A filter is an essential item to keep your HVAC system running properly, whether you’re running your AC or your furnace. As air moves in and out of your heating system, the furnace filter traps all of the dust and other microparticles carried in the air. This helps to remove them from your home environment and to keep them from blocking essential components of your HVAC system. As a result, you’ll need to change your filter periodically as it becomes dirtier.

You know what it does, but do you know which type of furnace filter is right for your system? Here are some of the different options and the pros and cons of choosing each one.

Fiberglass filters

Disposable fiberglass filters are commonly used in homes because they are cheap. This also means they are not the most efficient at trapping small particles. They’ll protect furnace components from damaging dust but won’t be the best for your indoor air quality. If your indoor air quality isn’t a problem, then these will probably be sufficient, especially if you change them on a regular basis to prevent them from becoming clogged. But anyone with allergies or households with pets might need a higher rated filter.

Pleated filters

Pleated filters are so-called due to their folded pattern, which makes them better able to block particles because they have a greater surface area. These filters can be made from different materials, such as fiberglass, paper, or polyester. Although they are more efficient at blocking spores and particles, they may slightly impede the flow of air through your HVAC system, forcing your furnace to work harder. Another benefit, however, is that they need changing less regularly than traditional fiberglass filters.

Electrostatic filters

If you have asthma or bad allergies, or if the air quality in your home is bad due to local air pollution, pets, or smokers, then electrostatic filters could be for you. These not only block microparticles from passing through them, but they also attract those particles with their electrostatic charge. As you’d expect from a higher quality product, this type of air filter is also more expensive than the other options listed here. However, they are washable, so you can reuse them rather than throwing them away once they get clogged.

While shopping for furnace filters, check the MERV rating of each product. This will tell you how efficient each filter type is at blocking the particles in the air. If you need furnace repair, maintenance, or installation around Winston Salem, Clemmons, Lewisville, and Pfafftown, then contact us for our expert assistance and services.