When it comes to air filtration, there are two main types of filters: pleated and non-pleated. Pleated air filters offer a much higher level of filtration and are much more efficient than non-pleated filters in capturing microscopic particles suspended in the air. Both types of filters can filter lint, dust, and insects, but pleated filters can also filter pollen, mold, dust mites, bacteria, and pet dander. Choosing the right air filter for your residential or commercial space may require more research than you think.
Not all air filters were created the same way, and you need to make sure you select the one that's most suitable for your environment. Pleated air filters are incredibly effective at keeping small particles out of the air due to their high level of filtration. This is because pleated air filters have higher MERV ratings, ranging from 8 to 13, and are made of polyester or cotton paper. You also have a lot of flexibility with size when choosing a pleated air filter, and they are durable, as they usually need to be changed after 90 days. A disadvantage of using pleated air filters is that they tend to be more expensive than non-pleated air filters. Another option you have for air filters is to opt for one that is not pleated.
The biggest advantage of opting for crease-free air filters is that they are more affordable and can remove larger particles, such as dust and lint, that can enter the air. Another benefit of crease-free air filters is that they are disposable. Fiberglass air conditioning filters and electronic and electrostatic air filters are also considered non-pleated. While crease-free air filters may be cheap, they don't last as long and aren't as durable as pleated ones, but they're still an effective option for many homes. The Minimum Efficiency Report Value (MERV) is an industry-standard filter system that rates the overall effectiveness of air filters.
Pleated filters come in several different MERV sizes and ratings, and can be installed in the same slot where disposable filters are located. A non-pleated air filter has a MERV rating of 2 to 4, making it considerably less effective at trapping small particles than a pleated filter. The pleated filter has MUCH better airflow numbers, as the thicker two-inch non-pleated filter is much more restrictive. A crease-free filter is now best suited for large spaces that require fast, free airflow, and only traps the largest particles. With more than 17 years of experience, RTF is recognized as a trusted retailer for top-tier brands in the indoor air filtration market.
The air leaving the oven must pass through the air filters quickly or the hot air may drop in temperature. The advantage of a pleated filter is that they offer more surface area than a non-pleated filter. All things being equal, this means that the pleated filter will allow for greater airflow. But, as is often the case, everything else is not the same. The non-pleated fiberglass filter on the right will allow greater airflow than the pleated filter on the right; however, it will also allow more particles to pass through. Although pleated air filters are definitely better than non-pleated air filters, there are a few other factors to consider before buying a filter for your air conditioner.
Non-pleated filters are made of fiberglass or some other electrostatic material, which is woven at random to create a barrier through which air passes. However, keep in mind that a higher MERV will require more energy for air to pass through, as the material is denser. The surface area of the pleated filter is approximately 8.5 square feet, while the one-inch filter measures only 2.7 square feet. As air is pumped into a ventilation system, the airflow is filtered and cleaned without problems. In a commercial environment, crease-free filters are a great way to keep the air clean without breaking the bank.
A dirty air filter has layers of dirt and debris that prevent incoming air from passing easily. Check the right filter type for your system, the air quality inside your home, the prices and the schedule of filter changes you can follow. Now that you know the differences between pleated and non-pleated air filters, it's time to choose the one that's right for you. If you are in an environment where there are smaller particles making their way through the air, then you should opt for pleated air filters. If you're looking for an air filter option that's cheaper for your pocket but still gets the job done go for a crease-free option. Whether you choose a pleated or non-pleated filter remember that the filter is the place to go for all your HVAC unit maintenance needs.
