Maison

>

Blog

>

Types de filtres à air expliqués: Comment choisir le bon

Types de filtres à air expliqués: Comment choisir le bon

Table des matières

Improving indoor air quality is a critical concern for both residential and commercial environments. Air filters play a fundamental role in controlling airborne contaminants, ensuring healthier air, and protecting HVAC systems.

This article provides a detailed and technically accurate overview of different types of air filters, their efficiency ratings, selection criteria, and maintenance best practices.

What Are Air Filters and Why Are They Important?

Air filters are mechanical or electrostatic devices designed to remove particulate matter and, in some cases, gaseous pollutants from the air. They are essential components of heating, ventilation, et la climatisation (HVAC) systems, air purifiers, and specialized industrial equipment.

The primary function of an air filter is to trap airborne particles such as dust, pollen, spores de moule, bactéries, fumée, and volatile organic compounds (Chou). Removing these contaminants is vital not only for occupant health—reducing respiratory irritations, allergies, and exposure to pathogens—but also for maintaining the operational integrity of HVAC systems. Accumulated dust and debris can degrade system performance, increase energy consumption, and lead to costly repairs.

In environments with stringent air quality requirements, such as hospitals, laboratoires, and manufacturing cleanrooms, rail transportation, selecting the appropriate air filter is critical for compliance with health and safety standards.

Quelle est la note Merv sur les filtres à air?

La valeur de rapport d'efficacité minimale (Mât) is an industry-standard rating system developed by ASHRAE that quantifies a filter’s effectiveness at capturing airborne particles of various sizes. MERV ratings range from 1 à 20, with higher numbers indicating higher filtration efficiency.

The following table summarizes the MERV rating ranges, the particle sizes they target, and typical applications:

MERV Rating RangeParticle Size Range (Microns)Example ParticlesFiltration Efficiency and Typical Applications
1-43.0 à 10Dust, pollen, fibres de tapisBasic filtration for large particles; common in residential window AC units
5-81.0 à 3.0Legionella bacteria, dust mite debrisSuitable for standard residential and commercial buildings; captures smaller dust and mold spores
9-120.3 à 1.0Smoke, aerosols, some virusesHigh-efficiency filtration appropriate for hospitals and high-occupancy commercial spaces
13-160.3 à 1.0Bactéries, fuméeUsed in healthcare facilities and laboratories; capable of filtering bacteria and smoke
17-200.3 and smallerMicroscopic particles including many virusesHEPA and ULPA filters used in specialized cleanrooms; highest level of filtration

Également lire: Quelle est la note Merv sur les filtres à air? Tout ce que vous devez savoir

De quelle note Merv ai-je besoin pour la maison?

Common Types of Air Filters and Their Key Features

Air filters generally fall into three main categories: mechanical, electrostatic, and activated carbon filters, each addressing different pollutants and applications. Here is an overview of the most common types:

1. Fiberglass Filters

aluminum and paper frame fiberglass filter

Fiberglass filters are the most basic type. They use layered fiberglass fibers to trap larger dust particles. They are inexpensive and provide minimal resistance to airflow, but their filtration efficiency is low, usually corresponding to MERV ratings of 1 à 4. These filters are best for protecting HVAC systems but offer limited air quality improvement.

2. Filtres plissés

pleated hepa filter

Pleated filters consist of folded fabric or paper material that increases the surface area for trapping particles. They generally have MERV ratings from 8 à 13. These filters capture a wider range of particle sizes, including mold spores and pet dander. Their denser material improves filtration without significantly reducing airflow, making them a popular choice for homes and offices.

3. Electrostatic Filters

Electrostatic filters use static electricity to attract and hold airborne particles. They can be either washable or disposable. Their MERV ratings vary widely, often between 8 et 13. While they can capture small particles effectively, their performance depends on the static charge, which may weaken over time or with washing.

4. Filtres HEPA

HEPA FILTER

Air particulaire à haute efficacité (HEPA) filtres are designed to capture at least 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns. These are used in environments requiring very clean air, such as hospitals, laboratoires, et chambres propres. HEPA filters have very high filtration efficiency but also cause high airflow resistance. HVAC systems need to be specifically designed or upgraded to handle HEPA filters.

5. Filtres en carbone activés

activated carbon filter

Activated carbon filters are primarily used to remove odors, gaz, and volatile organic compounds (Chou). They do this by adsorbing these substances onto the porous surface of activated carbon. These filters are often combined with other types like pleated or HEPA filters to provide both particle and gas filtration.

