Absolutely nothing! These terms can be used interchangeably, but they refer to the exact same thing.

The HealthSmart Filter is our proprietary, high-efficiency furnace filter frame, which utilizes our patented Leak-Guard Seal to ensure the highest level of air filtration. Once installed, this unique design will transform the quality of the air you breathe. You can learn more here.

You can purchase HealthSmart air filters through your air conditioning contractor or online. Click here to find an Air Sponge filter dealer near you.

These are the four high-efficiency air filter media inserts that we offer, which you will use along with your HealthSmart filter frame. Click here for more information about our media inserts.

All of our media types are high-efficiency and high-quality. One is not ranked better than another. However, depending on your needs, one type may be better suited for YOU than the others. For example, if you suffer from allergies or have a lot of smoke in your home, you would probably want to purchase the MicroSponge media type. If you are someone who doesn’t have allergies and just wants a high-efficiency air filter to capture the typical household dust and debris, you would probably want to purchase the BioSponge or BioSponge Plus media type. Additional factors also play a role in this decision, such as your environment and how often you prefer to change your air filter.

Our filters range from MERV 7 to MERV 14.

The size listed on your cardboard or plastic air filter is typically the nominal size, which is not the actual size of your filter. Furnace filters are often 1/2 inch smaller than their nominal size listed. To ensure you order the correct size filter, you can take measurements of your existing filter if it fits easily in your AC unit. If your current air filter does not fit correctly, we recommend taking measurements directly from your AC unit using a measuring tape. You will want to measure from metal edge to metal edge and then subtract 1/4 to 3/8 of an inch from the length and width.

The aluminum filter frame is permanent, and you will continue to reuse this for the life of your AC unit. The filter material that is used with the frame is disposable and should be replaced every 30-90 days, depending on the type of material you select.

No, the filter inserts can not be washed. This would create a breeding ground for mold and bacteria. The filter material is meant to be thrown away and replaced every 30-90 days of use (depending on the media type you choose). You can maintain your frame with a damp cloth so you do not damage the gasket on the frame.

Air bypass is a common issue with most air filters on the market. To ensure that 100% of your air is being filtered, the HealthSmart air filter features a patented Leak-Guard seal. How it works is simple - your air conditioner turns on, which creates a pressure difference. This pressure difference creates an air-tight seal between your air filter and AC unit, eliminating bypass. You can finally breathe again knowing your air quality has never been better.

Activated carbon filters are a popular method for eliminating gases from the air. They utilize millions of small pores on the filter's surface to trap and remove gases and odors. These filters are ideal for removing common household odors such as cooking smells, cigarette smoke, and more.

In contrast, Zeolite filters are composed of a micro-porous natural mineral that has been fused with polyester. They are particularly effective in removing Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and gases, and excel at eliminating odors such as pet urine and ammonia.

Odor media is optional, not required.

The BioSponge and BioSponge Plus material has writing across one side of the filter. This will be facing you when you place the material into the frame. The pleated refills (MicroSponge and BioPleat) will have the wire backing against the mesh of the frame, and the white pleat will be facing you. For videos on how to insert your air filter refills, click here.

Filter refills last between 30-90 days, depending on the media you choose. A furnace filter left past its effective replacement time can become clogged by trapped dust and debris. As a result, this will restrict airflow, leading to furnace damage. To prevent this, make sure you replace your filter regularly.

Click here to learn more about the different filter media types.

You can use any household cleaner (like Windex or a Clorox wipe) to clean the screen. If using a spray like Windex, just spray it on, let it sit for 5 minutes, and rinse it off. If using a Clorox wipe, simply wipe it down. You can also lightly brush the screen if necessary.

No! These filters are sometimes referred to in the industry as "non-filters." Yes, they will trap some airborne particulate, but not as much as genuine HealthSmart filters.

Yes. We guarantee our AC filters and furnace filters for ten years from the date of purchase.