Author Archives: Trevor Povey

  1. Air Filter Maintenance Guide

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    Air filters are often “out of sight, out of mind”, however many users do not realise the enormous cost savings that are achievable through air filtration optimisation, including appropriate maintenance.

    Maintaining your air filters is essential to ensure smooth performance of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.

    1. Check the filters regularly
    It is important to check your filters regularly to ensure that they are not clogged with dirt and debris. Whilst visual checks can be beneficial in spotting any air bypass or incorrect fitment, because the air filters are removing particulate that is invisible to the naked eye, differential pressure should be monitored using manometers, magnehelic gauges, or similar. The differential pressure is the best way to determine when a filter is approaching the end of its economical service life.

    2. Replace dirty filters
    Dirty filters can reduce the airflow in your system, leading to higher energy costs and reduced air delivery. Once your filters reach the end of their service life they should be replaced as soon as possible. Westbury can provide guidance for users on optimum change-out points as well as additional support on responsible and compliant disposal of waste filters. You can read more about Westbury’s licensed waste disposal services here.

    3. Choose the right filter(s)
    Choosing the right filters for your system is essential for maintaining optimal performance. Not only should filter selection be appropriate for delivering the quality of air needed in your application, but also bear in mind that filters protect and prolong the service life of many other components in the ventilation system such as coils, dampers & ductwork. You can read more on selecting the right filter for your application here.

    4. Schedule routine maintenance
    Routine maintenance is essential for ensuring the correct performance of your HVAC system and maximising the longevity of its components. Visual inspections should be carried out in conjunction with regular monitoring to spot any issues that need attention. You can read more about Westbury’s on site services including filter fitting, equipment servicing and ensuring regulatory compliance here.


    Appropriate maintenance is critical in allowing your HVAC assets to perform at their best. A filter is always a small part of a larger system, but filters are a key component in providing protection for people and processes as well as offering straightforward opportunities for reducing costs and extending the service life of the whole HVAC system.

  2. Energy Saving Through Air Filtration Optimisation

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    Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems play a critical role in maintaining indoor air quality and thermal comfort. However, HVAC systems also account for a significant consumption of energy in many buildings. One way to reduce energy consumption and improve the efficiency of HVAC systems is by optimising the air filtration used in such systems.

    How HVAC air filtration systems work

    Air filters are an essential component of HVAC systems, performing a crucial role in protecting people and processes by removing pollutants such as dust, pollen and bacteria from the air. However, any air filter(s) will also create a resistance to the air flowing through the system, which increases the energy consumption of HVAC systems. The higher the resistance, the more energy is required to move air through the system. Therefore, it is vital to select air filters that provide an appropriate filtration efficiency whilst also minimising resistance to airflow.

    Optimising Air Filtration for Energy Efficiency

    There are several ways to optimise air filtration and reduce energy consumption in HVAC systems:

    Choosing the Right HVAC Air Filters

    The selection of air filters should be based on the needs of each application. A higher efficiency filter will provide better air quality, but it will also create higher resistance to airflow and increase energy consumption. It is essential to select air filters with the right balance of filtration efficiency and resistance. You can read more on selecting the right filter for your application in our guide to air filter selection.

    Regular Maintenance and Replacement

    The dirtier a filter becomes, the more resistance to airflow increases and the more energy consumption rises. It is crucial to maintain and replace air filters regularly to ensure that they perform at their best. Regular maintenance can help to reduce airflow resistance, improve air flow, and reduce energy consumption. You can read more on appropriate air filter maintenance.

    Consider HVAC Air Filtration Retrofitting

    Air filter retrofitting involves replacing existing filters with filters that have a lower resistance to airflow. In many cases this is straightforward and will deliver improved air quality, whilst drastically reducing energy consumption and allowing more air to be delivered through the system. Retrofitting can also help to extend the life of HVAC systems and reduce maintenance costs. Discover the transformative benefits of air filter upgrades.

    Optimisation of air filtration is a highly effective way to reduce energy consumption and improve the efficiency of HVAC systems. A combination of correct selection, appropriate maintenance and consideration of filtration improvements can all combine to deliver reduced energy consumption. In this way building owners can save money on energy costs, reduce carbon emissions and improve the overall sustainability of their buildings.

    Contact Westbury for Your Free Energy Consumption Assessment

    Ready to enhance your HVAC energy efficiency? Contact Westbury today to discuss getting started with your FREE energy consumption assessment and discuss how optimised air filtration can save you money, reduce your carbon footprint, and enhance your building’s sustainability.