When most people think of air conditioners, they generally associated them with cooling the air inside their homes and not much more. However, air conditioners contain filters which can help to clean the air by reducing dust and contaminants. Before considering purchasing a new air conditioner, it’s a good idea to understand the basics of the different types of filters included in A/C units so you can make the best buying choice for your home.
DISPOSABLE AIR CONDITIONER FILTERS
Disposable A/C filters are generally constructed of a cardboard frame that is fitted with fiberglass or pleated polyester material. The fiberglass versions of disposable A/C filters typically provide the lowest filtering capacities of all types available.
WASHABLE AIR CONDITIONER FILTERS
Washable A/C filters can be removed, cleaned, and replaced into your unit as directed by the filter’s manufacturer. Because they do not need frequent replacement, they are more expensive to purchase than disposable filters but can save money long-term.
One drawback of washable filters that should be noted is that you need to plan for their cleaning in advance to make sure you give them enough time to dry before reusing. If the filter is re-installed while still damp, fungi can form in the filter and then be distributed throughout your home when the A/C is in use.
ELECTROSTATIC AIR CONDITIONER FILTERS
Electrostatic A/C filters add some extra air filtering capacities compared to disposable and basic washable filters. These filters use an electrostatic charge to draw more particles out of the air that passes through a unit and traps them so they don’t disperse throughout your home. Some of these filters are washable as well, so read the manufacturers specifications to understand how to maintain an electrostatic filter properly.
HEPA AIR CONDITIONER FILTERS
HEPA stands for “high-efficiency particle air” and filters with this designation are rated by the US Office of Environment, Health, Safety, and Security. To achieve this rating, HEPA filters must capture 99.97% of airborne contaminants and particles. Because of the high level of filtration achieved by these filters, they are a great option to consider for people with allergies or other air-related respiratory problems.
UV AIR CONDITIONER FILTERS
These types of air conditioner filters use ultraviolet light to capture and kill bacteria, molds, viruses, and yeasts in the air that passes through them. To be the most effective, however, these filters should work in conjunction with other types of filters because they do not trap most allergens, dusts, solids, chemical fumes, gases, or cigarette smoke in the air.
AIR CONDITIONING SERVICES IN DELAWARE AND MARYLAND
Considering purchasing a new air conditioner unit or improving the air filtration in your Delaware or Eastern Maryland home? Contact First Class HVAC today. We’re professional, fully licensed HVAC specialists that have been providing quality service in the area for over 40 years.