суббота, 19 марта 2011 г.

AC Filters in Our Life


AC filters are becoming more and more necessary in our days, because air conditioners are present in almost every house in southern states.

AC filters, or as they say, furnace filters, are used to remove allergens and unwanted particles from the home and are therefore essential to any home's heating and air conditioning system. When purchasing a replacement air filter, it is important to consider efficiency. An air filter that is less efficient impacts the performance and life of a heating and air conditioning system. It will also need to be changed more often, which could end up costing the consumer more money in the long run. A more efficient air filter will ensure that your system performs well and lasts longer.

The efficiency of AC filters are determined by their MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating. This number indicates how efficient a filter will be at removing unwated particles from the air and can range anywhere from 1 to 16. The higher the rating, the more efficient the filter. 

Timely air filter replacement is very important. If AC filters are left dirty for long periods of time, it can result in higher maintenance costs and a shorter life span for your air conditioning unit. Filter installation is relatively simple. When changing a filter, make sure it is placed in the proper direction, which will be indicated by an arrow on the side or face of the filter. This will ensure proper air flow in the same direction as the arrow. The AC filter should also fit tightly and be the correct size. If it is not perfectly sealed, unfiltered air may enter and damage your air conditioning system.

When choosing a filter, make sure you know the appropriate size and type for your HVAC system. Unconventional filters may have a higher efficiency rating, but they may not be compatible with your unit. There are several basic types of replacement air filters with various features to consider, including air filter media, efficiency and the types of particles removed.

Standard fiberglass furnace filters

These are the most common filters found in residential and commercial systems. They are disposable and they have an adhesive coating that traps dust and particles, and therefore should not be cleaned. Most fiberglass spun filters are only a MERV 1 or MERV 2 and though they cost less they are also less effective at removing unwanted particles from the air. These air filters need to be changed every month.

Disposable pleated fiberglass air filters

Pleated filters are manufactured by folding the filter media back and forth. With a larger surface area than that of standard fiberglass filters, pleated air filters are slightly more effective at removing harmful particles.  They are also slightly more expensive and need to be replaced every three months.

Electrostatically-charged furnace filters

These AC filters have an electrostatic charge, either built in to the filter itself, or created from the air moving through it. They are effective at removing 90 percent of particles, including allergens like pollen, mold spores, dust mites and pet dander, thus reducing allergies commonly related to indoor air quality.  An electrostatic air filter should also be replaced every three months.

Carbon air filters

Carbon filters contain carbon that helps to remove unwanted odors from pets, cigarette smoke, or other sources.

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