New technology is developed every single day, and our lives become more sophisticated as a result. We use more and more gadgets and machinery in our everyday lives. This can be really good for our comfort, but bad for the environment and our health. This applies not least in the area of air quality. There are so many things floating around these days that are potentially bad for us.
In order to preserve our health and well being, we need even more technology and air filters to protect us. That includes air filtration. This article is all about the value and types of air filters that exist today, and what they are protecting us from.
There Are Different Types, But Some Are The Same
It can be daunting at first to identify which filter one actually needs. When shopping online it was helpful to learn from the experts at filterbuy.com that air filters, furnace filters, and AC filters are all the same thing. They compared the functionality of pleated air filters and fibreglass ones so one can make an informed choice. Air filters come in different sizes, and can even be customized and bought in bulk.
Another aspect in which air filters can differ from furnace filters is the MERV rating. The higher the MERV rating, the more the air is being filtered. On the downside, it will reduce the airflow. The running costs of the machine will be higher because it is working harder for you. Pleated air filters last for up to half a year. Over 85% of air particles are captured by them. Fibreglass filters are less effective and only last for one month, but are most widely used. They’re not hard to install, either. That’s good for people who aren’t great at DIY!
Some people use electrostatic air filters. As their name suggests, they use electricity to function. They’re not suitable if there are issues with smoke in the air and ironically, they release bad ozone substances.
Most people have vacuum cleaners and cars. They use HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters which catch 99.97% of particles. Again, their high efficiency does reduce airflow.
Protection From Outdoor Air Particles
We’ve all heard weather reports where they warn of high pollen counts. Trees and grass are the main culprits here. Then there’s ash. Add to that industrial waste and burning coal, and the risks increase. Each petrol-driven car that goes past emits exhaust fumes. Carbon monoxide is daily released into the air. None of these things are healthy for us.
Protection From Indoor Air Particles, Too
It’s amazing that even if the air quality is good outdoors, it will be worse indoors! That’s why people say we should have open windows as much as possible. Dirty air particles can come from cockroaches or vermin. Then there’s pet fur and viruses. When different chemicals are used indoors, fumes are released. The same thing happens when we cook. There could be mold in the house or smoke. There’s bacteria or dust mites, allergens, fibres, and lint — not to mention particles from plaster or wood. There are other microorganisms too. That’s quite a list of things to affect us!
They Protect Our Health, As Well
Over 50 million people in the USA suffer from allergies and high pollen counts. Asthma is on the rise, affecting peoples’ respiratory systems. If someone has these issues, an air filter is strongly recommended. There are also people battling with sneezing, itchy eyes or coughing fits. The air particles may be invisible to the human eye but can result in a runny nose, nausea, and headaches. Other people experience allergic reactions. To ignore this long term can have negative implications for our respiratory systems and can create lung injury. Other body systems can be affected too
But — Air Filters Need Maintenance
Air filters basically suck harmful particles into the air system and protect us from breathing them in. They last different amounts of time, depending on the type. It’s important to diary all maintenance activity, to ensure they keep functioning correctly. If they are dirty they won’t be able to process the air for you. An overworked system will use up more electricity and increase the fuel bills, and also have a build-up of trapped heat.
Fortunately, it’s not hard to replace air filters, and some are even washable. That’s good for the environment because they will just need cleaning every three months rather than being thrown away. They’re cheaper too, which is a plus. Environmentally friendly things often are.
It’s not hard to see how much we need to have air filters: the unseen enemies are floating in the air all the time. They provoke and create health issues and can do long term damage. Air filters take adverse particles away from us. Filters may need regular maintenance and cost us money, but the gains far outweigh the costs. Air purity is an increasing issue for planet Earth, but technology is here to serve us and keep us healthy.