Working as a Heating Professional Can Lead to Success

What Kind Of Air Conditioning Filter Should Be Used?

2 July 2020

Abbie Wade

AC unit filters are an important part of any contractor's job, as they help keep cooled and cycled air clean as it moves through an invariably dirty environment. However, there are different types of filters, and the best one for your service will depend on the AC unit itself and the preferences of the household. The four main types of air filters are disposable, washable, deep pleated, and custom air filters.

Disposable

Disposable air filters are one of the most common choices for any contractor and their clients, as they are low-maintenance and fairly inexpensive per filter. These filters come in a variety of filter qualities, such as different MERV ratings and even activated charcoal for clients wanting to reduce household smells. However, not everyone wants to buy a new filter every 6 months, and the costs can add up over time. Some may prefer a more economical and environmental option, such as washable air filters.

Washable

Washable air filters are a good choice for those wanting a long-term solution for their air filter needs. These filters work just as effectively as disposable air filters (depending on MERV ratings, of course) while only requiring a one-time purchase, as they are made out of washable material, usually on a wire rack. All your client needs to do is clean their filter according to manufacturer instructions, usually about once a month to once every three months. However, clients that need a higher amount of air filtration may not benefit from either regular disposable air filters or washable ones. In this case, they could benefit from pleated air filters.

Pleated

Pleated air filters are those with multiple bends in the filter itself that allow for more area to filter through. Since these filters trap air particles better than traditional filters, they are better for clients with special needs such as asthma or other lung issues but can't afford an electrostatic filter. However, the more effective the filter, the less airflow the AC unit can employ. This means that a client that needs a pleated filter may need a stronger AC unit as well. This could outweigh the cost-saving elements of pleated filters, along with having to regularly replace pleated filters.

Conclusion

Air filters are an important part of any air conditioning unit, and different types of air filters have different advantages and disadvantages. Disposable air filters are quite possibly the easiest to manage, but some customers may want reusable, washable air filters. Pleated air filters are better for those that want higher filtration, so long as their AC can handle the extra work that comes with extra filtration. You should take a careful review of what your client needs before choosing ac services.

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