Understanding the Different Types of Air Filters

When it comes to keeping the air clean and free from dust, pollen, and other airborne pollutants, air filters play an important role. With a variety of sizes and types available, it can be difficult to know which one is best for your home or business. To help you make an informed decision, let's take a look at the different types of air filters.

Mechanical Air Filters

Mechanical air filters are typically made from paper or fiberglass and use a fan to draw in air. As the air passes through the filter, particles are trapped in its fibers so they don't enter your space. These filters come in various sizes and can be used for both residential and commercial applications.

Pleated Air Filters

Pleated air filters are a type of mechanical filter that consists of multiple layers of pleated material. This design allows them to have a larger surface area than traditional flat filters, making them more effective at trapping particles as small as 0.3 microns - such as dust, pollen, and other allergens.

HEPA Filters

High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are designed to capture 99.97% of particles that measure 0.3 microns or larger from the air - making them ideal for medical settings where very clean air is required. It's important to note that these types of filters need to be replaced regularly in order to maintain their efficiency.

Carbon Filters

Carbon filters use activated carbon to remove odors and other airborne contaminants from the air. They are often used in commercial settings, such as restaurants and hospitals, to reduce the presence of unpleasant smells. Carbon filters are also effective at trapping particles, but they are not as efficient as HEPA filters.