In the US, air filters are capable of eliminating at least 99.97% of allergens and contaminants from the air, including mold spores and dust as small as 0.3 microns. To measure filter efficiency, experts use the minimum efficiency notification value (MERV). The MERV is a graph that classifies filters according to their ability to capture particles. The rating ranges from 1 to 16, and 16 are awarded to the types of air filters with the best filtering capacity. The MERV ratings for different types of filters vary depending on their quality and the manufacturer.
It's always mentioned on the package. Despite their popularity, these filters don't contribute much to indoor air quality. They can only filter about 20% of particles that are between 3.0 and 10.0 microns in size. Particles of this size only include dust, carpet fibers, and pollen. A quick search and you'll quickly realize that there are more HVAC air filters in more sizes than anyone could test.
The Home Depot also offers a full range of air filter accessories, making it easy to keep your system running at peak performance. We think the manufacturers' concerns are a bit cautious, in part because a recent innovation in air filters allows for high MERV ratings (11 to 1) with a low pressure drop. This Aerostar MERV 13 air filter has a pleated design made of 100% synthetic electrostatic material, giving it high efficiency and, at the same time, low air resistance, resulting in quieter air exchange. Using wet filters can cause mold and bacteria to accumulate, which will reduce indoor air quality. In addition, an extensive, frequently cited independent test of the effects of MERV filters from 8 to 13 on air flow and HVAC energy consumption (an indicator of equipment performance) concluded that, even “if measures are not taken for the greatest pressure drop of high-MERV filters, the air flow and energy penalties are unlikely to be serious, at least until the filter is full of dirt. Fibreglass, polyester, washable, pleated and electrostatic filters all offer different air filtering capabilities.
The air flowing around it means that the filter doesn't fit snugly and therefore doesn't work efficiently. While a HEPA filter is 98 percent effective at removing contaminants from the air, it's not practical for use in most homes. Air filters also help keep boiler coils and heat exchangers clean, which can extend the life of the furnace and keep it operating efficiently. Experts recommend that people living in industrial areas or with a weak immune system opt for multimedia filters instead of other types of air conditioning filters. With V-pleats that allow for a larger surface area and plenty of infused baking soda, you can expect this tough Flanders filter to remove odors from the air while reducing pollen and other allergens. The primary function of air filters for heating, ventilation and air conditioning is to remove harmful particles from the air as it flows through the system. If your HVAC system uses a thicker filter (typically 4 to 5 inches and usually mounted on the air handler), it's likely designed specifically for medium-efficiency MERV filtration.
A fiberglass filter usually removes only about 10 percent of pollen, dust mites, mold spores, pet dander, and other airborne particles. When it comes to choosing an effective type of air filter for your home or business, there are several factors to consider. The most important factor is MERV rating - this rating will tell you how well a particular type of filter will perform when it comes to removing allergens and other contaminants from your indoor environment. The higher the MERV rating on an air filter, the better it will be at trapping small particles like dust mites, pet dander, pollen, mold spores and smoke particles. High-efficiency particulate arrestance (HEPA) filters have a MERV rating between 17-20 and are considered one of the most effective types of air filters available. For those who want an even higher level of filtration without sacrificing airflow or energy efficiency, multimedia filters may be a better option. These filters use multiple layers of media such as activated carbon or synthetic fibers to capture particles as small as 0.3 microns in size. No matter what type of filter you choose for your home or business, make sure you replace it regularly according to manufacturer's instructions in order to maintain optimal indoor air quality.
