AC Filter

Why are Air Conditioner Filters Important?

Air conditioner filters are an important part of your air conditioner system because they prevent dust and dirt from being blown throughout your home when the ac is on. They also prevent dust and dirt from getting into the mechanical parts of your air conditioner and can extend the life of those parts. Anyone with allergy sufferers, small children, or elderly relatives living in their home should be especially careful about keeping the AC filter clean.

Different Types of AC Filters

There are two kinds of air conditioner filters: disposable filters that you replace each month or reusable permanent filters that just need to be cleaned each month.

Here are 7 of the most common AC filters:

1. Permanent Filters: Permanent filters last longer and just need to be cleaned or washed regularly. Eventually, permanent filters still need to be replaced when they get worn down. These filters are not recommended for high efficiency systems.
2. Disposable Filters: Most filters fall under the disposable filter category. If you have a disposable filter, it is important to replace it at least once a month. If you have pets, a lot of dust, or during the summer months, disposable filters might need to be replaced more often.
3. Standard Panel Filters: These cost less than a dollar at home improvement stores and need to be replaced monthly. Standard air filters are made with spun fiberglass and have cardboard frames. They do not provide a high level of protection since they just catch and filter larger contaminants.
4. Pleated Filters: These are a little more expensive than standard panel filters, but they work better to capture more dust and dirt and only need to be replaced every 3 or 4 months.
5. Electrostatic Filters: This type of filters can cost anywhere from $30 to $100 and they have a built-in electrostatic charge that attracts contaminants.
6. Electronic: This type of filter is similar to an electrostatic filter, but it also uses a fan to trap up to 95% of particles making it more effective than electrostatic filters.
7. HEPA Filters: HEPA, or High Efficiency Particulate Arresting, filters are very efficient and trap 99.97% of dust, dirt, even smoke, and hair.