As an expert in the field of air filtration, I can confidently say that pleated filters are the clear winner when it comes to performance and efficiency. In comparison to their fiberglass counterparts, pleated filters outperform in nearly every category. Not only are they more effective at filtering out small air pollutants, but they are also safer for both the air and your air conditioning unit. And despite popular belief, they are not significantly more expensive.
If you want the best for your home, pleated air filters are the way to go. While fiberglass filters may seem like a safe option, they fall short in comparison to pleated filters when it comes to filtering out smaller particles such as pollen, pet dander, and bacteria. This is due to their limited surface area and inability to trap the smallest particles. Over time, this can lead to a build-up that weakens your air conditioning system and decreases its efficiency, resulting in higher energy costs. On the other hand, pleated filters excel at filtering and trapping common contaminants found in the air.
They also have a longer lifespan of up to 90 days and a higher dust holding capacity. When it comes down to it, pleated filters are simply more efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective than fiberglass filters. You may be wondering if fiberglass filters are even safe to use at all after learning about their limitations. The truth is, if you want an air filter that can effectively remove small particles like bacteria, pollen, and pet dander, a pleated air filter is your best bet. Fiberglass filters may work, but they cannot compare to the superior performance of pleated filters. Fiberglass filters also have a tendency to clog easily, which can hinder airflow and decrease air quality and comfort.
If you're in the market for a new air filter for your furnace or air conditioning unit, you can search by filter size or MERV rating to find the perfect fit. While fiberglass filters may be the most basic option, pleated filters are undoubtedly the better choice in most cases. And if you value higher air quality, long-term savings, and the convenience of changing your filter less frequently, let Filter King help you find the right pleated filter for your needs. A pleated filter is made of a synthetic fiber material that is folded in an accordion or pleated shape to create more surface area for trapping dust and dirt. While they may not be the cheapest option, pleated air filters provide superior filtration compared to fiberglass panel filters.
As panel filters, fiberglass filters have a low dust holding capacity and cannot effectively filter out fine air pollutants like dust, pet dander, pollen, mold spores, bacteria, and viruses. The main advantage of pleated filters is their ability to resist clogging and maintain efficiency over time. When searching for air filters for your HVAC system, you will come across various options with no clear answers. This is where the MERV rating (minimum efficiency reporting value) comes into play. This standard rating system measures the overall effectiveness of an air filter in trapping air pollutants.
On the other hand, fiberglass filters are often referred to as "disposable" or "throwaway" filters because they typically only last up to 30 days. While it may seem like a budget-friendly option to choose the cheapest fiberglass filter, it may not be the best choice for your home, HVAC system, or family's health.
