What Can Be Used in Place of Foam for Furnace Filters?

Pleated Filters

• Pleated filters are made from a wide range of materials. Some furnace filters contain carbon or charcoal fibers in the filter material to fight odors. Some filters have electrostatic characteristics that will help the filters trap smaller dust particles. Dust particles are trapped on the surface of the filter instead of trapped within the filter. The pleats allow the filter to collect more dust than a flat panel. Pleated filters will last one to three months before they need to be replaced. Pleated filters are 11 percent effective in removing dust particles 0.3 to 0.6 microns in size, according to the University of Illinois Extension.

Electrostatic Filters

• Electrostatic furnace filters trap dust particles and keep the air quality in the home cleaner. The filters will trap the smallest dust particles including smoke particles, which are less than 0.3 microns in size. The filter must be washed monthly to remove the dust particles collected. Electrostatic filters are 49 percent effective in removing dust particles 0.3 to 0.6 microns in size, according to the University of Illinois Extension

Reusable Filters

• Reusable furnace filters have a foil or plastic pad that captures dust particles from the air. The filters are washed and reinstalled into the furnace. These types of filters can last three to five years. To help the filter capture small dust particles that otherwise would get through, a tacky spray is sprayed on the filter after every washing. These filters are 6 percent effective in removing dust particles 0.3 to 0.6 microns in size, the University of Illinois Extension reports.

Electronic Filters

• Electronic filters are 94 percent effective in removing dust particles 0.3 microns in size or more, according to the University of Illinois Extension. The filter requires a deep installed on the furnace for a thick filter. The electronic filters need electricity to work, but will last for years without needing replacement. The filters are washed once a month to remove the trapped dust particles.