Lots of things go on behind the scenes of your HVAC system. In particular, air filters remove dust and dirt particles from your home’s air. Without these filters, individuals with underlying health conditions would be at risk. However, there are different types of filters that have different benefits. Pleated filters have become increasingly popular over the last few years. Let’s examine pleated filters and why they are so effective.
Less Porous
First, pleated filters are less porous from the start. The existence of pores means that air can easily pass through. When air passes through, some particles are bound to go undetected by the filter. While pleated filters still have pores, they are much smaller than those of their fiberglass counterparts. You never really know what sort of particles will pass through the filter. Bacteria and contaminants can be so microscopically small that only the least porous filters can catch them. In a nutshell, fiberglass filters are porous and pleated ones are not. This isn’t to say that fiberglass filters are useless at all times. There definitely is a time and place for a fiberglass filter, but if your aim is to purify your air, you’ll want to make the transition to pleated filters.
More Resistance
Pleated filters provide more resistance. This is the other side of the same coin from above. A pleated filter is made of a tightly woven material that doesn’t let many particles through. Aside from air, not much can get through this resistance. If you have traditional fiberglass filters, feel the two in the palm of your hand for comparison. You can easily tell the difference by breathing on the material. It’s hard to stress just how intricate the pleated filter is. At first glance, it nearly looks like a solid surface that won’t let any air through. However, you have to remember that your cooling system is blowing air at a very rapid pace. The air might also be pressurized to a certain degree. This allows for a constant air stream while separating out all the solids.
Handles All Particles
Now, think about all the hairs from your pet and dirt particles that get tracked in from your child’s shoes. You can rest assured that the level of resistance that pleated filters offer will catch these contaminants in your HVAC system. Furthermore, it’s not all about how porous the material is. The actual design of the filter matters as well. Pleated filters come with an array of microfibers that latch on to the particles. When you can’t risk anything getting through, you want your filter to be pleated above anything else. Particles can range from innocent specks of dirt to bacteria that can infect your nose and lungs. On the latter end of the spectrum, for those who have health and breathing conditions, it is absolutely necessary to catch these particles. Just a couple of specks can be enough to send someone to the hospital. Pleated filters are amazing for the safety of your family as well as your guests.
Maximal Surface Area
Pleated filters also maximize the available surface area of the filter. A large surface area is good for stopping particles from passing through. There are more opportunities for the particle to get stuck. For example, this is evident when you take apart the filter for replacement. With a pleated filter, you’ll notice that there is so much dust and debris on all the surfaces. A flat filter has less surface area, and as a result, fewer particles can be caught at one time. Pleated filters take advantage of the most basic geometric principles.
Not Too Large
At the same time, pleated filters don’t take up an excessive volume. It’s quite an engineering feat to get the best of both worlds: The surface area is respectable because of the pleats, yet the filter itself is compact. If you have a modern cooling system, you can take advantage of this design every time you turn the system on. The pleated filter will get the job done without interfering with other components of your HVAC appliance.
Many Types of Pleated Filters
It’s important to note that there are many types of pleated filters. You’ll want to acquire one that is compatible with your system and brings out the best in its filtration capabilities. As a homeowner, you can experiment with these variations. After using a certain pleated filter for a week, try a different one and test the air quality. If you notice a significant improvement, go with the latter filter. This sort of adaption is one of the biggest selling points of pleated filters. Moreover, this is a relatively modern form of technology. Researchers make developments each year, and there are always improvements to be made. If you can stay up to date with the latest news, you’ll always have the best efficiency at your fingertips.
Higher MERV Ratings
The MERV scale measures how many particles can pass through a filter. A higher MERV rating means that fewer contaminants can pass through. In general, pleated filters have some of the highest MERV ratings on the market. While this number isn’t the end of the discussion, it’s definitely important to consider. At the very least, it is a way of quantifying how effective a filter is. When you’re choosing between a pleated filter with an impressive MERV rating and a cheap filter, the decision is almost obvious. The pleated filter is going to do a better job in almost all circumstances.
Equal Safety
Finally, pleated filters provide all of the above benefits without sacrificing safety. Contrary to popular belief, pleated filters don’t make your AC work harder than usual. It’s a common misconception that pleated filters block too much of the air and force your HVAC system to use a stronger air stream. Tests have shown that these filters don’t require extra power. There isn’t an additional risk of overheating, and even on the hottest summer days, you can use pleated filters without worry.
Safety is paramount when it comes to your HVAC system, and pleated filters meet safety standards without sacrificing efficiency. Overall, they don’t have many downsides at all. Moreover, handling these filters can be even easier than before. You’re able to wash these filters and reuse them as long as the manufacturer has given a thumbs up.
Call Professional Services
When all is said and done, pleated filters are effective for a number of reasons. Moving forward, they could very well be the best type of filter for your HVAC system. A professional company such as Beltway Air Conditioning & Heating in Hanover, MD, is a great resource to help you get started with changing to a pleated filter. We’re experts at everything from HVAC installation to repair to replacement. We can also manage heating, air quality and other HVAC concerns. Give us a call right away so that we can bring you the best pleated filters for your home!