There are various types of air conditioning filters for your home, and it can be difficult to determine which one is best for you. In this article, we will discuss the different types of filters and their benefits. We will also provide tips on how to choose the right filter for your needs.
The most common types of air conditioning filters are fiberglass, pleated paper and electronic filters
1. Fiberglass Air Conditioning Filters
Fiberglass is the least expensive type of filter to buy. These can be single or double layered or even triple-layered. If you have allergies, these are not the best choice for you since they need to be replaced regularly. Fiberglass filters will also reduce your heating and cooling efficiency because it reduces airflow which increases energy costs. On average, fiberglass filters should be changed every thirty days if you live in a dusty area or one that has regular pollen or mold spores. For areas that do not experience regular allergens, regular changing may not be necessary with just a cleaning being sufficient instead of replacing.
2. Pleated Paper Air Conditioning Filters
This type of filter is the most common air conditioning filter for homes. If you are looking for an inexpensive option that will reduce your energy costs, this is the best choice. This type of filter allows more airflow than single or double fiberglass filters allowing for less strain on your heating and cooling system. These filters should be changed every thirty to ninety days depending on how much you use your air conditioner and what allergens are in your area. Since these filters let more air through, they can accumulate pollen and mold spores which can irritate allergies. However, these allergens will not pass through to the rest of your home like they do with other types of filters that catch particles as small as one micron in size.
3. Electronic Air Conditioning Filters
This type of filter is the most expensive to buy initially but will last twice as long as a pleated paper filter. These filters are washable and reusable for up to two years before needing replacement. This type of filter should be changed according to your manufacturer’s recommendations which can vary from six months up to a year depending on how much you use your air conditioner and what types of allergens are present in your area. This type of filter can help control odors, remove pollen, dust mites, pet dander and other home pollutants while also reducing energy costs since it reduces airflow required by your unit.
How do I choose the right air conditioning filter for my home?
As you can see, there are many different types of air conditioning filters. The best way to determine which one is right for your home would be to take a look at your budget and what type of allergens are prevalent in your area. If you don’t want any extra allergens in your homes such as pet dander or pollen, an electronic filter will greatly reduce these pollutants before they enter your home. Because this type of filter reduces airflow, it will increase the strain on your heating and cooling system. For those whose main concern is price and can regularly replace their filters, pleated paper filters provide the best value because they last longer than fiberglass or electronic filters and do not reduce airflow as electronic filters do.
If you are someone who does not experience any type of allergies but wants to keep the air in your home clean, a pleated paper filter will do just that. These filters can also reduce energy costs because they allow more airflow than single or double fiberglass filters. However, it is important to remember that these filters cannot catch particles as small as one micron like electronic filters can and must be replaced regularly depending on how much you use your air conditioner. Some people prefer adding an additional carbon layer to their pleated paper filter which will reduce odors while also reducing some allergens that could become trapped in the media’s fibers. If you would like this option for more allergen reduction, check your local hardware store for options when purchasing your filters or ask your heating and cooling company what options are available.
How often should you change your air conditioning filter, and how can you tell when it’s time to replace it?
It is important to remember that changing your air conditioning filter is one of the easiest ways to reduce energy costs and keep your home comfortable throughout the year. If you don’t regularly change your filter, it can strain your heating and cooling system and decrease the airflow which will make it work harder to cool or heat your home. It can also cause less efficient running times, decreased dehumidification, and poor indoor air quality since it reduces airflow.
Are there any benefits to using a higher-quality air conditioning filter in your home, or is it better to stick with the cheaper option?
Quality is important when it comes to air conditioning filters since you want them to be able to effectively cool or heat your home. A higher-quality filter will not only run more efficiently but can also help reduce energy costs during the year. One of the main benefits of a high-quality filter is that it will last longer than a lower-quality one, reducing replacement costs and improving convenience for you. Buying a higher-quality air conditioning filter, in the beginning, may seem like an unnecessary cost, but over time, you will see how much money you save by spending a little extra initially for this equipment.
Still Confused and Need Help?
If you are still confused about which air conditioning filter is right for your home, we at Congressional HVAC and Electrical are always here to answer your questions. Our team of heating and cooling specialists is available to speak with you and determine the right air conditioning filter for your home.
Conclusion
The right filter for your home would be determined by your budget, the allergens prevalent in your area, and how often you need to replace it. If you are someone who does not experience any type of allergies but wants more clean air in their home, a pleated paper filter will do just that without reducing airflow as electronic filters do. However, if you want allergen reduction with an additional carbon layer on top of the media’s fibers then check out some options at local hardware stores or talk to a heating and cooling company about what is available. For those looking for quality over price, we recommend getting high-quality filters because they can last longer than less expensive ones and reduce energy costs during the year as well as replacement fees. The best thing to remember when it comes to purchasing a new air conditioning filter is to shop locally and purchase from a heating and cooling company so you can consult with them about which filter will be best for your needs.
