Types of Air Filters
Not all aircon filters are made equally or are suitable for all air conditioning system types. Your choice of air conditioner filter can make a big difference to the quality of the air in your home. Here at Metropolitan, we are familiar with all types of air filters. Among them are:
High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) Filters
- Widely considered to be one of the most effective filters for improving air quality.
- These easily slide onto the return air grille panel of ducted air conditioning systems.
- They can purify your air from mould, bacteria, dust and more.
You'll typically need to clean HEPA filters every 1-3 months and replace non-washable ones every 6-12 months. If you use your air con frequently, those cleaning and replacement recommendations may be more frequent.
UV Filters
UV filters use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria, viruses, and mould spores, making them an effective tool for purifying the air.
- They use a UV lamp set to a germicidal wavelength to destroy harmful microorganisms effectively.
- They excel at eliminating bacteria, viruses, and mould spores but are not effective at removing common allergens like dust.
- Installation costs can be significantly higher compared to other types of air conditioning filters.
- UV radiation from these filters can react with oxygen to produce ozone.
- The UV lamps typically need replacing every 12 months, depending on the brand and model.
While UV filters offer powerful purification capabilities, understanding their limitations and maintenance requirements is essential for safe and effective use.
Electrostatic Filters
Electrostatic air filters are available in reusable or disposable options, giving you the option to wash or replace them when they need changing. Compared to other filters, however, electrostatic filters are not as effective at removing larger pollutants and may not be effective enough for asthma sufferers.
Washable Filters
If you're seeking a more convenient and environmentally conscious option, washable air filters are a great way to go. The material allows you to simply wash the filter and reuse it time and time again.
Though they're not as effective as other filter options, washable filters are great for homes where air quality is less concerning. To keep reusing these filters, you need to follow the instructions so they continue to work as intended.
Spun Glass Filters
Spun glass filters are among the most common aircon filters on the market. They are cost-effective, readily available, and used in many air conditioners.
It's worth noting, however, that spun glass filters aren't the most effective at removing contaminants from the air. They can quickly become clogged which can negatively impact the airflow and efficiency of your air con system.
Pleated Filters
Pleated filters are a versatile option for air conditioning systems, offering a balance between affordability and efficiency.
- Available in cotton or polyester, they efficiently capture debris and dust.
- They help dampen the sound of your air conditioner for quieter operation.
- Their dense design may force your air conditioner to work harder, reducing energy efficiency.
- Pleated filters are affordable and come in both reusable and disposable options to suit various needs.
Though they're perhaps not the ideal choice for advanced air filtration, pleated filters offer a good balance of performance and cost for general use.