The answer to 'difference between air filter and' is that air filters and air cleaners serve different purposes in HVAC systems. Air filters are designed to trap dust, dirt, and other airborne particles to keep them from circulating through your home, while air cleaners use specialized technology to actively remove pollutants and improve indoor air quality.
Air filters come in a variety of sizes and efficiencies, and need to be changed regularly (typically every 1-3 months) to maintain their effectiveness. Air cleaners, on the other hand, can use technologies like HEPA filtration, UV light, or ionization to capture even smaller particles and provide more comprehensive air purification. Air cleaners generally require less frequent maintenance but may have higher upfront costs.