Having a comfortable temperature isn’t the only important aspect of your comfort; indoor air quality is also a big part of it. Indoor pollutants can make you uncomfortable and at their worst, unhealthy. Allergens, biological contaminants, dust, and dirt can all contribute to declining indoor air quality. Independent room air cleaners can help, but to be truly effective, you may want to consider whole-home air cleaners in your San Antonio property. Professional installation is important when adding any upgrade to your air conditioning system, so be sure to call the professionals you know will do the job correctly: Cowboys Air Conditioning & Heating.
Types of Air Cleaners
There are two main types of air cleaners, and within these types are choices. The two main types are:
- Mechanical filters
- Electronic air cleaners
Mechanical Filters
Mechanical filters are square-framed filters that can be inserted directly into your system. Your air conditioner comes with a standard mechanical filter, but the purpose of this filter is to protect your system from large amounts of dust, dirt, and debris, not improve indoor air quality. Most mechanical filters fit into the slot of the standard filter and, depending on the filter’s MERV rating, can help reduce allergens, dust mites, and some mold spores. There are 3 main types of air filters available:
- Pleated
- Extended surface
- HEPA
Each of these filters captures particles in its filter fabric and should be changed about every 3 months. One item to note about HEPA filters: some can be too restrictive, and as such, restrict air flow in your system. If you want to use a HEPA filter in your air conditioner, consult with an expert first.
Electronic Air cleaners
There are two types of electronic air cleaners:
- Electronic precipitators
- Ion generators
Electronic Precipitators
Electronic precipitators use a small amount of electricity to create a charged area known as an ion section. Particles are directed into this section and electronically charged; oppositely-charged metal plates then collect these charged particles, which stay on the plates until they are cleaned. The plates should be cleaned every 3 months to ensure continued proper operation.
Ion Generators
Ion generators operate in a similar way as an electronic precipitator, but with two main differences: they have no ion section and do not collect particles. Instead, an ion generator disperses ions into the air around it, which charges the particles in the surrounding air. These charged particles then attach to surfaces throughout your home and are cleaned during normal house cleaning.
Which Air Cleaner Is Best for You?
Choosing the best air cleaner for you, your home, and your family depends on your needs. Working with trained professionals can help you make the right decision when it comes to air cleaners in San Antonio, so call Cowboys Air Conditioning & Heating today and schedule an appointment with one of our experts.
