An incredibly important part of your HVAC system, air filters protect your heating and cooling equipment and help you maintain healthy indoor air quality. We see a lot of homeowners in the De Pere, WI area use reusable filters. Is this your best option? Is there something better available? Let’s talk about the filters you can use to remove dust, pollen, mold spores, pet dander, and more.
What Is a Reusable Filter?
A reusable air filter can be washed and replaced in your HVAC system once it has dried. This is different from the replaceable versions that are thrown out after 30 to 90 days or so. Reusable filters are typically made from polypropylene material, which attracts particles through electrostatic charging. The particles will cling to the filter until you remove it and clean the particles away. However, leaving a dirty filter in your HVAC system can result in some particles falling off the filter and passing back into your ductwork and living spaces. A dirty filter also forces your HVAC system to work harder to push air through it, which can increase your energy costs. This also stresses out the system, increasing the likelihood of needing an HVAC repair technician to fix something.
The cost of a reusable filter tends to be higher than a throw-away version. This is because of the upgraded materials and the fact that you keep them for several years. It’s important to note these filters still require maintenance. You don’t install them and forget them. You should be cleaning your reusable filter at the same frequency you would a replaceable model.
How Does a Reusable Filter Work?
Reusable filters work similarly to their replaceable counterparts. As air passes through your filter while your HVAC system is running, paper, mesh, or some other material will stop particulates from passing through. This helps prevent allergens and irritants from circulating into your indoor air. It also protects debris from settling on the interior components of your furnace and air conditioner. If this accumulation were to occur, it could result in frequent and expensive furnace repairs. It can even shorten the lifespan of your equipment.
The Basics of Cleaning a Reusable Filter
Before you attempt to clean your reusable filter, make sure that you refer to the instructions provided with the filter. The process can vary a bit from one filter type to another. Make sure that your HVAC system is powered off. Then you can remove the filter.
Wash your filter using warm water or a low-pressure hose. If there is any debris that isn’t coming off the filter, you’ll want to use a soft cloth or brush to agitate it. Your filter is delicate, so be careful not to damage the material.
Always allow the filter to dry completely before you put it back into your HVAC system. Introducing any moisture into your system can result in mold growth or damage to the interior components of your system.
The Life Expectancy of a Reusable Air Filter
While these filters must be cleaned periodically, their actual life expectancy is anywhere from 5 to 10 years. They may not last very long if you’re vigorously cleaning them. If you take your time and are gentle with the filter, you could have the same one for a decade. If you notice your filter showing signs of wear, such as holes or tears in the material, it might be time to start shopping for a new one.
Who Should Avoid Reusable Filters?
While reusable filters can provide several benefits, they’re not for everyone. If you or someone in your household is extremely sensitive to allergens and particulate matter, then it might be a better choice to replace your filter entirely. This will ensure a completely clean filter free of any residual contaminants.
If you don’t have it in your budget to invest in these reusable filters upfront, they may not be an accessible option.
A lot of reusable filters have a very low MERV rating. This means that they don’t do a great job of trapping all the particulates passing through your HVAC system. If you are paying close attention to your indoor air quality, consider a higher-rated MERV filter that is compatible with your current heating and cooling equipment.
If volatile organic compounds in your indoor air concern you, most reusable filters aren’t effective at removing them. You’re better off investing in a replaceable filter featuring activated carbon filtration.
Reducing Your Environmental Impact
If every home in the country replaces its HVAC filter every 30 to 90 days, all those discarded filters will end up in landfills. These filters can negatively affect the environment. Reusable filters can help reduce this impact. They are also often made from more sustainable materials, reducing your carbon footprint.
Rare Filter Sizes
If you have a filter that isn’t a typical size, it may be hard to find replaceable units every couple of months. An average HVAC filter is approximately 20″ x 20″ x 1″. However, some models have very different filter sizes and requirements. Rather than stockpiling a bunch of uniquely sized filters you may not use, one replaceable model is all you need to invest in for the time being. You can focus on maintaining your existing filter rather than searching up non-standard filters every month or two.
Focusing on Your Long-Term Budget
While the initial investment of a reusable filter is higher than a replaceable model, you don’t have to budget for filters in the future. Most replaceable filters cost anywhere from $20 to $50. When you add this cost up over one year, it’s a substantial investment. You’ll also save some time by not having to stop at the store or order filters online if you already have what you need.
Other Ways to Care for Your System
Air filters are just one way that you can protect the integrity and reliability of your HVAC system. We recommend that you schedule annual maintenance so we can inspect and service your heating and cooling equipment as needed. Minor repairs caught early can save you a major headache later. By cleaning and repairing the interior of your system and its various components, we can help ensure the maximum life span of your equipment as well. Other maintenance tasks include checking and filling refrigerant levels in your AC unit, having your ductwork inspected for damage, having your ductwork cleaned, and lubricating interior components.
If you would like to learn more about using a reusable filter in your HVAC system, reach out to the team here at Healthy Home Heating & Cooling LLC. In addition to HVAC maintenance needs, we also install and repair different types of heating and cooling equipment. Our services include duct cleaning, ductless systems, heat pumps, whole-house fans, and more. We offer 24/7 emergency service when something is going wrong with your HVAC system.
Contact Healthy Home Heating & Cooling LLC to schedule an appointment in the De Pere area today.
