We test HVAC filters in an isolated room with its own air circulation duct, cut off from the rest of our building’s heating, cooling, and ventilation systems. The temperature and humidity are controlled, and we clean the air in the room prior to each test. Then we inject two substances into the room: a mixture of dust in various particle sizes, and smoke from standardized research cigarettes.

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Once the air quality gets as bad as we need it to be for our test, we turn on the air circulation in the room and use a particle analyzer to measure how quickly the filter reduces the particle count. We also monitor how much each filter restricts airflow, using a differential pressure transducer installed across the air filter.

Our top-rated models are fantastic at capturing pollutants while allowing enough air to flow through to keep your heating and cooling system running optimally. The worst models capture very little pollution or significantly restrict airflow—or sometimes both. 

We also calculate the annual costs of replacement filters, assuming that your system needs only a single filter, and based on the manufacturer’s recommendation for when to change them. Keep in mind that prices may vary by retailer and that it may be cheaper if you buy filters in bulk.

The industry standard for an HVAC filter’s performance is measured according to the MERV scale (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value—rolls off the tongue!), from MERV 1 through MERV 16. Some sources have claimed that the scale reaches MERV 20, but the testing standard has been updated to clarify that MERV 16 is the maximum. 

At the low end of the scale, the filters are made from fiberglass or mesh, and can capture large particles like hair, fibers from clothes and carpets, and some pollen. Disposable fiberglass filters can cost just $2 each.

As the rating increases, the filters can progressively capture smaller particles—and they tend to cost more. Around MERV 8, filter designs typically switch to pleated media (nonwoven material made of things like fiberglass paper, polyester, and plastic), and can reliably capture pollen, mold spores, and many types of household dust. 

At MERV 13—the highest rating you’ll find for most of the popular residential HVAC filter sizes—you can count on the filter to stop bacteria, smoke, and other microscopic particles. These filters can cost $40 or more.

Most home improvement stores sell HVAC filters ranging from MERV 1 to MERV 13, though CR has tested models as high as MERV 16. But some filters with midrange and higher MERV ratings might cause problems in residential HVAC systems. (More on that later.)

Some filter brands and retailers use alternative scales, like Home Depot’s Air Filter Performance Rating (FPR) system or MPR (on 3M Filtrete air filters). But the MERV rating will also be printed on the packaging or in the online product descriptions. 

Many manufacturers also say their HVAC filters are “allergen” filters (or something similar). But these are usually just filters with a rating of at least MERV 11, the rating where filters begin to catch the majority of particles that are the size of common allergens. There’s nothing uniquely anti-allergenic about these filters, and other filters with the same MERV rating should capture allergens just as well.

This typically means first finding your existing filter (or filters). HVAC filters are often located in a slot next to your furnace or air handler. But some HVAC systems have filters inside the return air ducts scattered in multiple rooms throughout your home. (Those are the grates that suck air back in, rather than blowing air out.) 

Once you’ve found each filter, make sure it’s the proper size, measured in inches of length, width, and depth (or thickness). If there are gaps around the sides or it doesn’t line up with any gaskets, it might be the wrong size. If your existing filters are a perfect fit, write down (or take a picture of) the size printed on the filter frame. When in doubt, check for the proper filter dimensions in your equipment’s owner’s manual, or get in touch with the manufacturer. 

You’ll often find an exact fit in stock at a hardware store, but sometimes you’ll need to order the correct filter size online. (And if you’re reading this from the filter aisle at the hardware store, don’t bother trying to guess the size—there are at least a dozen common dimensions, and you’re likely to choose incorrectly.) 

Take particular note of the thickness because it will affect the next decision you have to make (in step 2). Most residential HVAC filters are 1 inch thick, but 4-inch filters are becoming common, too.

Any pleated HVAC filter can improve your home’s indoor air quality by snagging dust, pollen, and other small particles—sort of like a quieter, more passive vacuum cleaner. 

But a filter that’s too dense for your setup can make it harder to heat and cool your home effectively and efficiently. It might also damage your furnace, AC, or heat pump over time as parts overheat or freeze solid.

A filter that’s unnecessarily loose isn’t great, either. It’s a missed opportunity to breathe cleaner air—and it also could damage your HVAC equipment over time as gunk accumulates on the blower and coils.

So the right amount of filtration is about finding the sweet spot: a filter that allows ample airflow through your ducts while capturing as much debris as possible. 

Remember how we said to take particular note of your filter’s thickness, which will usually be 1 inch or 4 inches? This is where that detail becomes important, because it might affect how much filtration your system can handle.

1 inch thick: These can be tricky to shop for, according to many HVAC professionals, because 1-inch filters with high MERV ratings are especially likely to be too restrictive for some HVAC systems. 

Nevertheless, CR has tested several 1-inch, high-MERV filters (MERV 11 and up) that earn a very good rating on our airflow test (that’s like scoring a 4 on a scale of 1 to 5). They tend to be pretty expensive, though. Models that earn the highest rating on our airflow test also tend to have lower MERV ratings, and cost less, though they don’t perform as well on our particle-capture tests. CR members can see the top performers in our full air filter ratings. 

If you want to be certain about how much airflow your HVAC system requires to function properly, you’ll need to measure the static pressure. (Basically, that’s the resistance to airflow in your ducts, based on a handful of factors.)

A qualified technician with basic tools of the trade can take the measurement in a couple of minutes—for example, when they’re already at your home performing a system tuneup—and advise you on how to pick filters that will work well with your equipment.

