Pleated Air Filters – Negative Aspects They tend to increase energy consumption and can skyrocket your energy bill. Pleated air filters might also require you to modify your HVAC system in order to accommodate them. Ultimately, they are typically 3 times more costly than traditional non-pleated filters.
A pleated filter is made up of different sizes, and readily captures pathogens as small as 0.3 microns, filtering out even the tiniest of bacteria. They are overall more effective in capturing very tiny particles than non-pleated air filters; 99.97% of airborne particles are trapped with a pleated air filter.
Pleated air filters can restrict airflow to some extent due to their denser construction and larger surface area. The pleats create more resistance for the air to pass through, which can potentially reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system.
Fiberglass filters shield HVAC systems by capturing bigger debris but are less effective at filtering small particles. If you're looking to reduce allergies, pleated filters are recommended. Pleated filters are better at improving indoor air quality and may cost a little bit more, but they have higher MERV ratings.
Initial unladen performance of pleated filters is marginally better than foam equivalents, however as particles begin to build up between the pleat pack recesses, this blocks up the potential flow area – thus reducing performance.
HEPA Filters
With a MERV rating nearing 16, HEPA filters provide the highest protection for your home. They're able to remove even the smallest microns or airborne particles, including tobacco and bacteria. Those who live with allergies or other respiratory issues may benefit from HEPA filters the most.
Pleated air filters are more expensive at the outset, but they are also more efficient at trapping particles and can last up to 90 days, depending on use. When you purchase a new air filter, you'll find the manufacturer's recommendations for the replacement schedule.
Pleated vs non-pleated air filters tend to greatly restrict air flow due to density of material they are made of. They tend to increase energy consumption and can skyrocket your energy bill. Pleated air filters might also require you to modify your HVAC system in order to accommodate them.
Pleated filters with MERV ratings from 5 to 8 are classified as medium filters and are the most common in residential HVAC systems.
MERV 11 is generally not too high for most home HVAC systems and provides effective filtration, capturing smaller particles like pet dander, pollen, and mold spores. This level is beneficial for households with allergy sufferers or pets, as it improves indoor air quality.
For most homes, a MERV rating between 8 and 13 strikes the perfect balance between filtration, airflow, and cost.
Pleating the filter media allows more media contained within the filter frame. More media means more surface area to capture and hold particles. The capacity to hold more dust makes the pleated filters last longer than fiberglass filters.
Switch To Pleated Filters
Fiberglass air filters will get the job done, but in most cases, pleated air filters are much better. Pleated air filters capture smaller particles and are less likely to clog within a short period of time.
As you can see, there are several key differences between cheap and expensive air filters. Cheap air filters don't last as long, are less efficient at trapping particles, and have a smaller surface area to filter. This can lead to poor indoor air quality and increased health risks.
HEPA, or High-Efficiency Particulate Air, filters have even higher MERV ratings, ranging from 17 to 20. These filters are extremely efficient and are used in cases where air quality is critical. They can remove almost all of the particulates in your facility's indoor air.
Most manufacturers recommend changing basic fiberglass filters every 30 days. Higher-quality pleated filters should generally be changed every 90 days, though they can potentially last up to six months.
One of the main disadvantages of air purifiers with HEPA filters is the need to replace these filters regularly to maintain their effectiveness. A HEPA filter should be changed every 6 to 12 months, depending on its use and the environment in which it is used.
Due to their larger surface area, pleated filters are better at trapping particles like dust, pollen, and pet dander. They improve air quality and reduce strain on your HVAC system. Non-pleated filters are cheaper but less effective at capturing smaller particles.
How Often Do I Need to Change Out My Air Filter? Generally, most air filter manufacturers and HVAC companies recommend changing your air filter every 90 days, or 3 months. That can change based on where your home is located (ex. dusty, dry climates), if you have any pets, and the age of your system and equipment.
Home air filter recommendations
Hog Hair Air Filters – These washable air filters are more efficient and longer-lasting than fiberglass filters. They also do not restrict the airflow to your system like 1-inch pleated filters.
The Best Way to Clean Your Pleated Air Filters
Vacuum them regularly: The best way to clean your pleated air filters is to vacuum them regularly with an attachment that can reach into the crevices of the filter. This will help remove any dirt, dust, or debris that may be clogging up the filter.
Selecting a good quality filter with 12 – 16 MERV to remove a high percentage of offending particulates. Be sure to check your filter at a minimum of once per month.
' Hang a clean white sheet a few inches away from an air vent for a few minutes. If the sheet turns gray, the air filter is dirty and it's time to replace it. Keep in mind that dust around the air vents may also indicate a clog in the ducts.