Air Cleaner Filters

Air filters are used to remove suspended particulate matter from air used in Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (HVAC) appliances.

Why is air filtration important?

1. HVAC appliances have a wet coil that is part of the appliance, if this part is exposed to some material that is suspended in the air, like mold spores, then mold might grow inside the appliance.
   
2. For allergy sufferers, many of the allergens that cause the problem are found suspended in the unfiltered air. Filtering them out of the air will improve allergy symptoms and decrease the need for allergy medication and homeopathic treatment. Research has shown that most asthma sufferers do not benefit much from simple measures like dust mite proof bed covers, because of the burden of dust mite in the whole house environment. That is why using air filters for the whole ventilation of the indoor environment has a great impact on quality of life for people who suffer similar conditions.

What are the types of air filters, and how do they work?

The exact mechanism of filtration differs with the type, but most commonly involves physically blocking the suspended matter while allowing the clean air through. Some types of air filters:

Pleated paper:  Paper that is folded over in different configurations, it will allow air through but the large dust and other particles get trapped in the paper.

HEPA filters: Used in settings where highly clean or sterile air is desired.

Electronic filters: the quality of the separation of the particles from air is supervised electronically.

Electrostatic filters: the particles are charged with electricity as they pass through the filter making it possible to attract them out of the air.

Glass fiber: they can be woven into intricate patterns, they are durable and inexpensive.

Uses of Air Filters:

Air filters are used in HVAC units (which are primarily concerned with the temperature of the air) to improve indoor air quality, which is beneficial to health in general but especially significant for allergy sufferers . They can also be added to vacuum cleaners to filter the exhaust of the device and can be used in furnaces to prevent burning products like ash from contaminating the indoor environment.