Jul. 21, 2025
Air filters play a vital role in eliminating airborne contaminants such as particles, pollutants, and microorganisms, all of which can pose significant health hazards and damage the environment. Within industrial settings, these filters are crucial for preserving the quality of products and materials, safeguarding important equipment, and minimizing product wastage.
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Cleanrooms utilize a combination of high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, which are nearly 100 times more effective than standard furnace filters, along with strategies for managing airflow to keep particle levels within permissible limits. Exhaust and stack gases are filtered and purified before being discharged into the environment. Air filters find applications in residential furnaces, corporate offices, laboratories, medical facilities, advanced microelectronics manufacturing, chip and hard-drive fabrication, and the aerospace sector.
Air filters adeptly capture a variety of contaminants present in the air, including dust, dirt, smoke, aerosols, odors, viruses, molds, bacteria, and toxic gases. These pollutants can exacerbate respiratory issues, skin conditions, allergies, and various other health problems.
Air filters function by drawing in contaminated air, directing it through the filter medium that contains minute openings. Particles larger than these openings are captured and held by the filter, effectively reducing their concentration in the air stream. Over time, the filter's efficiency improves as the accumulation of particles on the filter’s upstream side facilitates the capture of additional contaminants. To ensure optimal operation and prevent airflow obstruction due to clogging or blinding, it is essential to replace or clean the filter medium regularly.
Filter media are the core component of air filters, responsible for capturing and removing unwanted airborne particles from circulation within residential, commercial, and industrial environments. These essential filtration materials play a crucial role in improving indoor air quality, reducing airborne contaminants, and safeguarding HVAC systems. Typically, filter media consist of synthetic fibers, meshes, or various engineered substances designed with fine or microscopic perforations that enable effective filtration. The selected media are held within a frame or cartridge that is integrated into HVAC units, air purifiers, commercial ventilation, cleanrooms, or other air filtration systems.
Air filter media are generally classified into two broad categories: pleated air filters and non-pleated air filters, each with unique filtration performance characteristics and applications.
Pleated air filters feature characteristic folds or pleats that dramatically increase the surface area available for filtration. This expanded surface area enhances dust holding capacity and filtration efficiency while prolonging the filter's service life. Pleated filters are housed in a rigid frame or filter cartridge, maintaining their pleated structure for optimal performance in residential, commercial, and industrial HVAC systems.
Thanks to their increased media area, pleated air filters are highly effective at capturing small and microscopic airborne contaminants. They deliver high MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) ratings—often ranging from MERV 8 to MERV 13 or higher—making them ideal for trapping fine particles such as dust mites, pet dander, smoke particles, pollen, mold spores, and other common allergens. As a result, pleated filters are preferred for environments where indoor air quality improvement and allergen control are critical, such as medical facilities, schools, offices, and homes with sensitive individuals.
Pleated filters are typically constructed from durable materials like synthetic fibers (polyester or polypropylene), electrostatically charged media, woven cotton, or reinforced paper. However, the dense structure of these materials can restrict airflow if the filter is not properly sized, causing HVAC systems or air filtration equipment to work harder, which may lead to increased energy consumption over time. While pleated air filters generally carry a higher upfront cost than non-pleated options, they offer longer replacement intervals and superior overall performance. HVAC system adjustments or retrofits may be necessary to accommodate pleated filter designs.
Non-pleated air filters, often referred to as flat panel filters or panel air filters, offer less overall filtration surface area but excel at handling higher air pressures and flow rates. Constructed from materials like woven fiberglass, expanded metal mesh, or electrostatic cotton, non-pleated filters provide a cost-effective solution for basic dust and debris removal in HVAC systems and air handlers.
These inexpensive air filters primarily target larger particulate matter such as dust, lint, fibers, hair, and insects, making them less effective for environments where high-efficiency filtration or allergen removal is required. As a result, non-pleated filters typically have lower MERV ratings (MERV 1-4), a shorter service life, and require more frequent cleaning or replacement to maintain peak airflow and prevent unnecessary strain on air handling equipment. For individuals with respiratory problems, asthma, or allergies, a non-pleated filter may not provide adequate particulate removal and enhanced indoor air quality.
The following materials are commonly used in the construction of air filter media. Manufacturers may engineer or combine these substances to maximize air filtration effectiveness while minimizing airflow resistance and pressure drop.
