Non-pleated air filters are made of & fiberglass electrostatic materials and are only capable of trapping large debris. They have the lowest MERV rating, lower than 1, and must be replaced every 30 days. This makes them an inefficient choice for allergy sufferers. Pleated air filters have a higher MERV rating of 2 to 4, making them more effective at trapping small particles.
They can be reused for up to three months, making them a more cost-effective option. Multimedia filters are also rugged and cost-effective, but they provide low air filtration and are less resistant to airflow. The minimum efficiency index (MERV) of an air filter measures how well it prevents dust and other contaminants from passing through the filter and reaching the air stream. Filters with more pleats filter better than those with fewer creases and trap even the most dangerous allergens and contaminants, such as pet dander and mold spores. They use static electricity to filter up to 94% of the particles in the air down to one micron. When choosing between pleated and non-pleated air filters, you should consider the location of the filter, lifespan, level of filtration, and cost.
Pleated filters are more expensive but offer better filtration and can be reused for up to three months. Non-pleated filters are cheaper but need to be replaced more often. To help you make an informed decision, here is a summary of the pros and cons of each type of filter:
- Pleated Filters: Higher MERV rating; reusable for up to three months; more expensive.
- Non-Pleated Filters: Lower MERV rating; must be replaced every 30 days; cheaper.
