Do You Know How Electrostatic Air Filters Work?

March 15, 2017

You care about the quality of your Greenville, North Carolina, home’s air. If you’ve been considering washable electrostatic air filters for your HVAC system, you need to know a few things about how they work and how well they filter particulates. Though an electrostatic air filter is better than no filter, it might not be the best option for your IAQ needs.

Static Traps Particles

Electrostatic filters have several layers of material through which the air passes when your air handler turns on. Friction as the air passes through the first layer creates static electricity. The particulates in your air become positively charged, and then as they pass through the remaining layers of filter they cling to the material and don’t enter your duct system.

Only Some Particles Stick to the Filter

Electrostatic sounds like a great idea, and it is for certain-sized particles. Unfortunately, tiny particles like mold spores usually pass through the electrostatic air filter and into your system. These particles flow through your ducts and affect your IAQ. They also pass across the components of your air handler, like the coils, and sometimes stick there instead. The dirtier the inside of your air handler is, the quicker it’s going to wear out.

Electrostatic Is Good in Tandem

Washable filters are electrostatic, and they aren’t as effective as more tightly woven filters. However, these days you can get disposable filters with high MERV ratings and an electrostatic component for added protection. While we don’t recommend electrostatic alone as the best way to filter your air, it’s a handy component in tandem with other filtration techniques.

Always remember to replace your air filter regularly, at least every month or two. Give J & J Mechanical, Inc. a call at (855) 800-1341 if you think debris has been escaping your air filter and collecting inside your air handler. While our technicians are there, have a chat about the air filters best for your system and your IAQ needs.

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