Yes, you heard that right “Your car breathes”, just like we all do. It takes in air and it breathes out, well, exhaust. But just as air, particularly the oxygen it contains, is one of the most important substances sustaining life in your body, it’s also one of the most important substances sustaining life in your car.
Best Cabin Air Filter Review
Now! We are going to discuss in detail CABIN AIR FILTERS. Why use them? What are the functions and benefits? What are their Key Features? How to choose the best filter for your cabin? & many more all related to your CAR’s Cabin and HVAC (Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning System).
WHY Are They So Important?
Among other filters, CABIN AIR FILTERS are responsible for cleaning the air that enters a car’s cabin. Now let’s take a moment and think of a time when you had to deal with dust, bad smell of exhaust fumes. It all happens due to a clogged cabin air filter that you forgot/neglect to change. Next time if you deal with such an issue consider replacing your Cabin Air Filter. Now for that, you have to keep reading this article.
Benefits of Cabin Air Filters
- Prevents dust, moisture, small bugs, dirt, exhaust fumes, etc. to enter the cabin of your car.
- Filters the air that enters your car through HVAC (Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning System).
- Prevents different allergies by blocking pollens, dust, and other fumes from entering the cabin.
- Helps to protect interior and gadgets from wearing out by keeping the cabin clean.
Key Features To Look For In A Car Cabin Air Filter
Below is the list of main key features which one should consider every time you replace your cabin air filter:
Compatibility:
Each car model is designed uniquely so if a brand claims that the Cabin air filter is Universal and fits all models, it’s almost a myth and not necessarily true. Always check if Air filter is compatible with your car.
Safety:
Cabin air filters are designed to block dust particles, exhaust fumes, pollens, bugs, and other foul odors from entering the cabin. If a person is sensitive to pungent odors or has any sort of dust allergies then these are best to avoid such issues.
Durability:
While some cabin air filters need to be changed after 12 months or 12,000 miles, others can last for even longer.
Driving Conditions:
If you commute through an urban environment plagued by pollution on regular basis then you should consider a HEPA-rated filter. In case you don’t travel frequently and have a clean environment around then any average filter is good to go.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST CAR CABIN AIR FILTER
Before selecting a new cabin air filter, one should know about the different types of filters available to choose from. Let’s move towards different types of Cabin filters from which you can choose one that is compatible with your ride.
Types of Cabin Air Filters:
If it’s the time to change your Cabin Air filter then you should know about the following types as all filters do not perform in the same way.
1. Charcoal Cabin Air Filters
- Charcoal cabin air filters block dust and debris and also absorbs exhaust fumes and unpleasant odors.
- For the best results, these filters should be changed once per year or every 15,000 miles.
2. Activated Carbon Cabin Air Filters
- Activated carbon filters are almost similar to charcoal cabin air filters with the additional quality of absorbing airborne contaminants that pass through your car’s ventilation system.
3. Particle Cabin Air Filters
- Particle cabin filters block tiny particles before they enter your car cabin. These filters are ideal for filtering out pollen, dust, smoke, mold spores, bugs, insects, and other small particles.
4. Electrostatic Cabin Air Filters
- Each layer of an electrostatic cabin air filter is electrostatically charged it helps in blocking ultra-fine particles, including cigarette smoke, exhaust fumes, mold spores, bacteria, and diesel carbon.
5. HEPA Cabin Air Filters
- HEPA stands for High-Efficiency Particulate Air. These filters provide a filtration efficiency rate of 7% at 0.3
- HEPA Cabin Air Filters designed to trap microscopic pollutants including pollen, mold, and common allergens
- Melt-blown electrostatic layer providing very dense media
- Structural ribs provide additional stability and durability.
WHEN TO CHANGE CABIN AIR FILTER
The air flowing into the cabin through the air conditioning system when a vehicle is moving is about 5 times more contaminated with exhaust gases, pollutants, and allergens than the air on the side of the road. Cabin air filters ensure that drivers and passengers in vehicles breathe in as little as possible of this contaminated air.
To best protect against these dangers your cabin air filter needs to be changed regularly. Over its life cycle, a cabin air filter is constantly absorbing dirt particles. With increased contamination, its efficiency decreases and it can no longer fulfill its filtration.
To ensure clean air in the cabin and protect against invisible dangers when driving, it is necessary to change the cabin air filter at intervals of at least every 12,000 miles or 1x per year.
CAR CABIN AIR FILTER FAQ
Really curious about what a cabin air filter does? How often your car’s cabin air filter should be replaced? This brief FAQ will answer the most commonly asked questions about cabin air filters.
What Does a Cabin Air Filter Do?
Your car’s cabin air filter cleans the air that comes through your car’s HVAC (Heating Ventilation and Air-conditioning System) is designed to catch dust, pollen, and other airborne material.
Do All Cars Have a Cabin Air Filter?
A majority of cars come standard with a cabin air filter. If you’re unsure if your vehicle has a cabin air filter, check your owner’s manual.
How Often Should I Change the Cabin Air Filter in My Car?
Most of the Cabin Air filter comes with step- to – step guidelines which makes it simple to change them at home. Typically, though, manufacturers recommend changing the cabin air filter in your car every 12,000 or 15,000 miles.
Does a Mechanic Have to Change the Cabin Air Filter?
Well, that depends, if you are a new user then you might need a mechanic otherwise musty odor and decreased airflow is a good indicator that you need to change the Air filters. Changing your cabin air filter can save you both time and money. Rather than waiting at the mechanic and wasting a ton of money to change the cabin air filter.
How do I Change the Cabin Air Filter in My Car?
First, figure out where your cabin air filter is. Most are located behind the glove compartment, or beneath the windshield. Changing your car cabin air filter doesn’t require many tools, and can be done quickly.
Does the Cabin Air Filter Affect My Car’s AC?
Of course! That’s why it’s so essential to change your cabin air filter regularly. If your car’s filtration system is clogged, it will lead to a lack of airflow. For maximum airflow and better ventilation, change your cabin air filter regularly.
Take care of your Car’s Respiratory system (HVAC).
After reading this detailed article now you have all the essential knowledge of what a cabin air filter is, why it’s essential, and how often you should be replacing the one in your car. Now you just need to check the compatibility of your car and be confident while selecting the filter of your choice & be healthy and enjoy a fresh ride.
