When it comes to air filters, homeowners have a choice between reusable and disposable options. Reusable filters are often seen as the more environmentally friendly option, as they can last up to 10 years or longer. But are they really the best choice? Let's take a look at the pros and cons of reusable and disposable air filters to help you decide which one is right for you. One of the main advantages of reusable air filters is that they are more eco-friendly. These filters can last for up to 10 years, and some manufacturers even claim that they can outlive your HVAC system.
However, while reusable filters are good at trapping large particles such as dust, they are not as effective at filtering out smaller particles like pet dander, bacteria, viruses, or smoke. Reusable filters also require more maintenance than disposable ones. They should be cleaned once a month and completely dried before being refitted. If you have pets, an electrostatic filter may not be able to remove as much pet dander as you'd like.
This is why some people who use reusable filters have a second filter on hand to insert while the other is being cleaned and dried. Particles that remain lodged in the filter can slow down the essential airflow of the HVAC system over time, leading to costly problems. Disposable air filters are less expensive than reusable ones and should be replaced every one to three months. They are also more effective at trapping smaller particles like pet dander, bacteria, viruses, and smoke. However, disposable filters can be less efficient when it comes to trapping large particles like dust.
At Star Heating and Cooling, we believe that there are more negatives to using washable oven filters than benefits. The air filter you choose has a direct impact on the performance of your HVAC system, as it is responsible for trapping all kinds of particles in the air that can harm your health and expensive system components. A filter with a very high MERV rating will be very dense, and a dense air filter means that your HVAC equipment will work harder to draw air through the filter. If you don't have the patience to keep up with the maintenance of a reusable filter, it may not be the best option for you. Even if you clean a washable filter every month, it will eventually start to become clogged with debris.
Therefore, when deciding between reusable and disposable air filters, consider your budget, lifestyle, and environmental impact.
