There is a high standard of quality for outdoor air in order to keep us healthy, but what about the air quality in your home? That is something that each homeowner needs to be proactive about fixing.
The best way to counteract poor indoor air quality is to be proactive about maintaining your ventilation systems and filters. Improving indoor air quality for Glendale homeowners is the mission of UFirst HVAC, and we’re here to keep you breathing right.
Are Air Filters Effective?
A ventilation system circulates air throughout a home. Before the air flows into a room, it goes through a filter. That filter acts as a kind of net, capturing potentially harmful particulates at a microscopic level.
We measure the effectiveness of a specific air filter with the minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV). The higher the number, the more effective the filter is.
Homeowners need to remember that the higher the MERV rating on the filter, the harder the HVAC system will have to work. Regular HVAC inspections and tune-ups can ensure that the home ventilation system works correctly.
What Is an Electrostatic Air Filter?
An electrostatic air filter produces an electric charge to collect pollutants from the air. They are very effective at capturing particulates since they attract them based on electromagnetics. They help in improving air quality for Glendale homeowners by capturing more particulate matter, being more cost-effective, and being easy to maintain.
Electrostatic air filters essentially work like magnets. You’ve seen magnets capture metal filings or small metallic objects. Electrostatic air filters work the same way; they act like a magnet for dust, viruses, dander, and other particles in your home that can cause poor air quality.
An electrostatic air filter can fit most normal ventilation systems, so you can replace your usual filter with one of these for better indoor air quality in your home. If you clean them regularly to avoid a buildup of dust, they will last a long time compared to other types of filters.
Electrostatic Filter vs. Other Filters
There are other air filter options for an HVAC system to consider. A regular filter has pleated materials in a cardboard frame. You have to replace these filters often, unlike electrostatic filters. These filters are often one-inch thick and come in universal vent sizes.
A High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter can trap up to 99% of particulates that are .03 microns small. This type of filter is used mainly in hospitals. They require a lot of power from the HVAC system to be effective, so most homes don’t use them. Electrostatic filters provide very similar results without using as much power.
Pros & Cons of Electrostatic Air Filters
Before committing to electrostatic air filters for your HVAC system, you’ll want to consider the pros and cons.
Pros of an Electrostatic Air Filter
- Cost-Effective: The initial cost of an electrostatic filter is around $50 compared to the $10 cost of a regular filter. You can keep the electrostatic filter for years, however.
- Timer Saver: The only maintenance necessary for an electrostatic filter is washing it occasionally.
- High MERV Rating: Most electrostatic filters have a MERV rating between 5 and 6.
Cons of an Electrostatic Air Filter
- Monthly Washing: You should wash an electrostatic air filter at least once a month to maintain effectiveness.
- Exposure During Maintenance: When washing the filters, you might come in contact with contaminants. This can be bad for anyone with acute allergies or asthma.
Call UFirst HVAC Experts To Know If Electrostatic Air Filters Are Right For You
To find out more about the effectiveness of electrostatic air filters, call UFirst HVAC. Our technicians are knowledgeable about indoor air quality and provide exceptional customer service. We will do our best to keep you safe and healthy in your home and help with improving air quality for Glendale homeowners.