5. Filtres en carbone activés

paint booth filter combo

Paint booth filters are specially designed to capture overspray particles, poussière, and contaminants during painting processes. This type of air filters typically made from fiberglass, polyester, or synthetic media. Also these filters can be divided into four types: intake filters, exhaust filters, air makeup filters, and specialty filters.

Read more: Quels sont les différents types de filtres de cabine de peinture?

Air Filter TypeMaterialTypical MERV RatingProsInconvénientsApplication
Fiberglass FiltersLayered fiberglass fibers1 – 4Low cost Minimal airflow resistance Protects HVAC componentsLow filtration efficiency
Not effective for small particles
Frequent replacement
Basic HVAC protection, residential use
Filtres plissésFolded fabric or paper8 – 13Better filtration than fiberglass Captures mold spores and pet dander Reasonable airflowHigher cost than fiberglass
Needs regular replacement
Not for very fine particles
Maisons, bureaux, bâtiments commerciaux
Electrostatic FiltersElectrically charged synthetic fibers8 – 13Washable and reusable Effective for small particle Moderate costPerformance drops as static weakens Requires cleaning Filtration less consistentResidential and light commercial use
Filtres HEPADense mat of randomly arranged fibersAu-dessus de 13 (not standard MERV)Extremely high filtration efficiency Captures bacteria and viruses Ideal for sensitive environmentsHigh airflow resistance Expensive Requires specialized HVAC systemsHôpitaux, laboratoires, clean rooms, critical environments
Filtres en carbone activésPorous activated carbonN/ARemoves odors and chemical pollutants Can combine with particle filtersDoes not remove particulate matter Limited lifespan Frequent replacement neededOdor control in homes, industrial air purification
Filtres de cabine de peintureFiberglass, polyester, synthetic mediaVarie; often not rated by MERVEffectively traps paint overspray and contaminants
Maintains clean painting environment
Multiple design options
Frequent replacement needed
Can increase airflow resistance if clogged
Higher cost than standard filters
Automotive paint booths, industrial spray painting, furniture manufacturing

How to Choose Between Different Types of Air Filter?

Selecting the right air filter requires balancing several factors: efficacité de filtration, airflow resistance, coût, and application environment.

  • Understand Your Needs: Par exemple, a standard office might only need a pleated filter with a MERV 8 à 11 rating. In contrast, medical or industrial spaces might require HEPA filtration.
  • Consider HVAC Compatibility: Not all HVAC systems can handle filters with high MERV ratings. A filter too dense can reduce airflow, leading to higher energy costs and system wear.
  • Evaluate Indoor Air Quality Concerns: If odors or VOCs are a problem, activated carbon filters are beneficial. For allergy sufferers, filters that capture smaller particles (Mât 11 and above) are better.
  • Budget and Maintenance: Fiberglass filters are cheap but need frequent replacement. Pleated and electrostatic filters offer better value over time. HEPA filters, while expensive, provide unmatched air cleanliness but have higher maintenance and installation costs.

Tips for Maintaining and Replacing Your Air Filter Effectively

change air filter

Proper maintenance is crucial for maximizing your air filter’s effectiveness and lifespan.

  • Check Filters Regularly: Inspect your filter every month, especially during high usage seasons like summer and winter.
  • Replace on Schedule: Follow manufacturer recommendations, typically every 3 months for pleated filters. Electrostatic washable filters should be cleaned regularly according to instructions.
  • Keep Spare Filters: Having replacements on hand prevents system downtime and ensures consistent air quality.
  • Maintain HVAC System: A clean HVAC system reduces dust buildup and improves filter performance. Regular professional servicing is advisable.
  • Monitor Air Quality: Using air quality monitors can help you determine when filters need replacement or upgrade.
hepa filter manufacturing

À Filtre aéré, a dedicated air filter manufacturer, we recommend evaluating your specific environment and air quality goals before selecting a air filter type. If you require guidance or customized filtration solutions, our technical experts are available to assist with product selection and application support. No further than us today!

Partager:

Entrer en contact

Blogs populaires

It seems we can't find what you're looking for.

Obtenez votre devis de filtre à air personnalisé dès aujourd'hui!

Que vous ayez besoin de solutions de filtration de qualité industrielle ou de modernisation rapide, Nous livrons des filtres conçus avec précision pour optimiser vos opérations.

Contactez-nous

*Nous respectons votre confidentialité et toutes les informations sont protégées.