Is Your AC Filter the Right Type?
When was the last time that you replaced your air conditioning filter? It's probably time for you to do so, but do you know what type you should be fitting?
What is the Real Purpose of the Filter?
Strangely enough, the air conditioning filter is not primarily designed to improve the air quality or to ensure that you breathe in less toxic fumes, but it is designed to protect the equipment. If you don't have a filter, particles will become stuck to the coil and other bits of equipment. If this goes untreated, it will lead to failure. If your system is playing up currently, this could be the reason. In this case you need to get an expert to have a good look at it.
Don't Worry about High-Tech Filters
You might think that you should choose the latest in high-tech equipment, but pause for a second to consider. Is this overkill? When you consider a study that was initiated by the Housing and Mortgage Corporation in Canada, it seems that the majority of tiny air particles are concentrated close to human activity inside the home and do not find their way through the ductwork towards the filters.
Also, consider the fact that the air conditioning units are not working around the clock (certainly this is the case in different seasons). Think how many times the air conditioning will switch itself on and off during the course of the day as the thermostat kicks in. Obviously in all these situations that "special" high-tech filter cannot do much to help you.
Efficiency Is Important
A lot has changed over the years in terms of the technology used in the construction of the filter. It used to be thought that the main aim should be to trap the very fine particles so that people could breathe more easily. However, it was found that this would have the opposite effect and lead to poor efficiency, impeding airflow and causing higher bills.
Today's best filters are electrostatic and are made from a combination of polyester and polypropylene. These filters work by generating an electrostatic charge whenever air passes across the filter surface. Positively charged particles will automatically attach to the negatively charged filter surface. The overall efficiency of these filters is further improved by having several layers.
All you need to do is to thoroughly wash and dry these filters once per month, and they will help not only to filter the air efficiently, but protect the equipment as well.
For more information, contact professionals in your area.
