What is the main purpose of measuring pressure drop across a filter?

The main purpose of measuring pressure drop across a filter is to evaluate energy efficiency. When air passes through a filter, it encounters resistance, which is reflected as a pressure drop. A higher pressure drop indicates that the filter is restricting airflow more than it should, often leading to increased energy consumption by the HVAC system to maintain desired airflow rates. By monitoring the pressure drop, one can assess how efficiently the filter is operating and whether it is contributing to increased energy costs.

Maintaining an optimal pressure drop is crucial for energy efficiency, as a filter that is too restrictive can cause the system to work harder, ultimately leading to higher operating costs and potentially affecting the lifespan of the HVAC components. This is why regular measurement of pressure drop is essential for both performance and energy consumption analysis.