How does my filter work?
After air circulates through the home, it passes through the cold-air
return duct and through a filter before entering the furnace to
be re-heated. The basic furnace filter removes dust collected in
the air through its travels. A basic furnace filter is not designed
to improve Indoor Air Quality, but is rather simply designed to
prevent large dust particulate from collecting on the furnace fan.
Clogged filters have negative effects and they force the furnace
to work harder, which dramatically increases furnace wear and hydro
consumption.
How often should I replace my filter?
If you want the air in your house to be as clean as possible, particularly
if occupants in your home have allergies or are prone to winter
colds, then change the filter frequently. Most experts recommend
changing air cleaner filters every six months and humidifier pads
once per heating season. This will minimize the amount of natural
airborne pollutants including mold, pollen, fungi, dust, and self-contributed
pollutants like tobacco, pet dander, and cooking smoke. The minimal
cost of the replacement pads will be quickly offset by the improved
operating efficiency of the furnace and the dramatic improvement
in Indoor Air Quality.
Why do you use only genuine factory replacement parts?
Simply put, you get what you pay for. The water panel absorption
rate and the filter media efficiency are greatly compromised with
cheaply priced substitutes.
Why don't local big box stores sell these filters?
Big box retailers do not have the technical expertise for products
that they do not retail within their stores. This equipment is sold
through mechanical contractors because of its technical nature.
I
found a similar filter and it almost the same dimensions. Do I really
need to buy the manufacturers replacement filter?
It is crucial that the filter fits properly and meets the manufacturers
performance standards
Improperly fitting filters will allow particulate matter to pass
in to the blower, cooling coil and duct work.
These filters are tested and rated by Ashrae to meet the stated
efficiency. Manufacturer knock offs do not adhere to the same efficiency
standards. They may be using materials that can release toxic gases
and promote mold growth (glue)
What
is the difference between a 1" filter and a 5" filter?
1” filters are designed to prevent large particulate from plugging
the blower wheel and A/C cooling coil
Media filters are designed to protect the occupants as they capture
particulate like pollen, spores & dust mites
The holding capacity of media filters is 3 to 4 times longer
The capture rate of a media filter
Can
I clean my media filter, wash my carbon filters, and humidifier
water panels?
Media air cleaner filters are designed with dense media that have
small porous holes that trap and hold the tiniest of particles.
They permanently imbed in the media itself. The media is not water
resistant and will fray and tear easily.
Carbon
filters are disposable not washable and remain activated for about
3-4 months.
Humidifier
water panels are honeycomb in design and the mesh is coated with
a ceramic spray to slow the flow of water. The minerals and calcium
in the water load the center core of the pad preventing proper water
absorption and lead to very expensive and wasteful water consumption.
What
happens if I leave my furnace filter in too long?
A filter left in too long will increase electricity consumption,
reduce air floor, lead to icing and water problems during the summer,
and greatly reduce both the life and reliability of you air handling
heating/cooling system.
There
is an arrow on the face of my filter, how should it be pointing?
The air flow directional arrow should always be pointing at the
appliance irrespective of whether the air cleaner is installed in
the up flow, down flow or horizontal left or right position.
How
does carbon filtration work? Where do I install carbon filters?
Activated charcoal is charcoal that has been treated with oxygen
to open up millions of tiny pores between the carbon atoms. When
certain chemicals pass next to the carbon surface, they attach to
the surface and are trapped. The surface area of activated charcoal
gives it countless bonding sites. When all the bonding sites are
filled, an activated charcoal filter stops working (2-3 months)
Carbon filters should be installed in the channel of the air cleaner
closest to the appliance
How
often should I change my humidifier water panel?
Replace your humidifier pad once per season. Frequency can increase
if you have extremely hard water in your area.
How
does a modern day (Bypass Flow-Through Style) humidifier work?
A water line brings water directly to an electrically-controlled
valve at the top of the humidifier. Air passes through a disposable
aluminum pad. The pad or “water panel “is similar to a piece of
extremely coarse aluminum steel wool. The pad has a coating of matte
ceramic, resulting in an extremely large surface area within a small
space. When the hygrostat calls for humidity, the valve is opened
and causes a flow of water through the pad. Hot air is passed through
the pad, causing the water to evaporate from the pad and be carried
into the building.
The relative humidity should be set between 35% and 45% depending
on the ambient temperature
How does DAX detergent work?
DAX Air Cleaner Detergent is an extra-strong liquid detergent specifically
designed for cleaning electronic air filters. Containing surface-active
agents, grease solvents, alkaline cleaners, corrosion inhibitors
and water conditioners Dax rapidly cleans dirt, grease, dust and
tars from electronic concentrations. This detergent comes in a ready-to-use
32oz sprayer.
What
are pre-filters?
A washable pre-filter is constructed of multi-layers of aluminum
mesh for maximum filtration of large particles
How
often should I change my media filter?
Regular 1" furnace filters should be replaced every 2-3 months.
We provide a free 6-month post card reminder service and recommend
you check the condition of your filters every six months. Most manufacturers
will generally recommend up to one year. We suggest 6-8 months as
the frequency has more to do with the living conditions in your
home. (Examples: pets, smokers, etc.)
Is
my filter easy to install?
Most filters have filter-changing instructions right on the packaging.
We can assist you by phone or send a technician to provide this
service for you. (Additional cost)
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