If you can’t take a measurement, experts sometimes recommend sticking with a MERV 8 pleated filter as a safe-harbor option. Filters with this rating allow plenty of airflow, so they’ll be safe for most systems. They also don’t cost much, and they catch a lot more debris than basic fiberglass filters can.

4 inches thick (or greater): If you already have a filter cabinet that can handle a filter of this thickness, you can feel confident that even a high-MERV filter will work well with your HVAC system.

The secret is that they can capture tons of debris while using relatively porous filter material, thanks to the huge surface area that dirty air has to pass over—about four times as much filter media as on a 1-inch filter. A MERV 13 is a great choice at this size, delivering excellent air quality for a reasonable price. 

If you currently have 1-inch filters, you could consider upgrading your system to accommodate 4-inch filters. Your HVAC pro would install a small cabinet next to your furnace or air handler (on the air-intake side) to hold the thicker filter. The work should cost only hundreds (not thousands) of dollars.

Fiberglass vs. Synthetic Fiber Air Filters: Which Is Better for Your HVAC System?

Table of Contents:

Introduction

Section 1: Overview of Fiberglass and Synthetic Fiber Air Filters

Section 2: The Main Differences

Conclusion

Choosing the right air filter for your HVAC system is crucial for maintaining indoor air quality and ensuring the longevity of your equipment. Two popular types of air filters are fiberglass and synthetic fiber filters. Each has its unique advantages and disadvantages, making them suitable for different applications.

Want more information on fiberglass mesh filter? Feel free to contact us.

Additional reading:
T-316 Stainless Steel Wire Mesh

Overview of Fiberglass and Synthetic Fiber Air Filters

Fiberglass Filters

Fiberglass air filters are woven from fine glass fibers to create a dense, flat panel. These filters are typically inexpensive and widely available.

They are designed to trap large particles such as dust and lint, preventing them from entering the HVAC system and causing damage.

Fiberglass filters are less effective at capturing smaller particles like pollen, mold spores, and bacteria, which can affect air quality.

Synthetic Fiber Filters

Synthetic fiber filters are made from materials such as polyester or other artificial fibers. These filters are often more complex in structure, Educorpus with multiple layers designed to capture a broader range of particle sizes.

Synthetic fiber filters are generally more efficient than fiberglass filters, with higher Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) ratings. This means they can trap smaller particles more effectively, improving overall air quality.

Synthetic fiber filters are usually more durable and have a longer lifespan compared to fiberglass filters.

The Main Differences

Material Composition

Fiberglass Filters:

Fiberglass filters are made from fine glass fibers spun into a flat, panel-like shape. These fibers are layered to create a dense mat that can capture large particles from the air.

Advantages: simplicity, cost-effectiveness.

Synthetic Fiber Filters:

Synthetic fiber filters, on the other hand, are made from polyester or other synthetic materials. These fibers are woven or bonded together to form a more intricate and durable structure.

Advantages: higher density, capture smaller particles.

Performance and Efficiency

Fiberglass Filters:

Fiberglass filters typically have a lower Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating, usually between 1 and 9. CleanLink offers fiberglass filters with MERV ratings reaching up to 14.

This means they are effective at capturing larger particles such as dust and lint but are less effective at trapping smaller particles like pollen, mold spores, and bacteria.

Synthetic Fiber Filters:

Synthetic fiber filters generally have a higher MERV rating, ranging from 5 to 13 or even higher. This makes them more efficient at capturing smaller particles, improving air quality.

They can trap dust mites, pollen, mold spores, and even some bacteria and viruses, making them suitable for higher air purity applications.

Durability and Lifespan

Fiberglass Filters:

Fiberglass filters are comparatively less durable than synthetic fiber filters. They require a higher replacement rate in the same working condition.

Synthetic Fiber Filters:

One of the features that make synthetic fiber filters the winner in this competition is their robust construction, allowing large airflow while working.

Cost Considerations

Fiberglass Filters:

Fiberglass filters generally cost less upfront, making them a popular option for tight-budget customers. However, the frequency of change should be considered accordingly.

Synthetic Fiber Filters:

The customer can see a comparatively high cost at the beginning of choosing synthetic fiber filters. The advantage of synthetic fiber filters is that they save maintenance costs in the long run.

Applications

Fiberglass Filters:

Given that fiberglass air filters’ features, they are better suited for lower air filtration requirements in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.

They are commonly used as pre-filters in multi-stage air filtration systems, capturing larger particles and extending the life of higher-efficiency filters used downstream.

Fiberglass Pocket Filter

Paint booth Filter

High-Temp Filter 

Fiberglass Pocket Filter

Paint booth Filter

High-Temp Filter 

Synthetic Fiber Filters:

Thanks to the excellent ability of synthetic fiber filters, they are great at capturing smaller particles and have a high efficiency.

They are typically used in healthcare facilities, cleanrooms, laboratories, educational institutions, commercial buildings, data centers, and places where high air quality is needed.

Pleated Panel Filter

High-Temp Panel Filter

Medium Effic Filter

Pleated Panel Filter

High-Temp Panel Filter

Medium Effic Filter

Conclusion

Both fiberglass and synthetic fiber air filters have their strengths and weaknesses. Fiberglass filters are cost-effective and suitable for basic filtration needs, while synthetic fiber filters offer superior performance, durability, and environmental benefits.

When choosing the right filter for your HVAC system, consider your specific air quality needs, budget, and maintenance preferences. For those requiring higher air quality and longer-lasting filters, synthetic fiber filters are the better choice.

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