What are the Different Types of AC Filters?

For people who enjoy the benefits of clean indoor air and an efficient air conditioning system – which is most of us, let’s be honest – exploring the many types of AC filters on the market is essential.

With so many types of air conditioner filters out there, knowing what they do and how they work can make a world of difference to your health and well-being at home.

From basic fibreglass filters to high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, each has different levels of particle filtration, airflow and maintenance requirements. If you’re thinking of upgrading your existing air conditioner or just want to improve general air quality, knowing the features and benefits of the different air filter types is a must.

What Does an Air Filter Actually Filter Out?

Air filters play a vital role in maintaining indoor air quality by trapping various airborne pollutants. The types of AC filters you choose can impact what they effectively filter out, so it’s important to know what they target. Here’s what an air filter can typically capture:

• Dust and larger particles that can accumulate and circulate in the air.
• Pollen to help reduce seasonal allergies.
• Mould spores that can cause respiratory issues.
• Pet dander for homes with furry friends.
• Dust mites that can trigger allergic reactions.
• Harmful particles like smoke and VOCs (in specialised filters).
• Airborne pollutants such as bacteria and viruses (in UV and HEPA filters).

By understanding what different air filter types can trap, you can choose the right one to improve indoor air quality and maintain a healthier environment.

Fibreglass Filters

Fibreglass filters (also known as spun glass filters, or fiberglass filters if you’re in the US) are the most common and cheapest type of air filter for your air conditioning system.

Made from spun glass, these disposable filters trap larger particles like dust and debris. It makes them a basic yet effective option for home heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Compared to other air filter types, they do have low air filtration capabilities. That being said, they are relatively basic, in a good way. They barely restrict airflow and keep your cooling system efficient.

Understanding the MERV Rating

However, fibreglass filters come with a low MERV rating. MERV stands for Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value and measures the effectiveness of HVAC filters at capturing particles and maintaining indoor air quality. The lower MERV rating of fibreglass filters means they provide low air filtration and are less effective in capturing finer particles like pollen or mould spores.

To keep your air conditioner running smoothly, you’re probably better off replacing these types of air filters than cleaning them.

Pleated Air Filters

The next step up from fibreglass filters is pleated air filters. They tend to boast better filtration without restricting airflow too much.

Made from polyester or cotton, pleated filters have folds that increase their surface area to capture larger particles and airborne pollutants more effectively. With a higher MERV rating than fibreglass air filters, pleated filters are ideal for anyone looking to improve air quality by trapping dust mites, pollen and pet dander.

Pleated filters can improve the efficiency of your air conditioner while keeping the air clean. Replacement is key to optimal performance and long-term air quality.

HEPA Filters

HEPA filters are quite highly regarded for their ability to capture particles and improve the quality of air inside your home.

A HEPA filter is perfect for people who suffer from allergies or respiratory sensitivities. They’re designed to trap at least 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. They effectively filter dust, mould spores and other harmful particles, making them very efficient in keeping the air clean.

HEPA air filters boast a higher MERV rating than other types of air filters. However, they can restrict airflow if they’re incompatible with your air conditioning system. To maintain aircon efficiency and improve indoor air quality, make sure your system can handle HEPA filters before you use them.

Electrostatic Air Filters

As their name perhaps suggests, electrostatic filters create static electricity as air passes through. That static electricity attracts and traps dust, pollen and other airborne particles.

Available in disposable and washable types, electrostatic filters offer a versatile solution for many residential HVAC systems. You can even clean and reuse washable electrostatic filters, which makes them an eco-friendly and cost-effective option. But while they’re quite proficient at trapping particles, you’ll need to monitor their condition to avoid restricting airflow.

Proper maintenance will keep your air conditioning system efficient and the air clean.

UV Filters

UV filters use ultraviolet light to neutralise airborne pollutants and other harmful particles that standard HVAC system filters can’t catch. These particles can include:

• bacteria
• mold spores
• viruses

When air passes through the air conditioning unit, UV filters reduce the risk of airborne illnesses and allergens. Though they’re very effective at sanitising the air in their own right, you’ll get the best results by pairing UV light filters with traditional AC filters to catch larger particles. Replacing your air filter guarantees that the light remains effective for longer.

Carbon Filters

Activated carbon filters are great at removing smoke, cooking smells and gases from indoor air. These filters have carbon-impregnated materials that trap particles as air passes through.

By absorbing and neutralising these pollutants, carbon filters improve indoor air quality by making it cleaner and fresher. While they are good at conquering gases and odours, these types of HVAC filters work best when paired with other types of AC filters to catch dust and larger particles.

Periodic replacement of your filters ensures peak performance and effective air filtration.

Media Filters

Media filters are a strong, worthwhile home air filtration solution. A solution that strikes the right balance between high-efficiency air filtration and minimal airflow restriction.

These filters consist of dense, layered materials that easily trap airborne particles like dust, pollen and pet dander. Boasting a higher MERV rating than standard fibreglass or pleated filters, media filters stop larger particles without restricting airflow or static pressure.

With their larger surface area, media filters can capture more pollutants, which makes them perfect for air quality and your HVAC system’s efficiency. They also have a longer lifespan, and less frequent replacement while still providing clean air.

Washable Filters

For an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to disposable air filters, reusable washable filters are well worth your consideration.

Made from durable materials, you can clean and reuse these filters many times over. And while they have a lower MERV rating than pleated or HEPA filters, they still catch dust and larger airborne particles and are great at improving indoor air quality.

To maintain efficiency, you need to wash reusable filters regularly. This helps to prevent clogging which can restrict airflow or affect the performance of your HVAC unit.

Selecting the Right HVAC Filters for Your Aircon System

With different air filters on the market, choosing the right filter for your HVAC system is essential for air quality and system efficiency.

Consider your needs:

• HEPA filters for high filtration to remove allergens
• Pleated or media filters for balanced filtration and airflow
• A carbon filter for odour control
• An electrostatic filter for reusable option with good performance

Make sure the MERV rating of your chosen filter matches your HVAC unit’s capability to prevent airflow restriction or static pressure. And given that the materials air filters are made of vary from type to type, make sure you choose one that is compatible with your system.

Understand the Many Types of HVAC Filters

Now that you know the types of AC filters, you can make an informed decision for your air conditioner and home.

Between all the various HVAC filter materials, each type has its own benefits for specific needs. Whether you want cost-effectiveness, odour control or maximum filtration for allergy relief, choosing the right filter will improve indoor air quality and your air conditioning system will run efficiently.

Maintenance and replacement of filters on time are crucial for optimal performance. By choosing the best filter for your system, you will have cleaner air and a healthier home.

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