Types of Air Filters: Which One Does Your Facility Need?
- Anne Lee
- 7 Mar 2023
- 3 menit membaca
Diperbarui: 23 Jul
There are numerous types of air filtration tools, which are devices that filter the air by removing debris like dust and dirt. The air filtration industry has undergone a number of alterations in the last ten years.
Manufacturers have created new products that improve indoor air quality while lowering the expense of installing and operating air-filtration systems in commercial and institutional buildings (IAQ).
In addition to technological advancements, industry organisations are adopting standards, guidelines, and specifications that promote healthy IAQ.
There is ongoing discussion about how IAQ affects building occupants, including whether occupant productivity and overall health increase with better air quality.
As they continue to focus on IAQ and its impact on their facilities and occupants, manufacturers are providing maintenance and engineering managers with more effective HVAC systems and components, including air filter systems.
These technical developments also include improved filter efficiency and smaller fans and motors due to the reduced pressure drop across the filters.
Types of Filters
The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) introduced IAQ standards, which resulted in a major change in the air-filtration industry.
ASHRAE has been promoting the use of the minimal efficiency reporting value (MERV) method to standardise efficiency definitions.
MERV measures a filter's arrestance, or its ability to capture large airborne particles, and dust-spot efficiency, or its ability to capture small airborne particles, and then assigns a number based on the filter's ability to do so.
The following air filters are frequently found in business HVAC systems:
1. Fiberglass filter
This throwaway air filter is the most common type. Fiberglass layers are stacked on top of one another to create the filter material. Typically, a metal grating that serves as support and shields the fibreglass from failure and disintegration reinforces the material.
📌 Best for: Residential or light-duty commercial use
Made of layered fiberglass fibers
Low cost, disposable
MERV rating: 1–4
Minimal filtration for smaller particles
2. Polyester and pleated filters
These filters are comparable to fibreglass filters, but they typically offer superior dust-stopping and airflow resistance.
📌 Best for: Offices, retail, and general HVAC systems
Made from polyester or cotton folds
Improved surface area for dust collection
MERV rating: 5–13
Balance of efficiency and affordability
3. HEPA Filters (High-Efficiency Particulate Air)
The air that travels through these machines is filtered on a very fine scale. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and its contractors use HEPA filters that conform to DOE standard STD-3020-97, Specification for HEPA Filters Used by DOE Contractors, to filter 99.97% of all particles measuring 0.3 microns or larger.
📌 Best for: Hospitals, cleanrooms, laboratories
Captures 99.97% of particles ≥0.3 microns
MERV rating: 17–20 (exceeds standard commercial needs)
Higher airflow resistance – not suitable for all HVAC systems
4. Activated Carbon Filters
📌 Best for: Odour control, chemical fumes, VOCs
Uses activated carbon granules to absorb gases
Often used in combination with other filters
Common in healthcare, hospitality, manufacturing
5. Electrostatic Filters
📌 Best for: Residential and light commercial applications
Self-charging fibers attract particles like a magnet
Washable and reusable options available
MERV rating: varies, typically mid-range
6. UV Light Filters (Supplemental)
📌 Best for: HVAC disinfection (not particle filtration)
Kills bacteria, mold, and viruses
Often used in healthcare or humid environments
Works best as an add-on to physical filters
Washable air filters
These less popular goods rely on the buildup of dust along the cloth to improve the filter's efficiency. Applications frequently involve commercial activities that generate a lot of coarse grit.
Filter Comparison Table
How to Choose the Right Air Filter
Consider the required air quality (e.g. allergy control, cleanroom standards)
Know your HVAC system’s MERV compatibility
Determine if you need particulate + odour removal
Evaluate cost of replacement or cleaning
In Summary
There hasn't been much progress made to address the problems associated with air pressure drop and how it affects energy efficiency because filters are essentially just porous membranes that let air flow through them.
Find out more about Air Filters from us! Feel free to get in touch with our friendly consultants and know more about us.
📞 Need Help Selecting the Right Filter?
Contact TCW Group today to ensure your facility’s air is clean, safe, and compliant.