Things to Consider

Comparing the Two Most Common HVAC Filter Types

Frequently Asked Questions about Fiberglass and Pleated Air Filters

What Are Fiberglass Filters, And How Do They Work?

A flat, porous mat of stacked fiberglass fibers is used to create fiberglass air filters, a type of HVAC filter. Lightweight and affordable fiberglass filters remove dust, lint, hair, as well as other contaminants from the air. When air flows through their porous structure, airborne particles become trapped. They prevent debris from damaging HVAC systems. A Fiberglass filter can extend your HVAC system's lifespan and ensure it functions at its best if you replace its filter regularly.

Are Fiberglass Air Filters Safe?

Yes, for the most part, fiberglass filters are safe. But they fall short compared to pleated filters when it comes to filtering out the smaller contaminants in your air such as pollen, pet dander, and bacteria. You should also be aware that, because they don't have a lot of surface area and don't filter smaller particles out, they eventually can cause build-up and weaken your HVAC system and decrease its efficiency, which may lead to higher energy costs.

What Is A Pleated Filter?

Pleated filters are made with pliable pleated polyester, cotton, or paper. Pleats expand their surface area so they can catch smaller airborne debris. Pleated filters capture mold, smoke, pollen, dust mites, and pet dander, so they are believed to create better air quality. These filters are effective for anyone who has respiratory issues or allergies. Another benefit of pleated filters is that they are usually recyclable.

What Are Pleated Air Filters Made Of?

Pleated filters can be made of paper, cotton, polyester, or other pliable materials. For example, the filter media in our MERV 13 pleated filters is made of polypropylene/acrylic fibers. This high-quality, synthetic, plastic-based material allows the filters to trap particles as small as lint, dust mites, mold spores, pollen, pet dander, fine dust, smoke, viruses, and bacteria.

Are Pleated Air Filters Better?

While fiberglass air filters will do the job in the most basic way, in most cases, pleated air filters are much better. They can filter out smaller particles – important for people with airborne sensitivities. They are less likely to clog in a short amount of time, and they can last up to 90 days. They're also recyclable in most communities, which makes them a good choice for the environmentally conscious.

Which Type Of Filter Is Better For Improving Indoor Air Quality?

Pleated and fiberglass air filters have some differences in what they do and their performance levels. Fiberglass filters shield HVAC systems by capturing bigger debris but are less effective at filtering small particles. If you’re looking to reduce allergies, pleated filters are recommended. Pleated filters are better at improving indoor air quality and may cost a little bit more, but they have higher MERV ratings. 

How Do Fiberglass And Pleated Filters Compare In Terms Of Cost And Longevity?

Cost: Fiberglass filters are a cost-effective choice because they’re reasonably priced, usually between $1 and $5 per filter. Peated filter prices range from $5 to $15 per filter, depending on their brand and MERV rating.

Longevity: Fiberglass filters need replacing every 30 days due to their lower lifespan and risk of clogging with larger debris. Pleated filters typically last between 60 and 90 days due to their larger surface area, which keeps them from clogging, and improves filtration.

Which Filter Type Is Best For Energy Efficiency?

When you use a fiberglass filter, air passes through HVAC systems easily, making them more energy-efficient. This reduces strain on your HVAC blower motor. Pleated filters improve filtering by capturing tiny particles, but they can also increase airflow resistance, which could make your HVAC system work harder if they’re too dense or are not replaced often enough. Pleated filters work well when maintained and regular filter changes are completed. Their MERV rating ensures healthy air quality. 

Are Fiberglass Or Pleated Filters Better For Allergy Sufferers?

Pleated filters are better than fiberglass filters when it comes to allergens. Pleated filters can trap microscopic particles that cause allergies, because of their higher MERV rating, which usually ranges from 8 to 13. Their pleated design gives them a bigger surface area, increasing their ability to trap allergens. Fiberglass filters don’t filter tiny allergens so they are not helpful for allergy sufferers. They do protect HVAC systems by removing larger particles. 

Do Fiberglass Or Pleated Filters Have A Greater Environmental Impact?

Pleated filters are less harmful to the environment than fiberglass filters. Pleated filters need fewer changes and generate less waste because they last longer. They are made of recyclable materials like cotton or polyester which makes them more sustainable. Fiberglass filters can’t be recycled and are not biodegradable.  Because of their shorter lifespan, they need replacement more often and they create more waste. Pleated filters make more sense for homeowners who care about the environment.

How Does Airflow Resistance Differ Between Fiberglass And Pleated Filters?

A fiberglass filter lets air flow freely because of its open, less dense design, reducing airflow resistance. But, because fiberglass filters aren’t quite as good at trapping tiny particles, this comes at the expense of stronger filtering. Pleated filters offer higher airflow resistance and can trap additional pollutants in your home or business. 

Which Filter Type Requires More Maintenance?

Because fiberglass filters clog easily with larger particles, they need more maintenance and have a shorter lifespan than pleated folders do. Clogs add stress to the HVAC system and they will need to be replaced every 30 days. With a larger surface area, pleated filters capture more tiny particles and last between 50 to 90 days. Pleated filters need less frequent replacement, and although they should be checked every so often, typically don’t need as much maintenance as fiberglass filters do.

Are Fiberglass Or Pleated Filters Better For HVAC System Longevity?

Pleated filters prevent pollutants from accumulating on the HVAC system's coils and blower motor. This reduces the likelihood of a malfunction and increases the longevity of your HVAC system. Fiberglass filters occasionally let material collect inside the HVAC system, which can cause clogs and increase the need for maintenance. Pleated filters can often be more reliable for your HVAC system performance over time.

My Property Manager Says Fiberglass Is The Only Material My Unit Can Handle. Why Would That Be True?

While we don't know the exact reason that your property manager would make that claim, our guess is that he's concerned about airflow through the building's ventilation system. Fiberglass filters, when changed regularly, do allow for more airflow because they have less surface area than pleated filters and allow the smaller particles to get through. However, if you don't change them every 30 days, you'll find they have the opposite effect by getting clogged and potentially harming your system.