Paper is a widely used yet less durable, cost-effective filter media material. Formed by compressing interwoven wood pulp fibers, paper filters possess fine pores designed to trap small airborne particulates while allowing airflow. Pleating the paper increases both its filtering efficiency and structural strength, making it suitable for applications such as automotive engine intake air filters, furnace filters, and indoor air purifiers. Paper air filters strike a balance between affordability and performance, but they must be replaced regularly to ensure optimal indoor air quality and HVAC protection.
Foam air filters are engineered from open-cell polyurethane, polyether, or polyester foams, often formulated for specific filtration efficiency and durability. Their performance is measured by Pores Per Inch (PPI)—the density of open pores per inch—which impacts both airflow resistance and filtration capability. A higher PPI rating indicates finer filtration but lower airflow, while a lower PPI allows for increased airflow but reduced efficiency at capturing small particles.
Foam air filters excel in dirt holding capacity and depth filtration, making them ideal as pre-filters or for use in automotive intake systems and small engine applications. Foam filters are adept at capturing large airborne debris, dust, and contaminants. Oiling the foam further enhances particle retention, and most foam air filters are washable, reusable, and therefore an environmentally friendly option. Their resilience and ease of cleaning make them cost-effective for repeated use, especially in dusty or outdoor environments.
Activated carbon air filters, also known as charcoal filters, are specialized for gas-phase filtration and odor removal in air purification systems. Utilizing a highly porous form of activated carbon, these filters adsorb and neutralize harmful gases, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), smoke, sulfur dioxide, benzene, cooking fumes, pet odors, and other chemical contaminants. Activated carbon is produced from materials like coconut shells or coal, which are processed to increase their surface area, enhancing the filter's ability to capture gaseous pollutants.
These filters are a vital stage in air purifiers, commercial kitchens (within range hoods), bathroom exhausts, medical facilities, cleanrooms, and microwave ventilation systems, often used in combination with HEPA filters or aluminum mesh pre-filters. While not intended for particle filtration, carbon air filters are essential for improving overall air quality in environments sensitive to odors, fumes, and chemical pollutants.
Aluminum air filters are constructed from multiple layers of expanded or woven aluminum mesh, arranged in alternate patterns to maximize particle capture and retention. Designed for robustness, they are typically installed as pre-filters in multi-stage commercial and industrial air filtration systems to intercept larger debris, grease, and coolant mists before finer filters (such as HEPA or ULPA) handle microscopic particles.
Their corrosion-resistant, washable, and reusable design makes aluminum mesh filters ideal for repeated duty in high-temperature, high-moisture, or corrosive environments, including HVAC systems, commercial range hoods, welding facilities, and automotive applications. Alternatives to aluminum mesh include stainless steel and galvanized steel, which offer further options for specialized air pollution control needs.
Fiberglass air filters, often known as spun glass filters, are constructed using layered fiberglass fibers that provide a basic level of particle filtration. These low-cost filters offer minimal airflow resistance and are effective at capturing larger airborne particles like lint, dust, pollen, and hair. However, their ability to trap smaller, microscopic contaminants is limited, making them suitable for general use in residential HVAC applications where elevated filtration is not required.
Due to their lower MERV ratings (typically MERV 1-4), fiberglass filters require frequent replacement and regular maintenance. While they offer improved airflow and are inexpensive, environments with allergy or asthma sufferers, or those requiring stringent air quality standards, would benefit from upgrading to pleated, HEPA, or electrostatic filter options for enhanced protection against allergens and fine particulate matter.
Plastic air filters are fabricated from high-performance synthetic fibers such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMW-PE), polypropylene, polyester, and PTFE. These robust filters offer excellent chemical resistance, durability, and long service life. Many plastic filter designs incorporate electrostatically charged fibers for enhanced particle capture, making them suitable for applications where consistent filtration performance and easy maintenance are required.
Common in industrial, laboratory, and cleanroom environments, as well as moisture-prone or corrosive settings, plastic mesh filters combine effective particulate removal with the advantage of being washable and reusable. Their versatility makes them an attractive choice for sustainable air filtration solutions.
Understanding air filter efficiency is crucial for maintaining optimal indoor air quality and ensuring the effective operation of HVAC systems. Air filter performance is typically evaluated using several key ratings and metrics that help homeowners and facility managers select the most suitable filtration solution for their needs.
