What Type Of Air Filter Should I Order?

There's a bewildering range of different air filter types out there and it's easy to get confused. We've done the homework for you and simplified the process so you can make the right choice.

First things first: Economy fiberglass filters compared to pleated filters

There really is no comparison to be made. Cheap fiberglass filters are usually sold in multi-packs for a few bucks and, in this case you definitely get what you pay for... very little quality. They are not efficient for two reasons.

• The relatively open weave of the fiberglass mesh does not filter out much dirt at all and the micro-particles and contaminants present in your home just get sucked through the filter and into your HVAC system.
• Over time, the inside components of your HVAC equipment and the air ducts get coated with crud and your system can't work at peak efficiency. This means higher energy bills and expensive sanitizing and repair bills.

In short, this cheap type of filter doesn't filter very well at all, and you won't find them here at Second Nature. If you are in the habit of buying them, it's a habit you should break!‍

Pleated filters are the only way to go

We only offer reliable, high-quality pleated filters, which are made right here in the USA. They are up to 60% more efficient than fiberglass and have a denser, larger surface area (imagine the pleats ironed out flat) that ensures better filtration. But remember, these higher grade filters are more efficient at capturing the bad stuff, and by doing a better job they get dirty quicker. That's good news … not bad news. They are both more efficient and faster at doing what they are supposed to do.

Picking the grade of filter

Your filter type depends on a number of considerations. The number of people in your home, whether you have pets, and any allergies will all need to be taken into account. Also, the possible presence of smoke, smog, and microscopic contaminants that may carry odor usually call for a higher grade of filter to trap the smaller stuff.‍

We've simplified your filter choice

Second Nature offers two key types of MagiFilters: Energy Efficient and Health Shield. That makes it easy for you or your residents to select what filters are best for your property. Both are high-quality filters manufactured in Wilson, North Carolina.

Energy Efficient

Our Energy Efficient filter takes care of basic contaminants like dust, pollen, pet dander and virus carriers, while still allowing good airflow through the HVAC system. It's a great all-purpose filter that works well for most homes. With a soft-edge frame that creates a tighter seal, our Energy Efficient option is capable of capturing 97% more of the smallest harmful particles, 38% more medium-sized particles, and 16% more of the largest troublemakers.

Health Shield

Our Health Shield option traps all the contaminants that our Energy Efficient filter does, but it goes even further, capturing microscopic allergens that can irritate allergies and sensitivities. If someone in your home suffers from allergies or respiratory problems, or if you have pets in the house, the Health Shield filter is a great option.

The denser filter surface means that Health Shield filters will get dirtier faster (because they're capturing so many more particles), and will need to be changed more frequently. In return, you will be rewarded with the reassurance of sustained, super-fresh indoor air quality similar to hospital standards.

If you're a property manager looking to offer a fully managed, high-quality filter delivery service to your residents, look no further. Talk to a member of our team today to learn how to get started.