Benefits and Drawbacks of Electrostatic Air Filters

Your HVAC air filter is important because it cleans the dirty, outdoor air that gets into your home. There are three major types of air filters to choose from — pleated, HEPA, and electrostatic. The first two are great for capturing very small particles, making them a safe choice for people with allergies and asthma. But if you want a cost-effective, time-saving, and hassle-free option, an electrostatic filter might be the right choice for you.

Choosing an electrostatic air filter is a matter of personal preference. But to help you make an informed decision, trusted residential and commercial HVAC contractor Perfect Degree HVAC has outlined some of its pros and cons below.

Benefits

Cost-Effective

Electrostatic air filters are washable and reusable. They may cost more than other filters, but it’s only a one-time expense because you can use them repeatedly until you replace your actual HVAC system.

High Efficiency

Electrostatic air filters have MERV (Minimum Efficient Rating Value) ratings of around 5 or 6 depending on the brand, which means they can capture larger particles.

Outstanding Air Filtration

These filters excellently purify the air that your HVAC system releases. The result is improved air quality throughout your home.

Drawbacks

Monthly Maintenance

For continued efficiency, these filters must be removed and cleaned monthly. Otherwise, they can cause allergens and dirt to circulate in the air and clog your HVAC system. To solve this, get a cooling and heating maintenance package from a local contractor.

Release of Harmful Particles

Unlike HEPA and pleated air filters, electrostatic filters cannot block pathogens. They may release larger particles into the air, so they may not be ideal for people with respiratory diseases.

Insufficient Air Flow 

If these filters are not cleaned regularly, they can hurt HVAC airflow. When a filter is not clean, it allows more dirt into the other parts of the system and your home.

At Perfect Degree HVAC, we’ll help you find the right filter for your heating and cooling systems. We also have the expertise to provide a wide range of HVAC solutions to meet your varying concerns. For consultations or inquiries on HVAC maintenance contracts, give us a call at (610) 529-7372 or fill out our contact form.