The quality of the air you breathe is determined by the filters you have in your house. Hence, we ought to choose filters with scrutiny. During your research, these two names will commonly spring up: pleated and fiberglass air filters. Pleated and fiberglass air filters are generations apart with apparent distinction. Hence, let’s learn more about them and which one is better for your house.
Fiberglass Filters:
They are cheap filters commonly used in residences. As the name suggests, a fiberglass filter comprises a continuous fiberglass mesh. The mesh is not tightly knit, so it’s pretty inept at air filtering. With a MERV rating of about 3-4, the industry dubs them the “rock catchers.” They won’t be able to provide even the basic filtering. Hence, it’s no surprise fiberglass air filters fail to trap dirt and dust. On the flip side, you can expect maximum airflow from them. With these filters, even the feeblest of HVAC motors will work without breaking a sweat.
Pleated Air Filters:
Pleated air filters lie on the other side of the filtering spectrum. They possess an exceptional filtering capacity due to folded screens of polyester, cotton, or plastic fibers. The folding of the material increases the surface area, thus, improving the filtering capacity. Pleated filters have a MERV rating of 8 and may increase up to 13. This rating translates into the ability to capture minute particles such as dirt, dust, pollen, spores, and other allergens. However, there is a tradeoff here; what the filter achieves in efficiency, it has to compromise in airflow. Restricted airflow can put a strain on the HVAC’s blower motor.
The Cost Comparison:
A quick comparison of prices may be misleading. The initial investment tilts in favor of fiberglass filters as they are super cheap, and pleated filters can cost more than twice the cost of fiberglass. However, if we put our thinking caps on and analyze the running cost, pleated filters will triumph.
Frequency Of Changing The Filters:
The suggested frequency of changing fiberglass is 30 days. On the other hand, pleated filters can serve you for around 90 days. Hence, pleated filters can last up to three times longer. Just imagine the expenses and hassle pleated filters can save you from. After all, who wants to change air filters every month?
HVAC Maintenance Cost:
“Pleated filters restrict the airflow and can increase the chances of HVAC breakdown.” This notion is well heard, but it’s pretty old. It won’t do justice to modern HVAC systems and pleated filters. Technological innovation aided in developing filters with excellent efficiency and improved airflow; meanwhile, HVAC motors have also become sturdier. Hence, the risk of HVAC breakdown is staved off if you regularly change pleated filters. On the contrary, fiberglass filters let dust and other abrasives float free in the air. These particles will eventually mess up the HVAC system, lining up costly repairs.
A pleated filter will undoubtedly serve your HVAC systems and house well. To purchase quality filters, you can rely on Clean Liquid Systems. Feel free to call us at (713) 253-0100 and learn more about our services.