Insulation: What's The Difference Between Cellulose And Fiberglass?

Choosing between cellulose and fiberglass insulation remains a hotly debated topic among homeowners, considering that these two are very common and affordable insulation options. Both materials have advantages and limitations, so let's take a look at the main differences to determine which type works best for your home and why. CompositionCellulose is made from shredded recycled paper mixed with chemicals to bind the fibers together and reduce the flammability of the material. Fiberglass, on the other hand, is made from recycled glass and sand.Fire Resistance When exposed to high temperatures, fiberglass will melt but will not catch fire. Cellulose, while made of paper, is treated with fire retardants to prevent combustion. However, these chemicals could leach out over time and decrease the material's ability to resist fire.SettlingFiberglass rolls and batts do not have settling issues. The loose-fill type, however, will settle slightly over time, although the settling is negligible. Cellulose material, on the other hand, can settle by as much as 20 percent, thus affecting the final thickness of the material and requiring an additional layer.Low Temperature PerformanceFiberglass loses heat more quickly than cellulose and often registers a lower R-value in cold weather.MoistureWater is used for installing cellulose insulation, so vapor retarders are added. It has to be completely dry before the wall cavity is closed up. Otherwise, the material will absorb moisture and become susceptible to rotting. Fiberglass does not have this issue.InstallationMost DIY projects involve fiberglass because it is easy to cut and install. It does, however, require careful, meticulous attention to install properly, which takes time. With cellulose, however, the process is quicker provided you have an insulation blower and you are not likely to do a sloppy job.So which type of insulation is right for you? Let our technicians at Air Assurance  help you decide. We have been providing top quality products and services to our clients in Broken Arrow for nearly 30 years. We can work with you to identify the best solutions for your needs.Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Image courtesy of Shutterstock

What Kind of AC Filter Material Is Best for Your Unit?

When looking for the best air filter for your home, you'll need to choose between different AC filter materials. The best AC filter material will depend on your needs and priorities. Read on to learn more about the materials available.

Fiberglass Filters

These consist of fibers or strands of fiberglass spread out over a cardboard or metal frame. The fiberglass forms the barrier for capturing harmful particles. These filters are made for single use. With regard to MERV ratings, these filters are on the lower end. Nevertheless, they are popular because of their low cost.

Pleated Air Filters

Pleated filters are similar to fiberglass air filters. However, they typically use polyester cloth to do the filtration. They're also more capable of preventing dust from flowing into a room. This AC filter material is in a shape that resembles an accordion, giving pleated filters a larger surface area for filtration than flat filters. The surface area also offers less resistance to airflow and makes the filters last longer.

Reusable Cloth-Based Filters

You can use washable cloth-based filters for some time, wash them, and then reuse them. They're relatively cheap and are best suited for low-intensity use. Because their MERV rating is usually low, you should avoid using them in a high-pollutant environment.

It's recommended that you wash these filters every two weeks. Be sure to let them dry thoroughly before reusing them to prevent mold growth.

HEPA Filters

HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters have glass fibers twisted and turned to form a microscopic fibrous maze. Due to their unique design, the fibers capture particles in a variety of ways, including via:

• Direct impaction

• Interception

• Sieving

• Diffusion

HEPA filters have a high MERV rating. Because of their high costs and installation requirements, they're usually only suitable for homes with people who have specific needs, which may be due to allergies, asthma, and other illnesses.

Cleanliness is crucial to the proper functioning of air filters, so ensure that you clean or replace yours regularly. For more information on AC filter material, contact Air Assurance. We've served the home-comfort needs of Broken Arrowhomeowners since 1985.

Which Kind of Ductwork Material Should You Use for Your HVAC System?

Your ductwork plays the critical role of directing heated or cooled air from your HVAC system to different parts of your home. It's also the channel through which air is returned to your furnace or air handler to be treated. You can choose between different ductwork materials, with each having its own perks and quirks. Let's explore the different types of ductwork material to help you identify the best one for your heating and cooling needs.

Sheet Metal

This type of ductwork is made of aluminum or galvanized steel. It's very durable, and its nonporous surface makes it the least likely to develop biological growth. The smooth interior surface usually traps particles like dust. If you choose sheet metal for your home, it's advisable to have the ducts cleaned by a professional occasionally to maintain good indoor air quality.

Fiberglass

Some sheet metal ducts have an internal or external fiberglass lining to insulate against heat loss. The lining lowers the HVAC system's sound, making it a popular option for offices and commercial buildings. With a sealed interior lining, the fiberglass ducts will need intense cleaning, which can reduce durability. Fiberglass ductwork can also be contaminated with mold and bacteria.

Fiberboard

Fiberboard ductwork is usually the most inexpensive ductwork system to install. It's constructed with resin-bonded fiberglass strands. The exterior has foil that serves as a water retarder and air barrier. The strands make the interior textured. Consequently, the crevices can trap dust and debris, posing an indoor air-quality concern. The rough surface can affect airflow and efficiency.

Flexible Ducts

Flexible ducts comprise a steel spring coil encapsulated in thick plastic. They're lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to install. Their flexibility makes them ideal for installation in tight spaces that can't accommodate rigid ductwork. Flexible ducts have inner ribs that cause more airflow restriction than sheet metal ducts.

Kinks, turns, and bends should be minimized during flexible duct installation, as they can hurt HVAC performance. Therefore, it's essential to work with a quality HVAC installer. Flexible ductwork is good for indoor air quality.

The best ductwork material for your home will depend on its overall design and your specific circumstances, such as the need for noise reduction or heat retention, as well as your budget. An experienced HVAC professional can give you proper guidance on ductwork material. Contact Air Assurance if you need assistance with any HVAC-related issues in the Broken Arrow area.