Indoor air quality has a significant effect on the physical health of a home’s occupants. HVAC filters can help improve your IAQ if you have the right one and they are installed and used correctly. There are two kinds you can use, namely, disposable and reusable filters. Disposable HVAC filters need to be replaced monthly or quarterly, depending on several factors. As its name suggests, a washable HVAC air filter can be cleaned and reused several times.
Read on to find out everything you need to know about washable HVAC filters.
Indoor air pollution can cause problems as much as outdoor pollution. We might think that the air inside our homes is always clean and pristine. However, it could be what is causing you and your family to get sick without you knowing. The air could be mixed with dirt, pollen, mold spores, and other contaminants. HVAC systems are equipped with an air filtration system to trap these particles, as a result, they prevent them from circulating throughout your home. High-quality HVAC filters can block pollutants more effectively than cheaper ones. Therefore, you can be sure that you are protected well from illnesses and your system is highly efficient.
Electrostatic filters work by attracting the air contaminants through their opposite charges. More particles are captured as air passes through the filters. The filters can get thick with pollutants as time passes, and this can affect their performance. When this happens, replace the disposable filter or clean it if it is washable. Otherwise, the air that flows through these dirty filters can result in poor indoor air quality.
Some of the pros of having washable filters include:
If you want to be eco-friendlier, go for reusable filters as they can last for five years or more. This means that one washable filter is equal to around 20 to 60 filters, which lasts you about one to three months each. Therefore, washing and reusing the same filter is an environmentally conscious move you should consider.
Washable filters are a worthy investment. They might be more expensive at the onset, but they are guaranteed to save you money in the long run. You only need to purchase it once every 5 to 10 years instead of monthly.
When you have washable filters, you do not need to go out and buy a replacement every time you have a dirty filter. You need to remove, wash, and dry it, and it is good as new. The cleaning process also gets easier and faster the more you get used to the task.
Filters are available in various types, sizes, and ratings. This means you need to know the right one that will best fit your HVAC system. Otherwise, the filter might not work as effectively. Using electrostatic filters means you do not have to worry about this problem as this type of filter has a lifespan as long as your furnace or AC.
Listed below are a few of the cons of using washable filters:
If you are on a tight budget, you might opt to purchase disposable filters instead because the cost per filter is cheaper than washable units. Having electrostatic filters provides long-term savings, but it might not be apparent immediately.
The MERV rating measures how effective a filter is in catching air particulates. The higher the rating, the better its performance. Unfortunately, the highest MERV rating that washable filters have is MERV 4. Disposable ones can reach up to MERV 12 rating.
Since you need to use water to wash reusable filters, you need to dry them properly. If you get impatient and install them without properly drying them, mold can grow. As a result, you will have poor indoor air quality.
Electrostatic filters are a good defense against dust, pollen, and carpet fibers. However, they are not as effective in attracting smaller particles like bacteria and mold spores. These particles can be detrimental to you and your family’s health.
The filter you choose for your HVAC system should be maintained regularly and accurately. This is an easier task when you have disposable filters, as all you need to do is throw the clogged filters away and install a new one. You have to be more careful when you utilize washable filters so that you can use them longer. Place it under running water to remove dirt and other residues. Use a sprayer if possible, as this is a more effective way to clean it. Make sure you let the filter air dry thoroughly to prevent mold from growing in it.
There are other filters aside from the ones discussed earlier. For instance, you might want to consider using an electronic air filter or a high-efficiency media filter if you think electrostatic units are not enough. They work differently, but both are considered to be premium filters. When you use these high-performing filters, you lower the risks of having poor IAQ, such as asthma, allergies, and other respiratory illnesses. These units also have reasonable rates and a long lifespan.
There are a lot of filters a homeowner can choose from. The most suitable one for your HVAC system depends on various things, including your budget, air quality, unit longevity, and ease of use. Contact your local, trusted HVAC technician to help you find the best air filter for your home and system.
Tower Energy is the HVAC company to call when you need superior HVAC services in Hartford County, Connecticut. We have professionally certified and highly trained technicians for all your heating and cooling maintenance, repair, installation, and replacement needs. All our experienced, knowledgeable, and friendly technicians can provide accurate services on any HVAC system.
Our company guarantees to have highly competitive heating and cooling service rates. Our tune-ups can enhance your home’s comfort, indoor air quality, energy efficiency, and more. We can also recommend the most suitable repair and replacement solutions that are within your budget. Rest assured, a guarantee backs all our work. Schedule your next service appointment with Tower Energy for a free, in-home estimate.
Contact us now or call us at (860) 677-7347 to find out more.
