Types of Air Filters

The air filter is perhaps one of the most unsung heroes in any heating and air conditioning system. The idea behind this component is simple: as air is circulated throughout your home, it passes through the fibrous membranes of a filter. Any dust particles and pollutants get trapped in the filter, removing them from your environment. This results in better indoor air quality overall for you and your family.

Because of how they function, air filters are regularly clogged by particulate matter. Over time, this reduces  their effectiveness and can even hinder airflow inside your system. At this point, it’s important to replace or clean your air filter. Here our experts at McMaster discuss a few of the most common types of filters and how to take care of them.

Disposable Filters

Most units, like a few models of Carrier HVAC equipment, use disposable filters. These filters need to be replaced at least once every 90 days. In some areas where there’s a lot of dust and pollutants in the air, this frequency should be increased to once every 30 days. Changing the filter completely offers plenty of advantages. Every replacement is an assurance that you have a brand-new, fresh filter to service your home. Unfortunately, discarded filters often end up in landfills, which may not be the most sustainable solution for keeping your air clean.

Reusable Filters

The alternative, of course, is reusable filters. This type of filter can be cleaned regularly, reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. However, the performance of these filters diminishes after every subsequent washing, which could result in a drop in indoor air quality.

Electrostatic Filters

The most efficient HVAC filter uses electrostatics to trap mechanical pollutants found in the air. While electrostatic filters can be expensive initially, they require less cleaning and are generally more effective at filtering the air inside your home.

Our professionals at McMaster can help you find a filter that’s 100% right for your home. Give us a call at (949) 481-7995 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation and request a free estimate on a new HVAC installation today. We serve homeowners in Lake Forest, Irvine, and other nearby areas in CA.

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