Hello World! Welcome Friends! Like most things in life, not all air filters are created equally. Selecting the perfect air filter for your house depends on your needs and other factors such as the health level of the occupants, outdoor pollutants, pet status, and much more. Cost may also be a significant factor for you.
Four Types of Air Filters
Here are four types of air filters and their main characteristics to narrow down the perfect fit.
Electrostatic Filters
All filters have a MERV rating, which stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value. Electrostatic filters incorporate static that works like a magnet to capture airborne particles and dust using paper and cotton fibers. The magnetic reaction is strong enough to keep these particles from floating around through your house, making it an excellent choice for anyone with allergies.
The MERV rating measures how well the filter can capture particles as small as 0.3 micrometers. They can filter elements like ash and dust from your indoor air at this level. The higher the MERV number, the more filtered your indoor air is.
These air filters are among the most cost-effective options available on the market and can significantly improve the air quality in your home.
MERV 8 filters, one of the more common filter sizes, are 90% efficient in filtering particles from 3 to 10 micrometers. They efficiently filter pollen, dust, dust mites, and pet dander.
HEPA Filters
High-Efficiency Particulate Air filters can eliminate 99.97 percent of airborne pollutants and allergens, including dust and mold spores as small as 0.3 microns. HEPA filters have a MERV rating of 16, making them one of the strongest protectors of your indoor air quality. These air filters can remove the tiniest airborne particles, like bacteria, pet dander, pollen, or smoke.
These air filters can be great for anyone with respiratory issues or allergies. However, they need to be replaced more often since they capture a lot of particulates. This is why people like to find Jade 1.0 compatible and affordable replacement filters that last longer. Also, HEPA filters require more energy to push air through them, which can increase your energy bills.
UV Filters
UV filters incorporate short-wave UV light to eliminate viruses and bacteria. As air cycles through your HVAC, ultraviolet lamps inside disinfect it through germicidal radiation. This is a great air filter for getting rid of harmful microscopic particles, including mildew and mold spores.
Bear in mind that UV filters can change oxygen into ozone, impacting your health. Low ozone doses can lead to chest pain and coughing, while higher doses can worsen asthma and other respiratory diseases. Plus, while they are excellent at filtering viruses and bacteria, they may not be as effective against elements like dust, tobacco smoke, gases, and fumes. The filters typically need to be replaced yearly and can be costly to install.
Washable Filters
If you’re looking for an environmental-friendly option, washable filters are a great way to save money and the world around you. The primary cost is high, but it can be an investment that will serve you for years to come. After the initial high price, you merely wash and reuse your filter repeatedly instead of buying a new one every few months.
This is an excellent option for saving money, but the filters must be handled with care and well maintained to work. For example, you must ensure the air filter is completely dry before reinstalling it. Otherwise, mold and mildew can grow and pollute the air you breathe.
Do You Have Allergies?
If you find yourself sneezing and sniffling throughout the year, you might have allergies or asthma. Filtering the air in your home could be a considerable investment in your health and well-being.
Think about all the time you spend in your home, primarily if you work remotely. You deserve to live in a clean-air environment, especially with pets, in a highly industrialized area or an urban metropolis.
The EPA and the American Lung Association recommend air filters for anyone who has asthma, respiratory diseases, and allergies. A clean and well-ventilated home can make all the difference in your quality of life.
What Kind of Air Filter Does My House Need?
There are many different air filters, and each type can trap certain particles. The best way to determine what you need is by asking yourself what particles you need to be removed from the air in your home? How clean do you need the air to be? How often will you need to change your air filter, and how much do the air filters cost?
The answers to these questions might help you determine what air filter is best for you. If you would like to learn more about MERV 8 filters, click here.
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