How to choose and replace cabin filters

Dust, soot, rubber particles, abrasive substances, ozone, nitrogen oxides, sulfur and carbon dioxide gases, benzene and, in spring and summer, plant pollen enter the car through the ventilation openings together with the air. Due to the enclosed space, the concentration of these substances in the passenger compartment can be many times higher than outdoors. Breathing in polluted air can strain the lungs and cause allergic reactions. Cabin or pollen filters are designed to solve this problem. Here are our tips for choosing a quality filter that's right for your car.

Why timely replacement is important

A pollen filter is a consumable part, so it should be replaced regularly. It is recommended to replace it at least once a year or every 15,000 km. If you live in a big city and are often stuck in traffic or, conversely, if you mostly drive on dusty country roads, you may need to replace it more often.

A dirty filter can reduce the efficiency of air conditioning, heating and ventilation systems , as the filter's resistance to airflow increases due to accumulated dirt. The windows fog up heavily in rainy weather, and over time even pathogenic bacteria and mold grow on the surface of the filter elements.

Sometimes the filter element deforms and the air flow bypasses it, causing all the impurities to enter the passenger compartment.

Different types of cabin filters

 These are the following types nowadays popular: 

1. Conventional notch filter.These are dust catchers. They are made of special paper or synthetic fibers. They usually consist of a few layers. Each one is designed to capture particles of a specific size. It should be noted that use of synthetic fibers as the filter material is preferred because they can ensure efficient cleaning without resistance to airflow. In high-quality filters, one of the layers can use an electrostatic charge, which allows the fibers to capture even the smallest dust particles.
2. With absorbent layers. Each of these layers has a textile base with activated carbon granules of up to 0.5 mm. The granules have a porous surface that absorbs molecules of toxic substances that can get into the car with the air. Such filters are more expensive, but ensure a finer cleaning. They also neutralize unpleasant odours.
3. With an antibacterial layer. This layer consists of bactericidal material, mostly polyphenol. It binds and neutralizes bacteria and allergens and inhibits mold growth by orders of magnitude. These parts are the most expensive because they guarantee maximum protection.

Four_tips from CarTipsandmore to choose and use cabin filters

1. Opt for products from well-known manufacturers. We recommend Mann-Filter, Bosch, Mahle Original, Stark Automotive, Knecht, K&N and Ridex. Inferior parts use less material to manufacture the filter layers, which in turn results in poorer air purification. Inferior filters may even have a fake carbon filter, which is actually just a conventional dust filter with a black colored layer.
2. Check the condition of the pollen filter if you notice any of the following situations:
   1. an unpleasant smell inside the vehicle;
   2. if it is cold in the car even with the heating on or hot with the air conditioning on;
   3. Dust begins to collect on the dashboard.
3. Choose the product in exact accordance with the specifications of your vehicle. It is impossible to install components larger than required. Parts smaller than standard allow unfiltered air to enter the passenger compartment.
4. When installing the filter, make sure it is in the correct orientation. The airflow direction should be marked on the side of the part, which is especially important for carbon and anti-allergy filters.

Conclusion

The pollen filter has no direct influence on the operation of the most important vehicle systems and assemblies, such as e.g. engine or transmission. Therefore, some motorists do not replace him in time. This can lead to a health hazard. High quality components are able to capture up to 99% of dust and allergens. Therefore you should not save at the wrong end with this part. By following our simple tips, you will ensure a comfortable and safe vehicle interior for the long term.