What type of media is used to filter odours from an HVAC system?

The use of activated carbon as a filtering medium in HVAC systems is particularly effective for odour control due to its unique properties. Activated carbon is made from carbon-rich materials that are processed to create a vast network of pores. This high porosity gives it a large surface area, allowing it to absorb and trap a wide range of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other odorous substances present in the air.

When air passes through a filter containing activated carbon, the odour-causing molecules adhere to the carbon surface, effectively removing them from the air stream. This makes activated carbon filters ideal for applications where controlling unpleasant smells is crucial, such as in kitchens, bathrooms, and areas with high occupancy or specific industrial processes.

Other filter types, like fiberglass and HEPA, primarily focus on particulate matter removal rather than odour elimination. Fiberglass filters are designed to catch larger dust particles, while HEPA filters are effective for capturing very small particulates but do not have the adsorptive properties needed to eliminate gases and odours. Ceramic filters, on the other hand, are mainly used for specific applications involving water filtration or in certain air cleaning technologies, but they lack the effectiveness of activated carbon for odour removal.