Regularly changing or cleaning your air filter will keep the furnace in top condition. This can also prevent any malfunctions. Knowing the basic components of your furnace can make it easier to repair in an emergency.
Here’s the answer to your question: What is inside of an air filter?
Understanding Air Filter Design
It is designed in a very simple way. The furnace air filter does not contain any moving components. It is made up of a membrane which filters air. Air filters are available in various sizes. Air filters are rated according to their MERV ratings.
Where does the air filter go?
It is important to know the MERV ratings of different filters. The information will be useless, however, if the location of the MERV 8 14x20x1 filter in your furnace is not known. The air filter in every HVAC system is located between the HVAC and return duct.
What are MERV ratings?
Minimum Efficiency Reporting value is a short form of MERV. The MERV rating lets people know the effectiveness of an air filter in removing pollutants. The furnace can be purchased much easier.
The MERV rating of most air filters ranges between 1-16. A higher number means that the membrane is thicker and denser. Experts say that the air filter which has the highest MERV isn’t always the best. The membrane can be thick and impede airflow, causing a variety of problems. You can consult with an HVAC technician about the best MERV-rated air filter to use for your furnace.
What is your air filter made of?
Your HVAC system’s furnace filter will determine the indoor air quality. The 14x20x1 – MERV8 air filter is available in different materials including polyester, cotton and fiberglass. How well the furnace filters air depends on the type of air filter material.
Fiberglass Filters
These filters are the most common standard air filter in the HVAC systems. They have a MERV between 2 and 4 rating. The air filter is made from spun fiberglass with a thickness of one inch.
They are excellent at protecting your furnace against dust. They are not effective at maintaining good air quality indoors. Avoid disposable fiberglass filters if you suffer from respiratory issues.
Pleated fabric filters
The pleated air filters come in cotton or paper. They have a rating of MERV between 6-13. Airflow from the incoming flow charges air filters with electrostatic charge. This increases their ability to filter out smaller particles. Cotton air filters have a MERV above 13 rating. These filters are slightly higher priced than pleated fabrics air filters.
Electrostatic filters
Electrostatic filters are made from fibers that charge themselves to capture small particles. You can choose between washable and disposable electrostatic filter depending on what you need. Washable electrostatic filter MERV rating ranges between 4 and 10
You can now replace or clean your air filter with confidence, knowing what is inside.