Although you probably know, or have at least heard about the value of using good filters and changing them often you may not realize just how critical this step is for saving energy consumption and ultimately, saving you month. Today, filters used for the heating and cooling system are actually innovative. In addition to new design elements, these filters are also made from new materials. These new filters are fully functional yet capable of capturing the smallest particles of dirt.
In addition, when filters are changed on a regular basis, not only is the air within the home cleaner and healthier, but the furnace and air conditioning unit does not have to work as hard. As a result, the amount of energy needed to heat and cool the home is reduced, as well as the cost for running the applicable unit. With this, you would have a more comfortable home during the colder and hotter months while not forking out as much money to the utility company.
The way filters are made today, they do not restrict airflow or become clogged. When this happens, the efficiency of the air conditioning unit or furnace is compromised. As you will see, three different types of filters are now made to include fiberglass, pleated, and electrostatic, each unique and beneficial.
Fiberglass
For the most part, fiberglass filters are affordable with a price tag of $15 to $40 depending on the system. This woven material works relatively well but because it is one of the older types of filtration systems, it does not work as well as the other systems do. Typically, fiberglass filters work great for filtering out larger particulates of mold, mildew, dust, and toxins but particulates that are small can get through and into the home. Because not everything in the air is being filtered, the home’s air quality is not as clean as it could be and more energy is used because the furnace or air conditioning have to run more and run harder.
Pleated Filters
Although pleated filters are most expensive than fiberglass, they also work far better. Because of the way in which the material is pleated, small particulates cannot penetrate. The cost for pleated filters ranges from $35 to $70, well worth spending knowing the filters would not become clogged easily, air quality would be improved, and the air conditioning unit and furnace would run more efficiently.
Of the three types of filters, electrostatic are the most expensive with prices ranging $40 to $150. These filters are also the best you can by, designed to trap not only tiny particulates of debris but also allergens and smoke. Although the electrostatic filters work great, they are generally the best choices for people who run the air conditioning unit and/or furnace often. In addition, experts agree for the best efficiency, an air purification system should run along with the use of these filters.
Regardless of the type of filter chosen, the most important thing to improve energy efficiency and save money would be to change the filters often. For fiberglass, it is recommended the filters be replaced once a month whereas for a pleated filter, one of high quality could easily last three months.
