A furnace filter is a type of filter that is designed to remove particles from the air that passes through the furnace and into the home. These filters are typically made of either pleated media, fiberglass, or even electrostatic media. The type of filter used depends on the furnace and the needs of the homeowner. If you live in an area where air quality is not too good, you can choose to buy an air filter 17x21x1.
Types of Furnace Filters
There are several types of furnace filters that can be used to keep the air in your home clean. These include:
- Pleated Media Filters: Pleated media filters are made of a material that is pleated, or folded, to increase the surface area for catching particles. These filters are able to capture a wide range of particles, including dust, pollen, and mold spores.
- Fiberglass Filters: Fiberglass filters are made of a fibrous material that catches particles. These filters are typically more affordable than other types of filters and can be used in most types of furnaces. However, they do not capture as many particles as other types of filters.
- Electrostatic Filters: Electrostatic filters are made of a material that creates an electrical charge when air passes through it. This charge is used to attract and capture particles in the air. These filters are more expensive than other types but are more effective at capturing particles.
- Activated Carbon Filters: Activated carbon filters are made of a material that is activated to increase its surface area for trapping particles. These filters are often used in combination with other types of filters to improve the overall filtering efficiency.
Choosing the Right Filter for Your Furnace
When it comes to choosing the right filter for your furnace, there are a few things that you should consider. First, you should determine the size of the filter that is needed for your furnace. This can usually be done by looking at the manufacturer’s specifications.
You should also consider the type of filter that is best for your needs. For example, if you have pets in your home, you will likely want to choose a filter that is designed to capture pet dander. If you are concerned about allergies, you may want to choose a filter that is designed to capture pollen and other allergens.
Finally, you should also consider the cost of the filter. While more expensive filters may be more effective, they may also be more expensive to replace on a regular basis.
Benefits of Installing a Furnace Filter
Installing a furnace filter can provide many benefits for your home. The most obvious benefit is improved air quality. By trapping particles, the filter can help to reduce the amount of dust, pollen, and other allergens in the air. This can help people with allergies or asthma to breathe easier.
Installing a furnace filter can also help to reduce energy costs. By trapping particles, the filter can help to reduce the amount of dust and other particles that can clog the furnace and reduce its efficiency. This can result in lower energy bills.
Finally, installing a furnace filter can help to extend the life of your furnace. By trapping particles, the filter can help to reduce the amount of dust and other particles that can cause damage to the furnace over time. This can help the furnace to last longer and reduce the need for costly repairs.
Conclusion
Choosing the right filter for your furnace is an important decision. There are a variety of filters available that can help to improve the air quality in your home and reduce energy costs. It’s important to choose the right filter for your needs and to replace it regularly to ensure the best performance.
