Health disorders are brought on by the presence of pollution and dust and undoubtedly, it is a constant concern in today’s environment. Eddie Bernice Johnson says, “The health effects of air pollution imperil human lives. This fact is well-documented.” Air pollution may be caused by several factors. Even at your home or office, you may be dealing with poor air quality, harming your health. Do you have an old or worn-out HVAC system at your home or business place? In such situations, you might be putting your life at stake because the air you breathe is not clean and pure.
Importance of Air Filters
You must know the importance of good air quality for your home/office. So, having a quality air filter for your HVAC system is the key to matching the needs of your business place or home. Air filters are the most vital component of the HVAC system because they impact its performance greatly.
There are different types of air filters in the market. Their demand is growing day by day. In 2022, its market size was valued at USD 14.68 billion and is anticipated to reach USD 27.68 billion by 2031 from USD 15.75 billion in 2023. Its market is developing at a CAGR of 7.3% from 2024 to 2031 during the forecast period.
How does an Air Filter Function?
An air filter is generally manufactured with either spun fiberglass or pleated paper/cloth to remove the contaminants and particulates from the air. Then, the material is wrapped in a cardboard frame. After that, it is constructed into different sizes to meet the needs of different HVAC systems out in the industry. Its primary function is to trap and grasp all contaminants and particulates in the air circulating through an HVAC system. Contaminants such as pollen, mold and spores, fibers and lint, dust and dirt, hair and animal fur, bacteria or microorganisms, metal, wood, or plaster particles are not good for your health and comfort. The filtration of the air takes place when the disbursed air is drawn back into the Heating and Cooling System, where it is conditioned and used again.
Purchasing the right Air Filter
Air filters come with a short lifespan because they tend to fill up quickly with dust particles, pollutants, and allergens. Dirt can increase the chances of failure when it comes to HVAC systems. This is why there is a need to have a good quality air filter that needs to be changed after some time of use.
MERV Ratings
Before buying the right air filter, you must understand MERV ratings. These devices are measured on a scale known as MERV or Minimum Efficiency Rating Value, which ranges from 1 to 20. Manufacturers test air filters 6 times to decide on their MERV rating. Air filters with a MERV score between 1 and 4 capture large dust particles. Filters having a MERV rating of 8 to 12 are ideal for residential use whereas from 13 to 16 MERV rating, filters are used for industrial/commercial HVAC systems.
Types of air filters
A. UV (Ultraviolet) Filters
UV air filters rely on short-wave ultraviolet light to kill viruses and bacteria. Upon passing the air through the HVAC, disinfection occurs by the UV lamps with germicidal radiation. They are perfect for killing mold spores but can offer health hazards because they can convert oxygen into ozone.
b. HEPA filters
They can eliminate at least 99.97% of airborne pollutants and allergens. High-efficiency Particulate Air Filters have a MERV rating of around 16. They offer the highest protection against even the smallest airborne particles or microns including bacteria and tobacco.
c. Media filters
They filter bacteria and small airborne pollutants and provide the same level of filtration as a high-MERV filter with no negative results of static pressure or airflow. They are easy to maintain.
d. Washable filters
Are you looking for an environment-friendly air filter? Washable filters are the best, but a costly option. A washable filter will last for many years, but it needs regular maintenance for efficient performance.
e. Pleated filters
The pleats made of cotton folds/polyester fabrics in these filters increase the surface area of the filter for better filtering. The more pleats, the greater will be its filtering capacity.
f. Spun glass filters
A cost-effective and disposable air filter is the best type because it has strands of fiberglass woven together. It protects HVAC systems from debris and improves indoor quality.
Conclusion
Air filters play a key role in enhancing the air quality and seem to be a vital element of the HVAC system. Understanding the types of air filters with MERV ratings available in the market is the right way to select the right one for your needs and preferences.
