Air Conditioner Filters

Taking care of the filter in your central heating and-or air-conditioning system is a huge step in maintaining the life and efficiency of the services. Not to mention, those that do take care of their filters also enjoy fresher, more clean air. It is especially important to clean and change filters when someone in the house suffers from allergies. In fact, filters should be replaced more frequently in such cases.

Aside from allergies, those that live in a sandy community near a beach, near a major roadway, or near a construction project should also change their filters regularly. This is because filters within our heating and cooling units are responsible for filtering out the air and trapping harmful substances that shouldn’t be breathed in.

When looking for a replacement filter, it is a good idea to know a little bit about a measurement called the micron. A micron is another term for micrometer and stands for one millionth of a meter. Many of the particles mixed into our air, such as pollens and spores, are only a few microns in size. This makes them very difficult to filter. In order to filter out such small particles, the filter itself would have to contain holes so small that air would have a difficult time getting through. This obviously would affect the ability of the system to move air generously.

A process of electrostatic filtration was created to solve this problem. Electrostatic filtration works to create a cleaner home environment and a reduction of allergic reactions in occupants. The process works by allowing particles to be fed through a mesh that electrically charges them. These charged particles go through another filter that contains the opposite charge. The oppositely charged particles are then drawn to each other and adhere to the second layer of filtration material. Minute particles are removed from the air through this process.

With electrostatic filtration, two different types of filters exist depending on what type of electricity is used. Some filters use electricity to create the magnetic field and others use static electricity. Those that use electricity are permanent filters that only get removed for cleaning purposes. They are designed to last a lifetime.

The other filters, relying on static electricity, are designed to last for several years as long as they receive the proper cleaning. They are made from polyester, a plastic-like substance. It is recommended that you first try using the polyester filter. If you come to finds that is isn’t doing a good enough job filtering your air then switch to the electrically operated permanent type.

Regardless of the type of filter used, it is strongly recommend that you clean or change your filter quarterly. Keep in mind, failure to maintain your filters can lead to bigger, more expensive problems with your heating and cooling. Dirty filters can shorten the life of the motor which is much more expensive compared to a filter.

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