HVAC (Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) air filters are crucial HVAC filters designed to remove unwanted particles from the air, thus improving air quality in various settings. These filters effectively remove a great range of tiny particles, including dust, pollens, odours, gases, debris, and pet dander, dependent on the residing environment. The filter comprises a metallic or plastic frame and is often covered by fibrous materials. They provide cleaner air for breathing in your home’s cooling or heating systems by trapping the mentioned particles and preventing them from recirculating across your home. The filters come in bulk or box packages with varied dimensions and media materials for robust air filtration tasks.
How Does an HVAC Air Filter Work?
An HVAC air filter is made from a gauze-like material that allows for cleaner air while the bulk particles are trapped. The clogged particles are then collected when the filters are required to be replaced or washed. It is essential to wash/replace the filter consistently or adequately to avoid overheating the ventilation systems’ elements and ensure proper functionality.
Important Things to Consider for Choosing HVAC Air Filters:
Buying a specific filter type depends on the HVAC systems where the filters are used; however, it is crucial to consider some parameters before choosing the right and best air filter, such as:
- Filter Size
- Efficiency, and
- Resistance to Airflow
- Cost.
HVAC Air Filter Types:
The difference in the filter types is based on their filter materials. They are available in varied types suitable for specific applications and environments. For instance, some filters are designed to stop dust and debris from passing through them, while others remove odours by requiring a charcoal element within the filter. Some of the residential HVAC filters include:
- HEPA Filters – The high-efficiency particulate air filters are the most effective filters that remove respiratory or allergy-causing particles by screening up to 99.97% of pollens, dust, pet dander, bacteria, virus, mold, and other particles out of the air.
- Pleated Air Filters – These are easily installed into HVAC systems with extended service life and are manufactured from cotton/polyester folds.
- Fiberglass Air Filters – These are disposable and economical filters with reduced strain on HVAC systems.
- UV Filters – Ultraviolet filters kill various filter-passing pathogens and microorganisms within HVAC systems using ultraviolet light.
- Washable Filters – As the name indicates, these filters are washable or vacuumed once built up with particles. They are available in pleated or flat-panel options and are incredibly eco-friendly.
Typical Applications of HVAC Air Filters:
Air filters are used within HVAC air handlers with robust filtering applications in various settings where air quality is indispensable. They are ideal for:
- Building Ventilation Systems
- Engines
- Aircrafts
- Space Shuttles
- Satellites.
