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Data Center Air Filtration FAQ

1.  What types of air filters are best for Data Centers?

Data centers typically use MERV 13–16 or HEPA depending on risk and compliance. We offer V-cell, cartridge, nanofiber, and biodegradable options. MERV 8 and 11 are still used in some applications.


2.    Do data centers really need HEPA filters?

Not always. MERV 15/16 often balances protection and energy. Choose HEPA when very fine particulate control or strict specs are required.


3.   How do filters affect data center energy efficiency?

Filters with low differential pressure (ΔP) lower fan power and improve PUE; long-life media also reduces maintenance and changeouts.


4.  What are biodegradable filters, and why use them?

They use eco-friendly media and recyclable frames to cut landfill waste while maintaining airflow and efficiency—ideal for sustainability goals.


5.  Do Braden filters meet ASHRAE and ISO standards?

Yes—products align with ASHRAE guidelines for data centers and ISO 16890 classifications.


6.  Can Braden filters fit existing OEM housings?

Yes—OEM-compatible V-cell and cartridge sizes, plus custom options made in the USA.


7.  How do I know when a filter is clogged or past its life?

Track ΔP and trends; replace at your setpoint (e.g., 1.5–2.0 in. w.g. or site standard), or sooner if IAQ or airflow degrades.


8. Should I use washable or permanent filters in data centers?

Usually no for critical areas—washables can vary in efficiency and load dust. Use rated, high-efficiency disposables for predictable performance.


9.  How can I monitor particulate and gas contaminants?

Use particle counters, ΔP trends, corrosion coupons, and targeted gas sensors to align filter strategy with measured risk.


10. What are the 5 most common types of data center facilities?

Enterprise: a private data center facility that supports a single organization.

Multi-Tenant / Colocation: organizations lease space and equipment from these centers.

Hyperscale: may have up to 5,000 servers and 500 cabinets.

Edge / Micro: smaller centers built so computing happens closer to the actual data.

Container / Modular: used on construction sites or in disaster areas.

Cloud: Provide data storage, computing and application hosting services via the internet.


11.   What is the total cost of ownership (TCO) for filters?

TCO combines energy (ΔP), filter price, lifetime, labor, and disposal. Our low-ΔP, long-life media typically reduces TCO.


12.  What is ASHRAE Standard 241?

MERV 13A filters are tested according to ASHRAE 52.2 Appendix J, which includes dust loading to ensure filtration stability throughout the service life. They must maintain consistent efficiency without relying on electrostatic charge.


13. What defines a MERV 13A filter under this standard?

MERV 13A filters are tested according to ASHRAE 52.2 Appendix J, which includes dust loading to ensure filtration stability throughout the service life. They must maintain consistent efficiency without relying on electrostatic charge.


14.  Why are electrostatic filters no longer acceptable for BACT?

Electrostatic filters rely on a temporary electric charge to enhance particle capture, but this charge diminishes in use—resulting in efficiency loss. ASHRAE 241 requires mechanically efficient filters that perform predictably over time.


15.  What are the benefits of using nanofiber-based MERV 13A filters?

Braden Filtration’s nHIBIT™ Nanofiber MERV 13A filters provide high submicron efficiency with low pressure drop, leading to better airflow, energy savings, and fewer filter changes. They also offer consistent performance in dynamic HVAC environments.


16.  What is Nano Fiber used in this application?

Nano fibers are superior due to their extremely high surface area-to-volume ratio and excellent porosity. Nano fibers contain no PFAS chemicals

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17.  How does switching to MERV 13A affect energy use and HVAC load?

Properly selected MERV 13A  filters—especially those with nanofiber media—can reduce resistance and extend service life, mitigating energy consumption. Performance should be evaluated based on pressure drop and air handling unit compatibility.

 

More Questions???

Contact Braden at 913 617 5667 or by email at sales@bradenfiltration.com