Are Disposable Heat Pump Filters Better Than Washable Filters?
Are Disposable Heat Pump Filters Better Than Washable Filters?
Disposable heat pump filters offer superior filtration with better protection against fine particles. While they are technically better, they may be less convenient depending on your needs.
Learn about the difference between washable and disposable heat pump and air conditioning filters with Soundview HVAC, your trusted heating and cooling contractor in Suffolk County.
Disposable and Washable Heat Pump Filter Comparison
Disposable and washable filters are designed to clean the air passing through your heat pump, but they work in slightly different ways.
|
Disposable Filter |
Washable Filter |
|
High filtration, can trap fine particles like pollen, smoke, and bacteria. |
Better at filtering large dust particles. Minimal protection against microscopic particles. |
|
Reduced airflow as the filter gets dirty. |
High airflow. |
|
Easy to replace, takes minutes. |
Requires washing, rinsing, and air drying. Must be dried completely to prevent coil mold. |
|
Low cost per unit. |
Higher cost per unit. |
|
Costs more over time. |
Pays for itself within 1 – 2 years. |
|
Least environmentally friendly. |
Sustainable and reusable for up to 10 years. |
The trade-off between disposable and washable heat pump filters is mostly convenience, with a little performance mixed in.
- Choose disposable filters if you want the best convenience with excellent filtration. If your home has a lot of surrounding trees and flower gardens, you will appreciate the additional fine particle filtration. You will pay a little more over time, but disposable filters generally range in price from $10, $20, and generally last about 3 months.
- Choose washable filters if your home is largely free of dust and you want the most sustainable option. You will produce less waste with a washable filter, and you will spend less on heat pump maintenance.
HVAC manufacturers typically recommend a specific type of filter, so be sure to check for any warranty information related to third-party filters. If your system supports both types, your user manual will indicate a specific model code for disposable replacements.
The Bottom Line: Which Type of Heat Pump Filter Should You Choose
If you want your heat pump to work exactly as the manufacturer intended, stick to the type of filter that your system came with. Whether that’s disposable or washable, it will be perfectly calibrated to the unit’s expected airflow.
Most mini-split systems are designed for washable filters. They use an electrostatic mesh to capture large dust particles and debris.
If your system uses both, choose a washable filter for savings or a disposable filter for convenience.
Heat Pump Maintenance Done the Easy Way
Replacing or washing a filter every three months is the most basic heat pump maintenance you can perform, but it’s not everything that your system needs.
Comprehensive seasonal HVAC maintenance (every six months) includes filter replacement or cleaning, outdoor unit cleaning, electrical tests, calibration, thermostat setting, and even lubrication of moving parts. Manufacturer warranties require professional maintenance with a licensed HVAC contractor. If you go the DIY route, you could lose your warranty benefits.
The best way to keep your system clean and efficient is to call a Suffolk County HVAC contractor every Spring and Fall, or, better yet, join a scheduled HVAC maintenance program. Scheduled maintenance eliminates the guesswork and ensures that your system is in pristine condition with the right air filter.
Need help with your central or mini-split heat pump system? Book a cleaning or seasonal tune-up service with Soundview HVAC by calling us at 631-209-1744 or requesting an appointment online.
