What Are the Different Types of Air Filters?

With a variety of different air filters available for your air conditioning system, it can be difficult to know which one will work best for you. Selecting the right air filter will help your unit run efficiently and save on energy costs.

Every air filter has a Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value rating (also known as a MERV rating), which rates filters on a scale of one to 16. Filters with a low MERV rating remove a smaller amount of large particles from the air, while filters with a high MERV rating remove a larger amount of smaller air particles.

Before buying a new air filter, learn about the different advantages, disadvantages, and MERV ratings, to get the best air filter for your household.

Fiberglass Filters

Fiberglass filters are frequently used in homes but are not the most efficient choice. These filters are made from spun glass and are designed to trap larger particles. With a MERV rating from one to four, they are not efficient at filtering small particles and won’t be able to improve the quality of the air in your home. Although they are fairly inexpensive and come in a variety of sizes, these filters aren’t recommended for use if anyone in your household has respiratory problems, asthma, or allergies.

Pleated Filters

Pleated filters come in a variety of MERV ratings, ranging from from six to 14. Pleated air filters with a rating of 11 or higher can trap most dust and pollen in the air, making them ideal if anyone in your house has allergies. These filters last longer than fiberglass filters and only need to be changed every two to 12 months. The downside to these filters is that they are more expensive and make it more difficult for air to flow through, which makes your unit work harder.

Electrostatic Filters

Electrostatic air filters are washable and reusable, saving you money from replacing filters; however, they can initially cost more and need to be washed each month. They are available in a variety of sizes and MERV ratings and are typically constructed with a material that is mold and bacteria resistant.

Find the Right Air Filter for Your Home

If you’re not sure which air filter is right for your home, contact the professionals at Sea Coast Air Conditioning today. We’ll work with you to determine the most efficient solution for your unique needs.