How good are electrostatic air filters?

Category: home and garden indoor environmental quality
4.5/5 (84 Views . 10 Votes)
If you've been looking for a filter to replace your disposable one, this electrostatic washable air filter is the one to go for. With a MERV rating of 11, this is no doubt a good choice. Not only are they washable and highly durable, but they can also trap up to ten times the amount of dust that throwaway filters can.



Herein, what is electrostatic air filter?

Electrostatic air filters, also known as washable filters or reusable filters, are located on a furnace and typically take the place of a pleated filter. The extra electrostatic charged particles drive the dirty particles towards the collector, trapping the dirty particles inside.

Secondly, are electronic air cleaners worth it? When springtime hits, your indoor air quality can actually be worse than that of outdoors. In fact, that filter is meant to protect the inside components of your system, not your indoor air. That's not to say that it has no effect on your indoor air.

In this regard, how long do electrostatic filters last?

Most washable filters last for at least ten years so you should be just fine if you plan accordingly and take gentle care of your washable filter when you wash it. Most washable electrostatic furnace filters come with a Lifetime Warranty against manufacturing defects.

Are electrostatic furnace filters better?

Disposable electrostatic filters typically have a higher MERV rating making them a good choice for individuals with children, pets, and smokers. Electrostatic Filters vs High-Efficiency Pleated Filters - If your furnace is capable of using a high-efficiency pleated filter, these are an excellent choice.

29 Related Question Answers Found

Which air filter is best?

So here is my list of The 10 Best Furnace Filters.
  • AIRx Health 1" MERV 13 Furnace Filters.
  • Honeywell FC100A1037 Ultra Efficiency 4" Furnace Filters.
  • Nordic Pure 4" Furnace Filters.
  • FilterBuy 1" Furnace Filters.
  • AIRx ALLERGY 1" Furnace Filters.
  • Filtrete Micro Allergen 4" Furnace Filters.
  • X6673 Lennox 4" Furnace Filters.

How often should you clean electronic air filters?

The pre-filter and collection cells of an electronic air cleaner should be cleaned at least two or three times per year. Check the filter every 3 to 4 weeks. Replace your filter when necessary, or clean it if you have the reusable type. Reusable filters, should be completely dry before they are re-installed.

Are electrostatic filters safe?

For those people that are unfamiliar with the electrostatic air filter, an electrostatic air filter is a filter that cleans the air by the use of static electricity. This static electricity occurs naturally and is 100% safe for your household.

Can you reuse AC filters?


That one can be reused time and time again. Air filters that work with your home's air conditioning system are the same way. There are some filters designed for only one use (although “one use” is about a month). Others can be used time and over and over—as long as you keep them clean.

Are expensive AC filters worth it?

More expensive filters like Pleated Residential filters filter out dust mites, pollen, mold and pet dander and even bacteria and so are worth the money especially for those with severe allergies. HEPA filters filter bacteria and viruses and are worth the extra money for those with respiratory conditions like emphysema.

What is the best washable air filter?

K&N MERV 11 Pleated Washable Furnace Filter
The K&N Washable Filter is a great choice for your home to catch dust, debris, and allergens. This filter is rated at MERV 11 and made by a leading auto parts manufacturer --- so you can expect high quality.

Are washable air filters worth it?

Washable air filters have lower MERV, or Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, ratings than disposable filters, so they're not as effective. This means they can't trap small particles such as bacteria, viruses, or pet dander.

Which way should air filter face?

On your new air filter, find the arrow that indicates the proper air flow direction. This tends to confuse everyone more than anything else. That arrow must always face toward the furnace and away from the return duct that carries the air in need of heating or cooling.

How do you clean a reusable air filter?


First, you need to safely get the filter out of the AC unit. Rinse it in a sink or tub with water. You can use a gentle brush and mild detergent to wash off sticky particles. Once that's done, shake the excess water so it drains out of the drain holes in the frame, and reinstall the air filter back into the system.

Can I vacuum my furnace filter?

Vacuuming your filter is a healthier alternative, but it's possible you could tear or rip your filter during the process. Also, a vacuumed filter can release dust and other toxins into the ductwork of your furnace unit when re-installed.

How do you clean a reusable furnace filter?

Follow these steps to clean your reusable furnace filter:
  1. Turn off the furnace.
  2. Locate the service panel and remove the cover.
  3. Find the furnace filter.
  4. Once you've removed the filter, rinse it with water to clean it.
  5. Allow the filter to dry completely.

Do cheap furnace filters work?

Cheap fiberglass filters are designed to stop dust, debris and hair from gunking up the system. While they do little to filter out allergens and other irritants, using them keeps your HVAC system clean and efficient. They can add more resistance to airflow, which makes the system more expensive to operate.

Do I need air purifier if I have AC?

If you have an AC, you don't need an air purifier:
Air conditioning has got nothing to do with air purification as it is ineffective against dust and pollen. Rooms with AC need air purifiers more than other rooms, as the same air keeps circulating and can only be purified through an air purifier.

Does HVAC purify air?


An HVAC air purifier = fresh air
Central air purification systems, which are installed in your ductwork, remove dust, mold, bacteria and viruses from the air circulated throughout your space by your HVAC system.

What is the best electronic air cleaner?

  • Top 6 Whole House Air Purifiers Reviewed.
  • GT3000 Professional-Grade Whole House Ionic Air Purifier.
  • GT1500 Professional-Grade Whole House Junior Ionic Air Purifier.
  • Aprilaire 5000 Whole House Air Purifier.
  • Honeywell F300E1019 Electronic Whole-House Air Cleaner.
  • Aprilaire 2410 Whole-Home Air Cleaner.

How much does an electronic air cleaner cost?

Cost of Electronic Air Cleaning Systems
Electronic Air Cleaning Systems Costs Zip Code
Basic Best
Electronic Air Cleaning Systems – Total $510.00 - $730.00 $1179.00 - $1209.00
Electronic Air Cleaning Systems – Total Average Cost per Unit $620.00 $1194.00