Air filtering is an important part of maintaining a healthy home environment. While disposable air filters are the most common and affordable type of furnace filter, washable air filters offer a more cost-effective and efficient solution. Washable air filters have an average MERV rating of between 1 and 4, meaning they are not as effective as higher-rated disposable filters. However, they are still able to trap larger air pollutants such as dust, dust mites, carpet fibers, and pollen.
Electrostatic filters work by drawing air pollutants through their opposing charges, capturing more particles as air passes through the filters. These filters can fill up with contaminants over time, reducing their performance. Fortunately, washable air filters can be easily cleaned and replaced at any time, allowing homeowners to remove harmful contaminants. The breathable cotton fabric used in these filters tends to better absorb particles and allows more air to enter the engine, resulting in better long-term engine health.
Whole house filters, air filters, and oven filters are designed to capture the dirt found in most homes, but no matter how clean the washable filter looks, there's no guarantee that it's completely free of debris. You won't need to buy washable filters very often, so the long-term cost of washable filters is likely to be equal to or lower than the cost of disposable filters. Using electrostatic filters means that you don't have to worry about this problem, since this type of filter has a lifespan as long as that of your oven or air conditioner. Washable air filters tend to have a lower MERV rating and are less efficient than disposable fiberglass HVAC filters, but they can still capture up to 95 percent of the largest particles circulating in the house.
This can help keep indoor air quality high and help the air conditioning system work as efficiently as possible. Replacing disposable filters is relatively easy since you just need to remove the old filter and place a new one in its place. On the other hand, when using a washable filter you must take care to clean it properly and replace it with a new one when necessary. This is because using a wet filter can promote biological growth and problems related to indoor air quality.
A high-quality washable air filter removes these foreign particles from the oil that circulates in engine components for greater protection and longevity. If you're considering switching from disposable to washable air filters for your home, it's important to weigh the pros and cons carefully. While washable air filters may be more cost-effective in the long run, they may not be as effective at filtering out smaller particles as disposable fiberglass HVAC filters.
