Energy production costs—whether from fossil or renewable sources—have been steadily rising for many years. Global energy demand continues to grow, placing constant pressure on pricing, particularly for electricity. According to projections from the World Bank and the Energy Council, electricity demand is expected to continue increasing, at least at the current pace, for at least the next half-century. Air filtration and building ventilation come at a cost!
Controlling ventilation expenses through an air handling unit is a well-known approach. Fan motors and electronic equipment associated with air filtration systems must maintain a constant airflow regardless of differential pressure. The higher the power required to achieve this, the greater the energy consumption.
As an example, below is a summary performance table (source: General Filter) for industrial air filters—F9 efficiency multi-pocket filters (EN779:2012), or F9 filters.
| Range | Energy consumption (actually measured in our workshops) | Energy cost* | Approximate unit filter cost | Total operating cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENERGY SAVING range | 2 298 kWh | 310 € | 100 € | 410 € |
| standard rang | 4 583 kWh | 619 € | 70 € | 689 € |
| Economic range | 5 848 kWh | 789 € | 50 € | 839 € |
Air handling unit: a useful benchmark – 1 Pa = €2!
For a conventional air filtration system operating continuously, energy studies show that when pressure drop increases by 1 Pa (with constant airflow), the resulting energy cost generated by the air filter is €2.
It is easy to understand that a poorly adapted air filter can add 50 Pa or more of initial pressure drop compared to a well-designed filter, thereby increasing the annual energy bill by around €100.
So, the filter that initially appears to be the most economical actually becomes the most expensive in use.
What is the impact of air filters on total operating cost?
Life cycle cost studies of air handling units show that energy accounts for around 70% of overall operating costs. And we know that the energy consumption associated with the filter of an air handling unit is directly proportional to its average pressure drop.
Choosing the right air filter for your air handling unit helps save energy
Challenge your suppliers by comparing the initial pressure drop generated by air filters at your operating airflow.
Favour those certified EUROVENT, whose energy classification provides greater visibility in decision-making. In this case, all air filters can be rated from A+ to E (A+ indicating the lowest energy consumption and E the highest).
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