Media vs. Electronic Air Filters/cleaners
Optimizing your furnace for your family is not just about running efficiently. The quality of air your family is breathing in is very important. Many people have asked “what is the difference between media and electronic air filters?” and “What is best for my family?” Here is a quick snap shot at how these two systems work and why you would want to go with one over the other.
Media Air Filters
- Generally uses fabric filters that can be disposed of and replaced in order to trap particles in order to purify the air in your home.
- As air flows through your filter, large particles are picked up by the fabric/material and smaller particles are attracted to the fibers in the material rather than the air.
- There are a wide variety of media filters that have different efficiencies, fabrics/materials and styles.
- A good quality media filter can assist with tackling minor allergy issues
- Less maintenance than that of an electronic air filter is needed
- Change filter on an annual basis
- No ongoing maintenance or operating costs other than filter replacements in some models.
Electronic Air Filters
- Also known as ionizers or electrostatic precipitators.
- Uses electricity to remove particles from the air that is in your home. High Voltage power causes particles and pollutants to become positively charged and collected onto fin type slots and stay here until the collector is washed.
- Once slightly dirty, it loses its efficiency.
- To be cleaned on a regular basis 3-5 times a year
- Best if you have serious allergy conditions
- Releases small amounts of ozone that can, over a long period of time, cause respiratory issues in those who are sensitive to it.
Although you can get some air cleaners that use a combination of both methods and also may declare that ozone is not released, you may find that one benefits your needs over the other. If anyone in your family has allergies, and little to no reaction to small traces of ozone and you have the ability to clean it on a regular basis, an electronic air filter may be the best choice for you. On the other hand if you find you may be too busy or not able to clean it as often, and your family does not suffer allergies, you may be good using a media air filter. Now that you hopefully have a better understanding of the differences, you can have a more educated chat with your local Barrie heating and cooling specialist to help you make the write decision.