Filters are an essential yet often a neglected component of an air conditioning system. They act as a lightweight barrier to trap dust, particles, and allergens, and ensure the inflow of safe air inside your premises. Undoubtedly, filters are very much needed to help your AC system perform at its best throughout every season. For the best performance, one must make sure to install the right type of air conditioning filters for the home.
We have tried & tested different types of filters and bring you the best options for residential air conditioning systems. We use the Merv filter ratings to assist in our categories. It is a system used to evaluate the efficiency of an air filter based on how effective it is at catching particles of varying sizes. Basically, the higher the MERV rating, the higher the air filtration capabilities of a particular filter. The MERV filter rating is the domestic and international industry-standard rating system established by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers.
Fiberglass Air Filters
Fiberglass is the most subtle choice for air conditioning systems – disposable, affordable and works flawlessly with most AC brands. They are engineered for sturdy performance and comparatively easy to install. Though fiberglass air filters do the best job of filtering the air and keeping large dust or debris out of your ac system, they often can’t trap particles causing asthma, allergies, or respiratory particles. That’s why a fiberglass air filter has a MERV 4 rating.
Pleated filters
Pleated Air Filters are widely chosen for their longevity and greater particulate capturing and reliability. This results in fewer IAQ complaints. One of the key highlights of pleated filters is that they do not promote bacterial growth. Though they can be slightly more expensive than fiberglass, pleated filters are more effective with filtering dust, pollen, and spores. MERV ratings for Pleated Air Filters typically rank between 5 and 8.
HEPA Filters
HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) works by pushing air through a mesh and traps harmful particles instantly. It is one of the best filters available for allergies. HEPA filters can effectively screen contaminants up to 99.97% (even particles with a size of 0.3 microns) and have a MERV rating of 13 to 16. This kind of filter is beneficial for people who have asthma or respiratory problems. For this reason, even the US Department of Energy widely recommends them.
UV Filters
UV filters are mounted inside the HVAC system. They are highly recommended in humid areas, i.e., where molds and airborne organisms can severely affect a person’s health and well-being. UV air filters utilize ultraviolet light to kill mold and mildew, as well as eradicate VOCs, airborne pathogens, flu, germs, bacteria, viruses, and other harmful airborne contaminants. For this reason, the MERV rank for the UV filter is 11.
What Type of Air Conditioning Filter Should I Use?
The choice of AC filter depends entirely on your living condition. Bear in mind that not all furnace filters work the same way. They all have different filtration processes, some are reusable, and others are not. Therefore, make sure you go through your requirements first before finalizing any decision.
Filters with high MERV ratings are mostly recommended for individuals with allergies or respiratory issues and also for families with newborn babies. But be careful of going too far with high MERV filters. They can be expensive too. It is best to balance what filter rating you’re looking for and then decide on your budget.