There are many types of HVAC filtration media for homeowners in northwest Arkansas to consider. A pleated air filter is not only popular for use on most heating and air conditioning systems, but it’s also among the most flexible and efficient for most needs. A pleated air filter can help reduce indoor air pollution while making your HVAC system more efficient.
Most pleated air filters range from MERV 5 to 13 in efficiency, with most filters falling near the MERV 8 rating. MERV, or Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, rates filters based on what size particulates they can capture. Some filters feature electrostatic properties that help trap airborne particles more efficiently, while others use carbon or carbon fibers to absorb odor.
Pleated air filters are made from a variety of materials, including polyester and cotton. Some feature aluminum mesh backing to help the material better withstand the HVAC system’s air pressure. These filters are also available in a wide variety of common sizes and thickness, including a number of custom replacement sizes for a variety of unconventional systems.
Here are a few reasons why pleated air filters are so effective versus other types of air filters:
- The pleated surface traps more particles evenly and for longer periods of time without the risk of being clogged with dust.
- The face-loading design requires very thin material that allows less restriction and better airflow than most other filtration media.
- A pleated air filter doesn’t support bacterial, fungi or mold growth. This media also captures up to 97.8 percent of bacteria-carrying particulates, including dust, pollen and other allergens.
A pleated air filter with a high MERV rating is a cost-effective solution for the majority of HVAC filtration needs. With whatever air filter you choose, however, it’s important to inspect it regularly and change it when it gets dirty.
For more information on the benefits of pleated air filters, don’t hesitate to contact us at Paschal Heat, Air & Geothermal. For more than 40 years, we’ve provided northwest Arkansas with high-quality HVAC sales and services.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Northwest Arkansas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about pleated air filters and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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