The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) is the primary industry standard scale used to assess how effectively air filters capture airborne contaminants, including dust, pollen, mold spores, pet dander, bacteria, and smoke particles. Covering a range of particle sizes from 0.3 to 10 microns in diameter, the MERV rating helps determine the filter’s ability to enhance indoor air quality and allows for performance comparisons between different types of HVAC filters. The MERV rating system, developed by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), is widely recognized and utilized in both residential and commercial settings.
A higher MERV rating signifies a greater capacity for trapping smaller particles, making it easier to remove fine pollutants from circulating air. As the rating increases, the filter can capture more allergens and particulate matter, helping to reduce respiratory irritants and create a cleaner environment. However, it's essential to note that filters with higher MERV ratings often feature a denser filter media, which can restrict airflow, reduce HVAC system efficiency, and result in higher energy consumption or strain on the equipment. Finding the right balance between filtration efficiency and airflow is crucial when selecting an air filter for your specific application.
The comprehensive MERV rating scale is detailed in the table below:
Filters with MERV ratings exceeding 16 are categorized as HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) or ULPA (Ultra-Low Penetration Air) filters, capable of removing at least 99.97% of airborne particles. These filters are essential in cleanrooms, hospitals, laboratories, and environments where the highest standards of air purity are necessary.
Arrestance is a performance indicator commonly applied to air filters with lower MERV ratings to gauge their efficiency, particularly in basic residential or light commercial settings. It reflects how effectively the filter captures larger airborne contaminants, such as household dust, hair, pet fur, lint, pollen, and dirt. Arrestance is especially relevant for coarse particle filters used in pre-filtration and HVAC pre-filter stages. A higher arrestance value corresponds to a greater ability to remove these larger particulates, supporting overall dust reduction in the indoor environment.
Dust holding capacity refers to the average volume of dust an air filter can retain before reaching its maximum allowed resistance. This metric is essential for evaluating filter lifespan and maintenance requirements under continuous airflow and particulate loading. Filters with a high dust holding capacity require less frequent replacement, reducing operational costs and supporting optimal HVAC performance. The measurement is typically conducted under strict laboratory conditions using standardized synthetic dust, following protocols set by ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 52.2.
Both arrestance and dust holding capacity are key measurements for air filters with MERV ratings between 1 and 4, and they help users understand their expected performance in environments with moderate particulate loads.
Dust spot efficiency assesses an air filter’s capability to remove visible airborne dust that contributes to staining or discoloration of ventilation system surfaces. By evaluating the reduction in light opacity or “dust spot staining” before and after filtration, this metric helps quantify a filter’s ability to improve overall indoor air quality and maintain cleaner ductwork. The dust spot efficiency test, previously outlined in the ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 52.1, preceded the current methods in ANSI/ASHRAE 52.2, and is still referenced when comparing legacy filter performance data.
The Most Penetrating Particle Size (MPPS) is the particle diameter that poses the greatest challenge for a filter— it is the size most likely to penetrate through the filter media. Recognizing the MPPS is particularly important when considering HEPA and ULPA filter selection, as optimal filter performance depends on the ability to efficiently capture particles at this critical size. Advanced air filters are specifically tested for MPPS to ensure compliance with stringent air cleanliness requirements in sensitive applications, such as pharmaceutical manufacturing, electronics production, and healthcare settings.
When selecting an air filter, consider factors like filter efficiency ratings (MERV or HEPA), arrestance, dust holding capacity, and compatibility with your HVAC system. Choosing the right air filtration solution helps ensure high indoor air quality, minimizes allergen infiltration, and maximizes the longevity and performance of your heating and cooling equipment. For more guidance on selecting air filtration products, consult with certified HVAC professionals or refer to standards published by ASHRAE and relevant regulatory bodies.
The following are the various types of air filter equipment:
Activated carbon air filters excel at eliminating gaseous pollutants, fumes, vapors, and odors from the air. They function by adsorbing these gaseous molecules onto the surface of the activated carbon. To achieve effective removal, the molecules must have sufficient time to interact with the carbon matrix.
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As standalone filters, they are not capable of capturing solid particles, so they are often used alongside HEPA or electrostatic filters to enhance overall air quality. The optimal replacement frequency for activated carbon filters is not well-defined, as they do not exhibit visible signs of saturation.
Air compressor filters, or airline filters, are installed in condensed airlines, which are used to remove water, solid particulates, oil, and other contaminants in a multi-stage filtration process. They prevent these contaminants and protect the internal components of the air compressor unit, ensuring the unit is in top condition.
