Pressure Drop: What You Need to Know

When it comes to air filters, pressure drop is a crucial factor to consider. Simply put, pressure drop is the difference in air pressure between the clean and dirty sides of the filter, caused by the resistance encountered. The lower the drop, the more efficiently air can flow, ensuring cleaner indoor air.

Types of Air Filters

There are various types of air filters commonly used in ventilation systems and each has specific applications and performance characteristics.

MVHR Filters:

These are commonly found in heat recovery systems, ensuring the exchange of heat while maintaining ventilation. They typically have a moderate drop due to their design for continuous airflow.

Panel Filters:

Panel filters are commonly used in residential and commercial HVAC systems. They offer reasonable filtration efficiency with a moderate to low drop.

Bag Filters:

Bag filters are commonly found in industrial settings, providing higher filtration efficiency at the expense of a higher drop.

HEPA Filters:

Renowned for their exceptional filtration efficiency, HEPA filters are used in environments that require the removal of tiny particles. However, they do have a higher drop.

Factors Affecting Pressure Drop

Several factors influence the pressure drop in air filters:

• Filter Material: The type and thickness of the filter media significantly impact the drop.
• Filter Pleating: Pleated filters have more surface area, which can reduce drop.
• Contaminant Loading: As air filters trap particles, the drop increases. Regular maintenance is crucial.
• Air Velocity: Higher airflow rates can lead to increased drop.

The Consequences

Allowing the pressure drop to get too high, either by using the wrong filter or neglecting a dirty one, could have severe consequences. The airflow might halt, increasing the fan’s workload and potentially causing damage. Additionally, high drop can destroy the filter, releasing debris into the ventilation system and jeopardising indoor air quality. Regular filter maintenance is crucial to prevent such issues.

Energy Consumption

Studies have shown that high-pressure drop filters can cause a significant increase in energy consumption of HVAC systems. On the other hand, using filters with lower drop has led to energy savings.

In Summary…

Pressure drop is a vital consideration when selecting air filters for any environment. Understanding the different types of filters and their pressure drop empowers you to make informed decisions for optimal energy efficiency. Regular maintenance and careful selection will keep your system performing at its best, promoting a healthier living or working environment.