Air Filters

No matter if you run a restaurant, manage a retail store, or own a warehouse, indoor air quality is crucial. It affects your staff, customers, and even your HVAC system’s lifespan. Although various factors contribute to your air quality, one of the most important is your air filters. 

Your filters capture mold spores, bacteria, dust, pollen, dander, viruses, and other pollutants. This way, they don’t circulate in your building. 

Also, if you don’t maintain HVAC systems, filters and duct linings can get dirty. This dirt can harm your system’s efficiency and lifespan.

Different Types of Air Filters

When it comes to choosing the right air filter for your commercial HVAC system, you have several options. The most common types include fiberglass, pleated, and HEPA filters.

• Fiberglass filters: The most affordable but also the least effective at capturing pollutants.
• Pleated filters: Offer a good balance of affordability and effectiveness, while HEPA filters are the most efficient but also the most expensive.
• HEPA Filters: Capture at least 99.97% of airborne particles, including bacteria, viruses, and allergens.

These are less commonly used filters:

• Activated Carbon Filters: Absorb harmful gases and odors, improving indoor air quality.
• Mechanical Filters: Trap particles in a filter media as air passes through.
• Biochemical Filters: Use chemical reactions to remove harmful gases from the air.
• UV Filters: Use short-wave ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and viruses.
• Electrostatic Filters: Create static that acts as a magnet for dust and other airborne particles.

How often should you change your air filter?

How often you replace your air filters comes down to the type of filter you use. Generally, air filters should be replaced about every 30 days or every 6 months. Check with your HVAC manufacturer to be certain. An HVAC technician will also be able to inspect your unit and answer any questions you may have.

What happens if you never change your air filter?

Not changing your air filter can really harm your HVAC system and your indoor air quality. When the filter gets clogged with pollutants, your system works harder to push air through. This causes more wear and tear, which reduces efficiency. This can also result in higher energy bills, more frequent repairs, premature system failure, and health issues for your staff and customers.

Can I change an air filter myself?

In some cases, changing your air filter is a simple process that you can do yourself. But be sure to look at your HVAC manual or ask a professional to help you find the right filter size and type. Improperly sized or installed filters can lead to decreased efficiency and even damage to your system.

Can I just clean my air filter instead of replacing it?

While it may be tempting to simply clean your air filter instead of replacing it, this is generally not recommended. Most disposable filters should be replaced, not cleaned. Trying to clean them can harm the filter material and lower how well they work.

Air Filter Services

Air filters are crucial for boosting air quality. They trap pollen, dander, bacteria, viruses, and other pollutants. If you’re in need of a new air filter or air purifier for your space, contact Vanport Mechanical & Fire Sprinklers Inc. right away. We specialize in HVAC equipment for businesses and homes in Vancouver WA and the Portland OR Metro Area.

Just give us a call or fill out our contact form here.