Baghouse filters are designed to capture particulates and air pollutants, such as soot, ash dust, smoke, and toxic gases, from flue gases emitted by industrial processes like boilers, burners, and furnaces before these gases are released into the environment. The filters consist of multiple layers of pleated materials, including polymers, fabrics, or glass fibers, which are arranged in a frame and contained within a vessel. The captured particles accumulate in a hopper located at the bottom of the vessel. Baghouse filters are known for their high airflow capacity.
Cabin air filters are specialized HVAC filters used in vehicles. Typically constructed from multi-layered paper filter media, these filters ensure that the air entering the passenger compartment is clean and free from contaminants. They also help protect the vehicle’s air conditioning system by filtering particulates from the air before it reaches the air conditioner. Cabin air filters generally have different replacement intervals compared to engine air filters.
Car exhaust filters are installed directly in the exhaust pipes of vehicles to capture fine, harmful particles from engine emissions, thereby reducing atmospheric pollution. However, these filters are not designed to capture toxic gases such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide.
A Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is a specialized exhaust filter designed for diesel engines. It features filter media made from ceramic material arranged in a honeycomb structure, which captures soot, ash, and other particulates.
DPFs are equipped with an oxidative catalytic converter that transforms the carbon in the collected soot into carbon dioxide through passive or active regeneration processes. These regeneration methods can occur automatically without driver intervention, making DPFs self-cleaning to some extent. Nonetheless, regular maintenance is still required to ensure optimal performance.
Engine air filters are typically rectangular and pleated, designed to trap particulates from the air before it enters the engine. By preventing solid particles from entering the engine, these filters help avoid wear and damage to internal components, reduce fuel consumption, and maintain engine efficiency.
Engine air filters generally need to be replaced every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, depending on the vehicle type and driving conditions. A buildup of debris in the filter can restrict airflow, impair acceleration, and lead to increased emissions of harmful gases.
Exhaust filters are installed in ventilation systems to filter the air from a closed space before releasing it to the environment.
Exhaust hood filters, also known as grease filters, are used in kitchen hoods to capture grease, oil, smoke, and odors generated during cooking. Typically constructed from metal filter media, these filters are installed above stoves, grills, and fryers to maintain air quality in the kitchen.
HEPA stands for High-Efficiency Particulate Air. To qualify as a true HEPA filter, as specified by MIL-STD-282, the filter must capture at least 99.97% of airborne particles that are 0.3 microns in diameter. According to European and ISO standards, specifically ISO and EN , the required efficiency is 99.95%. Filters with efficiencies ranging from 85% to 99.95% are classified as EPA filters.
HEPA filters typically use media composed of multiple layers of borosilicate glass fibers or polypropylene fibers arranged in a random, web-like pattern to enhance particulate capture. These filters employ a combination of mechanisms to trap particulates, including:
HEPA filters are crucial for protecting user health as they efficiently capture microorganisms, allergens, odors, irritants, and smoke that could potentially cause illness. They are extensively utilized in settings such as hospitals, clinics, cleanrooms, and chemical manufacturing facilities.
HVAC filters prevent particulates (e.g., dust, dirt, debris) and other contaminants in the air from entering the internal components of the HVAC system. These solid particles can damage and deteriorate the efficiency of the HVAC system. HVAC filters also improve the circulating air quality inside a room or facility. AC filters and furnace filters are types of HVAC filters and basically have the same design and construction.
Given that HVAC filters rely on proper airflow for effective operation, it is advisable to use furnace filters with a MERV rating below 13 for residential settings to ensure optimal performance and prevent airflow restrictions.
In an ionizer air filter, air first passes through a pre-filter before reaching the ionizer, which charges airborne particles electrically. These charged particles are then attracted to and captured by plates with an opposite charge. This type of filter does not use traditional filter media. Ionizer air filters are often called electrostatic air filters.
Ionizer air filters typically have a MERV rating between 4 and 5. They are cost-effective and have a long lifespan but require regular maintenance to ensure proper airflow. However, they may not be ideal for individuals with respiratory issues, as the electric field they generate can produce ozone, which may exacerbate asthma and other lung conditions.
Ultra-low particulate air (ULPA) filters can remove even smaller particles in the air, down to 0.12 microns in diameter with at least 99.99% efficiency. ULPA and HEPA filters have the same working mechanism; however, ULPA filters have lower filter medium porosity. Hence, their greater filter media density reduces airflow; this results in higher energy consumption than HEPA filters. Moreover, they have a shorter service life and are more expensive.
