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What Do You Need to Know About Electrostatic Air Filters?

  • By Admin
  • 07 Apr, 2020
Electrostatic Air Filter Installation — Knoxville, TN — A-1 Finchum Heating & Cooling

Is an electrostatic filter right for your home? If your HVAC unit needs a new filtration system, or you're about to install a replacement heater or air conditioner, take a look at what you need to know about these reusable filters.

What Is an Electrostatic Air Filter?

Like any filter, the electrostatic type removes fine particles and debris from the air. This prevents your heater or air conditioner from recirculating dust, pollen, pet fur, pet dander, microorganisms, and other minuscule debris around your home. The filter also stops dust and debris before it reaches your HVAC unit. This can reduce the risk of wear and tear-related damage and increase efficiency.

Unlike paper or fiberglass disposable filters, electrostatic models are reusable. Instead of a complete change every month (or sooner), you'll need to clean the electrostatic filter. Along with reusability, electrostatic filters are:

  • Rectangular in shape. These filters have the same or similar shape to other options (such as fiberglass).
  • Thin. The specific thickness of the filter varies by ventilation system. Most electrostatic models are between half-an-inch and one-inch in thickness.
  • Available in different dimensions. Like thickness, the specific dimensions of these filters vary by HVAC system.
  • Constructed with aluminum frames. Instead of the cardboard frame disposable filters have, electrostatic reusable filters have permanent aluminum frames.
  • Made from specialized materials. Instead of paper or fiberglass, these filters use polyurethane and polypropylene blends to create static charges. The charged layers (both positive and negative) trap and stop particles from moving through the HVAC system.

Now that you know what an electrostatic filter is, it's time to learn more about whether this option is the right choice for your home and your heater or air conditioner.

What Are the Benefits of an Electrostatic Filter?

Why should you consider an electrostatic filter? When used under the right circumstances, this option comes with benefits galore. The primary benefits homeowners can expect to find with this type of filter include:

  • The cost. Even though you may pay more upfront for an electrostatic filter (in comparison to disposable filters), you'll pay less over the course of the model's lifespan. Instead of a one and done model, you'll clean and reuse the electrostatic filter over and over again.
  • The filtration. Electrostatic filters have higher MERV ratings. The minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) rating reflects the filter's ability to capture particles. Higher MERV values indicates the ability to stop and filter out smaller particles.
  • The energy efficiency. The better filtration the filter provides, the more efficiently your HVAC system can run. An electrostatic filter allows your heater and air conditioner to work efficiently, reducing energy usage and lowering utility bills.

Along with these benefits, the reusable filter can save you time and energy. You won't need to drive to the home improvement store or waste time online ordering a new filter monthly. Instead, you can remove the filter and easily clean it as needed.

Should You Ever Choose Another Filter?

Even though electrostatic filters come with plenty of benefits, this HVAC option isn't the only to choose from. Before you decide whether electrostatic is right for you, consider:

  • Maintenance issues. Are you comfortable cleaning your filter periodically? If you'd rather remove and replace it, a disposable model is a better option.
  • The MERV rating. Even though most electrostatic filters have high MERV ratings, a HEPA filter can remove more particles from the air.
  • Airflow. The electrostatic filter may restrict some of the airflow to and from your furnace or air conditioner — especially if you don't clean the filter regularly.

If you're still not sure whether an electrostatic or disposable filter is right for your HVAC system, talk to a professional. A heating and air conditioning contractor can assess your heater and air conditioner and recommend the best option.

Do you need heating, cooling, or air filtration assistance? Contact A-1 Finchum Heating & Cooling for more information.

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