The HVAC industry continues to develop evermore efficient equipment that’s capable of delivering a higher level of comfort in homes. Another goal of the industry that’s emerged in recent years is improving indoor air quality, and that means focusing on filter technology.
What Air Filters Do
Your HVAC air filter is one of the most important parts of your HVAC system. Its main purpose is to keep your equipment clean. Less dirt in the system parts means your system performs better, without friction that can make it work hotter and harder. A good-quality, pleated filter can also help keep your air cleaner, removing airborne pollutants such as pet dander, pollen, and dust mites.
Most homeowners are familiar with mechanical filters made of fiberglass or polyester. Another increasingly popular type of filter is the electrostatic filter, which attracts particles with an electrostatic charge when the return air goes through the system. The particles are collected on a plate, which must be cleaned periodically, but the filter can be used for several years. Disposable electrostatic filters are also available. One concern about some electrostatic-filter technology is that it releases harmful ozone.
In addition, there are gas-phase filters that remove odors and gasses such as tobacco smoke and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) through activated charcoal technology and ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) lights that use UV light to treat mold, mildew, and fungus spores.
Improving Filter Technology
Some manufacturers of air purifiers have combined aspects of the electrostatic-filter technology and super-dense HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters to get better results from the air-purification systems. These may be of particular interest to individuals who suffer from allergies or have other respiratory issues that require them to pay more attention to indoor air quality. Some of these purifiers reportedly have found ways to reduce the amount of ozone released during the electrostatic-filter process.
Still other filter technology is making use of a process called photocatalytic oxidation, or PCO, which is designed to convert gases and particles into safer compounds.
Want to learn more about filter technology? Contact Ace Hardware Home Services of Dayton.
