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The most important step in filter improvement is to make sure that all the air that goes through the electric air handler or gas furnace is filtered. If your HVAC system is pulling air through cracks in the duct system or return air chase, it pulls the contaminates along with it. Have your service technician check to verify that all the return air to a system is pulled through the filter system. This is a good time for your service technician to verify that the filter system is sized large enough for proper operation of the system. Filters come in different efficiencies that are measured in the percentage of arrestance of particles. Simply stated, what amount and size of particles do they stop? The higher the percentage, the smaller the particle the filter will stop. The other factor that must be considered is the resistance to air flow, or will this super filter let enough air through to allow my system to function properly? Fiberglass - these are the most inexpensive filters that you can buy. Most people refer to them as the filter you can see through. They stop 15 % of the largest particles in the air. Replace monthly. Pleated Paper - these filters look like a paper version of drapery pleats and stop up to 45% of the particles in the air. This type filter is the easiest upgrade for the money spent. These filters come in the same size as a fiberglass filter and are available at most hardware/home improvement stores. This type of filter gives the greatest degree of improvement for the money spent. Replace every 1 to 3 months. Media Filter - these filters are up to 4 inches thick and come in limited sizes, though the size selection is increasing. Rated at 90 to 95 % efficiency, these filters are changed 2 to 3 times a year. Media filters require a special frame to be mounted in the wall or mounted directly to the furnace or air handler. There are some media filters that come with special adapters that allow them to be mounted in a standard filter frame that has 4 inches of clearance behind it. Electrostatic filters - As an upgrade to Fiberglass filters, these are made up of layers of synthetic material that generate an electrical charge to attract dust particles. Electrostatic filters come with guarantees from five years to life. There have been problems due to high restriction of airflow across the filter. This reduction of airflow can greatly reduce the system capacity and efficiency. A new generation of these filters is now coming to market that promises less restriction to airflow. Clean at intervals of between 1 to 4 weeks. Electronic Air Filters - this is the premiere filter system on the market today. An electrostatic grid is powered when the AC or heat comes on and attracts particles to it. The grid is cleaned as needed with a water hose or in the dishwasher. This is the most efficient filter system available. This type of filter normally fits the same space as a Fiberglass filter, but does require modification to the ductwork and wiring to be installed in your air conditioning system.
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Last modified: January 16, 2008 Webmaster- Steve DeViney |