households with allergies. Because they’re available as either single-use or reusable filters, homeowners have more options for improving their air quality.
UV Light Filters
If you’re more worried about microorganisms like mold, bacteria, and viruses in your home, UV light filters may help. These filters disinfect the air using UV radiation. They do, however, need a professional installation, and they’re not effective against issues like pet dander and foul odors.
Consider These Types of AC Filters
The common types of AC filters above are enough to protect the air for most households, whether you need a budget-friendly fiberglass filter or the thorough cleaning of a HEPA filter. Consider the needs of your household to understand which option is your best bet for cleaner air!
Want more tips and tricks to enhance your life at home? Be sure to take a look at our other household and real estate guides.