UV air filters use intense short-wave ultraviolet light to destroy the DNA of bacteria, viruses, molds, and other pathogens, effectively neutralizing them. However, when used alone, they cannot capture solid particulates or gaseous pollutants. To enhance overall air quality, UV filters are often combined with HEPA filters, similar to how activated carbon filters are used.
Washable electrostatic air filters rely on an electrostatic filter media, which is typically made from woven polypropylene or polyester. Airborne particles encounter friction as it passes through the filter media. They eventually become charged and are attracted to the inner layers of the filter media. The filter media holds the particles by static electricity until it is washed to remove those particles. Its electrostatic property remains constant over time and is not affected by washing.
Washable electrostatic air filters typically have a MERV rating between 6 and 8. They are a safe choice as they do not produce ozone. These filters are cost-effective, durable, and offer a long service life.
When it comes to your home's air filter, there are a few main options: fiberglass and pleated air filters. You may not think about them often, but these two types of filtration products can have big impacts on your overall indoor air quality and even energy bills.
So how do you decide which one is best suited for your particular space? The answer really depends on certain factors like the size of your home and the type of airborne particles that need to be filtered out.
In this article, we'll take an in-depth look at both fiberglass and pleated air filters to better understand their individual benefits so you can make an informed decision when it comes time to replace yours.
Air filters are an essential part of air conditioning, air purification, and air ventilation systems. They trap dust, dirt, and other airborne particles to ensure air circulating throughout our homes and businesses is as healthy and clean as possible. Fiberglass air filters and pleated air filters are two common types of air filters designed to keep the air we breathe clean. Fiberglass air filters are relatively inexpensive but should be replaced often for optimal filtration efficiency. Conversely, pleated air filters use finely woven media that typically provides better filtration than fiberglass air filters, but can often be more costly to regularly maintain. Ultimately it's important to research the options available so that you can make an informed decision about which type of air filter is most appropriate for your particular needs; whatever type you choose its efficiency in trapping pollutants is worth its weight in gold!
Fiberglass air filters are generally made from spun-fiberglass fibers that form a mesh-like structure. This makes them an excellent option for trapping large particles in the air. However, they are less effective at trapping small particles like dust mites or pet dander.
On the other hand, pleated air filters are made from tightly woven paper or synthetic materials that can trap even the smallest airborne particles. As such, pleated air filters typically like 18x20x1 air filter provide a higher level of filtration than fiberglass filters.
Fiberglass and pleated air filters have their advantages regarding construction materials. Fiberglass panel filters are manufactured with stiff glass fibers, making them particularly resilient to block virtually any particles they come in contact with that have a minimum size of 0.3 microns. On the contrary, pleated air filters tend to absorb high volumes of moisture, protecting your duct system from biological contaminants and capturing small amounts of dust from entering the airflow itself.
Fiberglass is lightweight and inexpensive, making it an attractive choice for those on a budget who don't require high levels of filtration. Pleated air filters are more expensive but offer superior filtration levels thanks to their tighter weave design.
Regarding efficiency, both types of filters can do an excellent job if they are maintained properly. However, pleated air filters tend to be more efficient because they can trap smaller particles than fiberglass filters can. They also last longer since they don't need to be replaced as frequently as fiberglass filters due to their tighter weave design.
As mentioned above, fiberglass air filters are typically much cheaper than pleated ones due to their lower cost of production and simpler design. However, pleated air filters will last longer, so you won't need to replace them as often—which means they may end up being cheaper in the long run due to reduced replacement costs.
Both types of air filters require regular maintenance to stay clean and function properly. With fiberglass air filters, you should change them every 30 days or so, depending on the amount of use your HVAC system gets; with pleated ones, you may be able to go up more than three months before needing a new one since they tend to hold up better over time due to their tighter weave design which prevents dust from getting trapped inside the air filter itself over time like what happens with fiberglass ones.
Both fiberglass and pleated air filters have pros and cons regarding quality, material, efficiency, cost, and maintenance. Ultimately, the best option for your home depends on your individual needs and budget.
If you're looking for maximum efficiency at an affordable price, then a pleated 18x20x1 air filter offers excellent value. For those on a tight budget, however, fiberglass filters may be the way forward. Whichever type you choose, keep up with regular maintenance, so your filter keeps working effectively.
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