What to Know About Electrostatic Furnace Filters

Technology

• Electrostatic furnace filters capture dirt particles in the air using static electricity. The filters are able to remove up to 94 percent of the sub-micron dirt particles in the air, whereas a fiberglass filter will only remove up to 2 percent of the smallest dirt particles. As the particles pass by the filter, the static charge attracts them. Dirt is trapped until the filter is washed.

Furnace

• Although able to capture the smallest dirt particles, the filter doesn't have any effect on the air flow, allowing the furnace to operate more efficiently. The air particles that pass through other furnace filters can settle inside the furnace and eventually cause it to malfunction. With the electrostatic filter, particles as small as 0.3 micron are trapped. This keeps the air and the furnace cleaner.

Air

• Indoor air can contain smoke, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, bacteria and dust. When you breathe this air in all day, you are susceptible to many health issues, ranging from eye watering to respiratory problems. People who have allergies will benefit from using the electrostatic filters, because they trap small air particles that would otherwise float around in the air.

Filter Cleaning

• Electrostatic filters are cleaned using water. Every one to three months, depending on the dirt buildup, the filter should be removed from the filter holder and sprayed with a garden hose or run under the shower to remove the dirt. After the dirt is removed, the filter needs to air dry before being placed back in the furnace.