A typical furnace filter consists of many interwoven fibers layered in random directions. When looking for a replacement filter, you’ll likely come across the words “MERV” and “HEPA”. If you’re like most homeowners, you’ll assume that the one with the higher number equals better protection against foreign elements. While this may be true in most cases, this type of filter isn’t always ideal for your home, depending on what type of HVAC system you have.
You might wonder what these terms mean and the role they play in maintaining good indoor air quality. As a trusted installer with excellent ductless air conditioner reviews, Albert Air explains what you need to know about MERV and HEPA filters below.
MERV Ratings
Finer filtration is an important characteristic to look for when choosing a replacement air filter for your home. MERV, or minimum efficiency reporting value, is the rating given to all filters. Many HVAC companies and distributors offer filters with a MERV rating between 1 and 20. This rating details how effectively filters remove particles and allergens like dust, pet dander and pollen from the air.
HEPA Filters
HEPA filters are usually highly recommended when it comes to HVAC air filters. They can trap airborne contaminants that are as small as 0.3 microns in diameter. To give you a better idea of how small this is, the average strand of hair on your head is about 45 microns.
However, HEPA filters also typically require an additional fan to filter the air. To determine whether your HVAC system needs to be compatible with a HEPA filter, it should be checked by a professional technician. OTherwise, it won’t operate effectively or efficiently since it has to be able to generate enough power to move air through the filter. This results in additional strain which can affect other components of your system, such as the motor fan and the Carrier® evaporator coil. This also increases your energy bills in the long run.
Choosing What’s Best for Your Home
Filters with high ratings can easily remove biological growth, car fumes and smoke. They’re effective at eliminating airborne particles and are extremely energy-efficient. As such, we recommend choosing a filter of at least MERV 9 or above for your home. which will have at least 85% efficiency against finer particles like dust mites, pet dander, mold, pollen and spores. However, if you have asthma or if your child is suffering from a respiratory illness, consider a MERV 13 filter or above. A filter with a high MERV rating is usually best for homes with allergy and asthma sufferers.
When searching online for “ductless air conditioner installers near me”, look no further than Albert Air. Call us at (714) 526-6368 or fill out our convenient online request form to get started!
