When it comes to selecting the ideal air filter for your 16x25x1 opening, there are a few special considerations to keep in mind. Pleatless air filters and electrostatic fiberglass air filters are two of the most common types of air filters available. Disposable folded HVAC air filters are single-use air filters, while washable air filters are usually made of woven polypropylene and are electrostatically charged to capture more particles. Pleated filters are constructed from dense layers of cotton or plastic fibers that are pleated to provide more surface area to trap particles.
Disposable folded air filters cannot be washed or reused like washable air filters, and they are usually cheaper than pleated filters. Filterbuy offers a wide range of sizes, thicknesses, and MERV air filter ratings so you can find reliable aftermarket air filters for residential use, as well as for commercial or industrial applications. The perfect foldable air filters have a mesh fabric that traps and absorbs passing particles without restricting airflow. Washable air filters are more environmentally friendly than disposable fiberglass filters, but they are also more expensive.
The electrostatic charge on washable air filters can decrease over time, so you may need to replace them more often than disposable ones. Air filters are especially important for homes that are in areas with high levels of allergens, pollutants, and odors. A pleatless air filter has a MERV rating of 2 to 4, making it considerably less effective at trapping small particles than a pleated filter. A dirty air filter has layers of dirt and debris that prevent incoming air from easily passing through it, so it's important to replace your filter regularly.
A filter with a very high MERV rating will be very dense, and a dense air filter means that your HVAC equipment will work harder to extract air through the filter. Choosing the right air filter requires understanding your needs and which filter is right for the job. You don't have to worry about dirty air filters cluttering up your system when a new filter arrives every month. Higher airflow allows for more air cycles per hour, which prevents the accumulation of waste during working hours.