1) Standard pleated air conditioner filters

Standard pleated air conditioner filters are the most common. These filters come in thickneses from 1 inch to 6 inches and have rateings from as low a MERV 4 up to MERV 12.

The higher the MERV rating the more efficient the filter will be. More information about MERV Rating

2) Electrostatically charged pleated air conditioner filters

Electrostatic pleated air conditioner filters are made of a material that becomes electrostatically charged as air passes through it. The dust particles passing through the filter have an opposite charge from the filter material. The effect is similar to the magnetic attraction of metal and a magnet. This electrostatic charge helps to capture smaller and a greater number of particles.

3) HEPA air conditioner filters

HEPA air conditioner filters are the most efficient of the pleated air conditioner types available. True HEPA filters are over 99% efficient.

Some HEPA air filters are reuseable. You simply wash them with water and reuse them. Usually you can only reuse them several times. When using HEPA filters in air conditioning equipment it is importnat to have an HVAC professional check the unit to be sure the filter will not negatively impact air flow.

It is important to remember that the more efficient an air conditioner filter is the more restriction there is to air flow. This restriction to air flow also reduces the operating effieiency of the air conditioning equipment.

If pleated pleated air conditioner filters are not maintained properly, changed or cleaned regualrly, operating costs go up and equipment breakdown can be the end result.

For some great information about air conditioner filter options and maintenance tips visit www.furnacefiltercare.com