Air conditioning filters play an important role in the effective running of the system. This includes protecting the internal components, improving the indoor air quality and maintaining the energy efficiency.
Various air conditioning filters exist to cater to the different systems available. However, the filter can also be selected based on the specific properties it provides.
As air conditioning specialists, the Lee Jackson Air Conditioning team are here to explain more about the types of filters that can be installed in an air conditioning unit.
Fibreglass Filters
Fibreglass air conditioning filters are some of the cheapest filter types available. They are ideal for catching large debris such as lint and dust.
When a fibreglass filter is newly installed, it will provide good airflow. However, the filter requires changing very regularly (i.e. every 30 days), otherwise it will become clogged with debris.
Pleated Filters
Pleated filters are also affordable, although slightly more expensive than fibreglass filters overall. They are most commonly installed in homes and small offices.
This filter type benefits from having a wide surface area, allowing the surface of the filter to catch more debris. The type of debris will depend on the MERV rating, but can include filtering out the likes of pollen, pet dander and even some viruses. Therefore, a pleated filter can offer a better choice for those with allergies compared with a fibreglass filter when in search of a budget-friendly option.
You can expect a pleated filter to last for around 90 days before it requires replacement, though this timeframe can also vary depending on the type of year. Often, pleated filters are also recyclable.
Electrostatic Filters
Not all airborne debris consists of large particles, as many types of debris are much smaller. Electrostatic filters are much better equipped to capture fine dust and smoke, making them a great choice for commercial air conditioning systems.
How electrostatic filters work is that they are made of multiple layers of self-charging synthetic fibres. As air flows through, the friction between layers generates a static charge, which works to attract and trap particles such as dust, pollen, pet dander and smoke.
Electrostatic air conditioning filters may use a metal mesh frame or a washable plastic frame. The filter requires regular cleaning to remain effective. However, it is generally considered a high-end filtration system overall.
HEPA Filters
Out of all the different types of air conditioning filters available, people are likely to be most familiar with HEPA filters, since HEPA filters also exist in air purifiers and similar technology.
Why HEPA filters are preferred is that they remove around 99.97% of particles, even down to very fine particles. This makes HEPA filters excellent against allergens, fine dust and bacteria that may be in the air.
The air conditioning unit must be specifically designed so that it is compatible with a HEPA filter, and HEPA filters in general have a higher price point.
However, where a premium solution is required, including in medical or high-cleanliness environments, a HEPA filter is a top choice.
Need Help With All Things Air Conditioner Filters? Contact Our Experts Today
Lee Jackson Air Conditioning is based in Nottinghamshire, and our team installs and maintains air conditioning units across the East Midlands area of the UK.
If you have an existing air conditioning unit, we can provide a filter change as part of our air conditioning maintenance services.
Or, if you have any questions about getting air conditioning installed, please send us a message or give us a call on 0800 949 9070.
